An Awareness Workshop on Indian Civil Services was held on Sunday, 30 March 2025 at 9:00 AM in the Vamanjoor Church Hall. This informative and inspiring event was jointly organized by the Mangaluru Diocese and the Commission for Education of St Joseph the Worker Church, Vamanjoor. The programme was specially designed for students from Classes 7 to 9 and their parents, aiming to introduce them to the opportunities and process of joining the Indian Civil Services.
The program began with a prayer, invoking divine blessings for the success of the workshop and the aspirations of the participants. This was followed by a warm welcome and the traditional lighting of the lamp by Rt Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop, and the dignitaries, symbolizing the light of wisdom and the beginning of a new journey for the students.
The programme was presided over by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese, who delivered a thought-provoking presidential address. In his message, he encouraged the young participants to aim for a career in civil services, emphasizing the importance of integrity, commitment, and service to the nation. His blessings marked a significant spiritual and motivational start to the workshop. He appreciated the efforts of Rev. Fr Praveen Leo Lasrado, Secretary CBE and Commission for Education, Sr Mariette B.S., Mr Charles Pais and the members of ‘Preran’ – a group that has come forward to motivate children of the Diocese and also congratulated the Parish Priest for taking the initiative to inaugurate the maiden program of the Diocese at Vamanjoor parish.
The program was graced by V. Rev. Fr James D’Souza, Parish Priest of St Joseph the Worker Church, Vamanjoor and esteemed guests Rev. Fr Vincent D’Souza, Director of CODP; Rev. Sr Mariette B.S., II Councillor of Bethany Congregation; Rev. Fr Ivan Ashwin D’Souza, Assistant Parish Priest, Vamanjoor; Mr John D’Silva, Secretary of Mangalore Diocesan Pastoral Parishad; Mr M. P. Noronha, Advocate & former Secretary, Diocesan Pastoral Parishad; and Mr Luvi J Pinto, Entrepreneur & Member of the Executive Committee of Diocese Pastoral Parishad, Mrs Sheryl Prabhu, retired teacher, St Aloysius High School and Mrs Vijetha Pinky D’sa, former Civil Court Judge, whose presence added meaning and encouragement to the participants.
Mr Rohan Pereira, former Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Parishad, Vamanjoor, spoke ardently to the students and parents, encouraging them to consider serving the nation through civil services instead of seeking careers abroad. He further expressed his willingness to financially support to deserving students of Vamanjoor Parish, who are serious about preparing for civil service exams and aim to reach high positions in government service.
Following the formal inauguration, the first session of the workshop was conducted by Mr. Francis D’Cunha, Teacher, worked with Education for Excellence, who served as the resource person. He delivered an engaging and motivational session that inspired the participants to look at the civil services as a powerful platform to contribute to the nation. He shared real-life stories of renowned individuals who had served or presently serving in the Indian Civil Services and brought laurels through their integrity, leadership, and commitment to the public good. His words deeply resonated with the audience and instilled a strong sense of purpose and possibility.
The second session was led by Mr. Ronald Pinto, retired professor of Chemistry, St Aloysius College and a renowned Career Guidance Expert, who gave a detailed and informative presentation on the structure of the Indian Civil Services. He explained the various types of civil services available—such as IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS IFOS and many more—along with the examinations required, the range of positions offered, and the eligibility criteria for each. His clear and structured explanation helped demystify the process and provided the students with a practical roadmap to begin their preparation.
Finally, Mr. Patrick Dsa, Engineer, Expert in aptitude test, focused on the practical aspects of preparation. He spoke on how to prepare for the civil services examinations, shared a recommended list of books and study materials, and emphasized the importance of following a consistent study timetable. His advice provided students with a concrete plan of action and boosted their confidence to begin or continue their preparation effectively.
The programme was organized under the guidance of Rev. Fr Praveen Leo Lasrado, and the team of Mangalore Diocese. Mr Manoj Pereira, Secretary, Commission for Education, Vamanjoor Parish, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all the dignitaries, speakers, organizers, and attendees for making the event a success. Ms Rachana Crasta, a member of the Commission for Education Vamanjoor Parish, nicely hosted the programme. Around 160 students and their parents benefitted from the programme.
The inauguration, blessing, and sessions of the workshop were a great beginning to a journey of learning and motivation. It provided valuable information and encouragement to students and their families, planting seeds of hope and ambition toward a future in civil service.
