Lighting the Path of Hope: Scholarships Awarded to Children of Visually Impaired Parents
Bengaluru, May 25: A Carmelite NGO, Dhyana Jyothi Trust, has made a meaningful and compassionate impact in the lives of children of visually impaired parents—an embodiment of love and charity in action. Under the banner ‘Carmel Vision for the Future’, scholarships amounting to approximately ₹6 lakhs were awarded to 30 children on May 25, 2025, at the Maria Niketan High School hall in Bengaluru.
The programme began with a prayer service. Mrs. Nelly Prichardo, the coordinator, extended a warm welcome to the gathering. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Fr. Silvestre Dsouza, Provincial of the Karnataka-Goa Province. Fr. Ivan Dsouza, Director of the Dhyana Jyothi Trust, was also present.
In his address, Fr. Silvestre Dsouza highlighted the significant milestone of completing eleven years of service through the Scholarship Programme. He emphasized that providing education to the children of visually impaired parents is a noble Carmelite mission. Despite their blindness, these parents possess a deep desire to illuminate the future of their children. Recognizing this, the Carmelite priests—through the generous support of benefactors—have taken up this unique and vital initiative.
Mrs. Nelly Prichardo, the coordinator of ‘Carmel Vision for the Future’, shared her heartfelt thoughts:
“The parents of these children are not only visually impaired but also financially underprivileged. They struggle to afford even basic education for their children. However, these children are exceptionally talented and perform remarkably well in their studies. We believe it is our responsibility to extend a helping hand.”
She further explained that many of the parents suffer from total or partial blindness and face immense difficulty in earning a livelihood. Despite the academic excellence of their children, financial limitations often stand in the way of their education. Responding to this urgent need, Dhyana Jyothi Trust—a charitable organization run by Carmelite priests that also undertakes the printing of religious and social literature—has championed this cause. The Trust depends on the kindness of donors and sponsors, who become beacons of hope for these deserving young minds.
At the conclusion of the programme, Fr. Silvestre Dsouza expressed his gratitude to the current Director, Fr. Ivan Dsouza, and the former Directors, Fr. Stifan Pereira and Fr. Praveen Pinto, for their years of selfless service. He also extended heartfelt thanks to all the generous donors who continue to bless these children with opportunities, becoming true instruments of God’s mercy. Mrs. Nelly Prichardo also thanked benefactor Mr. Binoy Raphael for his invaluable support.
The event concluded with a fellowship meal shared by all.
The funds generated from the Bible Diary support this noble project. You can sponsor a page in the 2026 Bible Diary for just ₹1,000—or contribute more—towards the education of these children.
Bank Details for Contributions:
Account Name: Dhyana Jyothi Trust
Account Number: 0009053000018429
Bank Name: South Indian Bank, Cantonment Branch, Bangalore
IFSC Code: SIBL0000009
