Outreach

After the recent trip to Maanvi, the next most enriching experience as part of the SJBHS Twinning Programme, was the outreach to Anekal. Due to the surge in the number of Covid-19 cases and Section 144 imposed for the same, a group of only 4 teachers led by Fr Joel Fernandes SJ and Brother Wilson visited the CIRW (Centre for Integral Rural Welfare) office at Anekal.

Fr Shantharaj SJ briefed the visitors on the different training programmes run by the Jesuits. The self – help groups, children’s club, tailoring classes and other such programmes held at Jnana Jyothi were spoken about. The beneficiaries were the villagers residing in and around Anekal. The Jesuits have been helping the villagers working in the brick factories by making them aware of their financial rights and the risk involved in terms of being associated with micro financers. CIRW has also been working towards empowering women by assisting them with tailoring classes thereby making them self- reliant. The halt at the Bala Jyothi Girl’s Hostel, run by the Jesuits but managed by the sisters, was an enriching experience. Though limited interaction was possible with the inmates of the hostel, hospitality and warmth was the hallmark of the visit.

The Outreach was an eye-opener. It revealed the immense contribution of the Jesuits to help rural society as well as a great insight into the lives, the hopes and the dreams of the youth, even those residing far away from the influence of city life!