From May 5th to May 29th, 2025, the Redemptorist Province of Bangalore conducted a vibrant and transformative Vocational Training Workshop for Rural Youth at Nava Spoorthi Kendra (NSK), Bengaluru, with the goal of empowering young people from underprivileged rural backgrounds through holistic education, skills development, and exposure to urban professional environments. The initiative organised by Frs. Sanjay Kujur, Johnson Jebanesar and Thambi Joseph, C.Ss.R., gathered 12 enthusiastic participants, each hailing from various rural districts across multiple Indian states, and brought them together in the spirit of learning, collaboration, and hope.
The inaugural ceremony of the workshop was marked by a spiritually uplifting celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Edward Joseph, C.Ss.R., the Provincial Superior of the Redemptorist Province of Bangalore. In his homily, Fr. Edward urged the young attendees to make the most of every moment during the workshop, encouraging them to approach their training not just as an academic pursuit, but as a formative journey in character building and personal growth. Following the Eucharist, he formally inaugurated the workshop, marking the beginning of a month-long journey of transformation.
A Holistic Training Experience
The workshop was designed to provide practical, market-relevant skills alongside foundational life skills that would help participants integrate effectively into a modern workforce. One of the cornerstones of the program was Spoken English, a vital skill for rural youth hoping to work or study in urban environments. The sessions were dynamic and engaging, led by a dedicated team of instructors: Mrs. Mira, Mrs. Odelia, Mrs. Hannah, Mr. Roshan, and Mr. Mark, who brought both professionalism and passion to their teaching. The participants practiced basic and intermediate English conversation, pronunciation, grammar, and confidence-building exercises, which significantly improved their verbal communication over the course of the month.
Another major offering was the Diploma in Computer Applications (DCA) course, which included modules in Typing, Tally, and essential computer operations. These classes were conducted in collaboration with the Mother of Perpetual Help Institute, Bengaluru, whose faculty worked patiently with the participants, many of whom were interacting with computers for the first time. Through hands-on sessions and continuous mentoring, the youth became more confident in using digital tools that are now indispensable in most career fields.
To further expand their skillsets and encourage creativity, participants were also taken on a guided visit to the Redemptorist Media Center, Bengaluru. There, they were introduced to basic media communication skills, including an overview of digital media tools, camera handling, content creation, and storytelling. The exposure to professional media works not only fascinated the young minds but also opened them to new avenues of vocational interest.
Exposure Trips: Learning Beyond the Classroom
Recognizing the importance of learning beyond the four walls of a classroom, the organizers of the workshop curated a series of educational and recreational excursions throughout Bengaluru and beyond. These excursions were intended to provide cultural exposure, stimulate curiosity, and reinforce the broader worldview necessary for well-rounded personal development.
In Bengaluru, participants visited landmarks like the Vidhana Soudha, where they witnessed the grandeur of the State’s legislative building and understood its functioning; the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, where interactive science exhibits sparked interest in technology and innovation; and Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens, which provided a refreshing encounter with nature’s beauty and biodiversity. Other highlights included Cubbon Park, the Snow City experience, and spiritual visits to St. Mary’s Basilica and the Infant Jesus Shrine, fostering a sense of peace and spiritual renewal.
One of the most memorable excursions was the weekend trip to Mysuru, a city steeped in history and culture. The youth explored tourist attractions like the Mysore Palace and were left inspired by the city’s blend of tradition and modernity. These trips encouraged interaction, team bonding, and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of the country.
Closure with Purpose and Reflection
As the workshop drew to a close on May 29th, a special Eucharistic celebration was held, led by Fr. John Mathew, C.Ss.R., Vicar Provincial of the Province, marking both a spiritual conclusion and a new beginning for the participants. In his homily, Fr. John reminded the youth of the importance of looking beyond outward appearances and focusing on the development of inner character and integrity. He urged them to take their newfound skills and channel them into becoming men and women of purpose, prepared to serve their communities with dignity, knowledge, and compassion.
His message echoed the underlying mission of the entire workshop: to awaken potential, instil confidence, and cultivate a future built on strong moral foundations, professional competence, and a deep sense of responsibility.
A Step Toward Empowerment
The Vocational Training Workshop at NSK was more than a technical course—it was a transformative experience. For many of the participants, it was their first time in a city, their first encounter with structured professional training, and their first exposure to the possibilities that lie ahead. They left not only with new skills and certificates bestowed on them by the Director of NSK, Fr. Francis Ezhanikatt, C.Ss.R, but also with friendships formed, horizons widened, and aspirations ignited.
Through this initiative, the Redemptorist Province of Bangalore continues its unwavering commitment to uplifting the marginalized, promoting integral human development, and building a society where every individual—regardless of their background—has the opportunity to flourish.
As the young participants return to their homes, their eyes shine a little brighter, and their hearts beat a little stronger, filled with the hope that they can be agents of change in their communities. And that, perhaps, is the greatest success of this endeavor.
Fr. Thambi Joseph, C.Ss.R.
