Ursuline Franciscan SCAF Convention Brings Together 150 Students from 29 Schools in Mysuru

HUNSUR, October 12, 2026: The Ursuline Franciscan Educational Society (UFES), Mangaluru, brought together 150 students from 29 schools for a three-day Social Change Agents Forum (SCAF) Convention at St Joseph Institutions, Hunsur, in Mysuru district. The convention, which concluded on October 11, focused on adolescent empowerment, leadership and social responsibility.

Held under the theme “Drive the Change, Build the Future,” the convention encouraged students to identify social challenges, question harmful practices and develop practical initiatives to address community needs.

Dr Thippeswamy K. T., former member of the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, unveiled the SCAF theme logo on the second day and urged students to take the initiative in addressing social problems rather than waiting for others to act.

Sr Milly Fernandes, president of UFES, released a book on social change and career guidance modules. She encouraged students to recognise community needs, develop concern for others and work collectively towards social transformation.

Personal experiences inspire action

Resource persons shared experiences highlighting the role of education, determination and collective action in overcoming social barriers.

Jayamma of the Azim Premji Foundation recounted how she challenged her own child marriage and pursued education despite coming from a remote background. Her testimony highlighted the importance of personal courage and education in overcoming social constraints.

Harish Jogi, UNICEF's programme manager for child protection in Koppal, stressed that social initiatives must address people's actual needs and improve their lives in meaningful ways. He urged students to focus on tangible outcomes in their communities.

L. Sonia Dominica, Fairtrade USA adviser for Asia and Africa, led a think-tank session in which participants examined social issues, reflected on their attitudes and identified their strengths. The session encouraged them to take responsibility for their actions and build confidence in their ability to bring about change.

Seventeen-year-old Asavari Agrawal, founder of Shape the Future, shared her experience of initiating social change projects, demonstrating how young people can contribute to wider transformation through purposeful action.

Workshops promote sustainable practices

Demonstrations organised by S.G. Kendra, Mysore, and Roshni Trust, Hangal, the social action centres of the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation, introduced students to practical approaches to community well-being.

The sessions covered herbal remedies, organic manure preparation, water conservation and drug addiction prevention, linking social responsibility with environmental sustainability and healthy living.

A cultural programme showcased the talents of students from UFES institutions. A tableau depicting the life and leadership of Mother Nympha was staged under the direction of Christopher John D’Souza, accompanied by dance and mime performances highlighting the values that guide the society's educational mission.

Students and schools recognised

During the valedictory programme on October 11, Deepthi R., a second-year degree student from Gundlupet, shared her life experiences and journey of personal transformation. She encouraged young people facing difficulties to seek support, approach challenges with courage and take positive steps towards change.

Schools and individuals recognised for their social change initiatives were honoured, along with those who contributed to organising the convention.

Sr Philomena Noronha urged the participants to translate the lessons of the convention into concrete initiatives in their schools, families and communities, with a commitment to social welfare and development.

The 2026 convention marks another step in UFES's five-year effort to empower adolescents through awareness programmes, life-skills education, social change initiatives, career guidance and parent capacity-building.

By bringing students together with social workers and practitioners, the forum sought to equip young people to respond to social challenges through informed action, collaboration and sustained community engagement.

By Catholic Connect Reporter