Tag: empathy

Social

Public Conference in Margao Urges Revival of Neighbourhood Bonds for an Ideal Society

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Margao, Goa – A public conference on “Ideal Neighbourhood – Ideal Society” organised by Jamat-e-Islami Goa was held at Adarsh Convention Hall, marking the conclusion of a 10-day nationwide campaign aimed at strengthening neighbourhood relations and restoring social harmony. The event witnessed the participation of prominent religious leaders, social workers, and community representatives, including Fr. Ramiro Luis of Majorda Village, Meenaz Banu, Swamini Gopikananda Saraswati of Chinmaya Krishna Ashram, Fr. Gabriel Coutinho of Navelim Village, Asif Hussain, President of JIH Goa, Shaikh Bashir, President of the Association of All Goa Muslim Jamaats, and Chief Guest Salim Engineer, Vice President of JIH India.

The conference highlighted a pressing concern in contemporary society: although people live physically close to one another, emotional distance and social disconnect have grown significantly. Speakers observed that technology and social media, while enabling global connections, have reduced meaningful interactions with neighbours. This erosion of everyday bonds, they cautioned, undermines the very foundation of society.

The discussions emphasized that neighbourhoods are the building blocks of a peaceful nation. Simple gestures such as courtesy, cooperation, offering help, and showing kindness play a decisive role in nurturing trust and unity. All religions and value systems, the speakers affirmed, emphasize compassion, responsibility, and care for one’s neighbours.

Participants also reflected on rising individualism, insecurity, and the decline in mutual respect. They urged citizens to counter these trends by reviving empathy, strengthening communication, and engaging more actively with local communities. Healthy neighbourhood ties, it was noted, contribute directly to social harmony, justice, and collective well-being.

The conference concluded with a strong call to action for people to consciously rebuild neighbourhood relationships, organize local community activities, and embrace attitudes of patience, forgiveness, and goodwill—values deemed essential for shaping an ideal society.

Films

Rab Di Awaaz Screening Inspires Inclusion at Chubby Cheeks Spring Valley High

Tanisha Cardozo

As part of the pre-events for the highly anticipated International Purple Fest, Goa 2025, Chubby Cheeks Spring Valley High School, Porvorim, had the honour of hosting the screening of Rab Di Awaaz, a powerful and emotive film series that beautifully captures the lives and challenges of persons with disabilities.

Organized by the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, and the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, the event was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, the United Nations, and the Rotary Club of Bardez Coastal. This inspiring initiative aimed to foster awareness, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the need for inclusion and equal opportunities in all spheres of life.

The program featured esteemed guests including Mr. Ojaswwee Sharma, National Award–Winning Film Director; Mr. Bhasker Pandey, Film Editor; Mr. Shridhar Gupta, Editor; and Dr. Rimpi Arora, Advisor on Policy and Inclusion. Mr. Sharma addressed the students and faculty, offering a compelling talk on the creative process behind Rab Di Awaaz and the importance of inclusive storytelling in reshaping societal perspectives.

What made the screening unique was its delivery format—telecasted in every classroom using Smart TV panels, a pioneering step that sets Chubby Cheeks Spring Valley High apart as the first school in Goa to integrate Smart Class facilities in all classrooms. This technology-enabled approach ensured that every student, from primary to high school, could engage with the film in an immersive and accessible manner.

The event left a lasting impression on students, instilling a sense of empathy and awareness about the challenges and strengths of persons with disabilities. It was not just a film screening, but a step toward building a more inclusive, informed, and compassionate generation.

Through initiatives like these, Chubby Cheeks Spring Valley High School continues to be a beacon of progressive, values-driven education that goes beyond academics to shape socially responsible individuals.