The Inaugural function of Jnana Deepa Women Student’s Forum was held on July 3, 2024, Rev. Fr. Francis Gonsalves, President of JD, presided as the main celebrant, with Fr. Stephen Jayard, the Animator of JDSC, delivered a powerful message on this year’s theme: Women as The Faithful Pilgrims of Hope. Father emphasized the importance of hope in our lives, stating that it is indispensable for our existence.
During the Holy Mass, Sr. Prabitha renewed her vows, marking a significant moment of spiritual dedication. Following the Holy Mass Revered Fathers delivered felicitations, underscoring the Forum’s importance and the dedication of its members. The event continued with Sr. Sendra presenting the annual report, highlighting the achievements and initiatives of the Forum over the past year. Sr. Patricia, the Animator of Women Student’s Forum, then awarded mementos to the outgoing team members, recognizing their contributions and commitment.
After a refreshing tea break, Srs. Sarita and Ashipro organized engaging games that uplifted the spirit of all attendees, fostering a sense of camaraderie and enthusiasm. The function concluded with an enlightening orientation session by Sr. Patricia, encouraging all to contemplate actions beyond academics and to strive towards creating a gender- just institution. Her insights inspired all to reflect on their roles in shaping a better society. Overall, the inaugural function of the Women Student’s Forum was a resounding success, marked by spiritual enrichment, camaraderie, renewed commitment to the Forum’s mission.
Girl Child Day
On September 29, 2024, the JD women’s forum in collaboration with Streevani centre organized a half day program for slum children in and around Pune. The event took place at the Center for women’s studies on JD campus and showed the participation of 64 children accompanied by 7 volunteers and Sr. Shanti from Streevani centre. Sr. Neelima Xalxo extended a warm welcome to the gathering and Sr. Karuna conducted an engaging and informative session on hygiene emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and good health practices. the members of the JD women’s forum distributed books and drawing kits to the children. This was followed by a lively action song that got the children involved and energized. The children were later divided into groups for a drawing competition with the theme ‘Care for nature’. This activity aimed to foster creativity and raise environmental awareness among the participants. The program also included a flower making activity where the children learned how to create beautiful flowers using simple materials. the children were divided into groups for a drawing competition with the theme ‘Care for nature’. This activity aimed to foster creativity and raise environmental awareness among the participants. The program also included a flower making activity where the children learned how to create beautiful flowers using simple materials. Sr. Celestina concluded the event by proposing a vote of thanks, appreciating the efforts of everyone involved.
Report on AI Workshop
0n October 2, 2024, the JD Students’ Women’s Forum organized a one-day workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for women students. The event featured four resource persons: Bros. Joshua Kishanth, Jeffry, Thomas and Irivo who led various sessions throughout the day.
The first session introduced the fundamentals of AI, followed by discussion on ChatBots and prompt engineering. The text topic explored AI’s role in media, covering aspects such as image and video generation, text-to-speech conversation, and automatic subtitle generation. Later the participants learned how to use AI tools for academic research, with practical demonstrations. The sessions also introduced Canva for AI- powered designs and explored the applications of AI in church- specific ChatBots. The event was highly engaging, informative, and beneficial, with around 32 Sisters actively participating and gaining valuable insights into the applications of AI.
Report on Extension Lecture
On November 28, 2024, the Women’s Forum organized an extension lecture on the topic “Addressing and preventing violence against women”. The guest speaker was Dr. Manisha Gupte, the founder of Masum, Pune. The session was not just informative or shedding light on the complexities of the global problem but provided us with invaluable insights through her vast knowledge and experiences enlightened and enriched the session.
Report of the JDWSF Christmas Outreach Program
On December 2, 2024, the JDWSF organized a heartwarming Christmas outreach program at Maher, Wagholi. Maher is home to over 200 destitute women and 70 children, many of whom face mental health challenges.
The visit was an opportunity to spread joy and love. The program began with interactions with the residents, creating a spirit of connections and warmth. A group of sisters performed various delightful activities, including dance, an action song, and a lively Santa dance that brought smiles to everyone’s faces. Sr. Bela delivered a heartfelt Christmas message in Hindi, sharing the true essence of the season and uplifting spirits.
To add to the festive cheer, snacks brought by the group were shared among the residents, bringing joy and fostering a sense of togetherness. The day concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Sr. Sarita, who expressed our gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful experience.
Women’s Day Celebration
The women’s day celebration was held on February 24, 2025, at Papal Seminary. The event was thoughtfully organized by the brothers of the seminary to honor and appreciate women.
The celebration began with a solemn Holy Mass at 7:00 pm, creating a spiritually enriching atmosphere. Following the Mass, Sr. Regina delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing the significance of women in society and the Church.
After the address, the brothers hosted a fellowship dinner, providing a wonderful opportunity for interaction. Their initiative to recognize and celebrate women was deeply appreciated by all present. The event was meaningful and memorable occasion, fostering a spirit of gratitude and unity.
Farewell Programe
The farewell program was a heartwarming and memorable occasion, filled with gratitude, joy, and celebration. The event commenced with a prayer Service, invoking God’s blessings upon Sr. Patricia and the outgoing students. Following this, Sr. Jennifer delivered an appreciation speech for Sr. Patricia, acknowledging her contributions, dedication, and service. The atmosphere became even more joyous with her birthday cake cutting ceremony, marking a special moment of celebration. A lively group dance followed, adding vibrancy and energy to the gathering. Sr. Lisna extended a heartfelt welcome speech. The program continued with sharing of experiences, where several sisters reflected on their journey. Following this Sr. Tresa George, Coordinator of Women’s Forum, presented the report, with high lighting activities conducted during this academic period. A fun-filled group activity brought everyone together, fostering a spirit of joy and participation. The outgoing students, represented by Sr. Smitha and Christine, expressed their heartfelt words of gratitude, acknowledging the guidance, love, and support they received. Sr. Leena delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the program. This was followed by the distribution of gifts, especially Women’s forum committee members were honored by Sr. Patricia and Sr. Clara. The program concluded by the reply speech of Sr. Patricia.
The farewell was a beautiful blend of emotions, memories, and celebrations, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present.