The Women Commission of the Diocese of Karwar organised awareness programmes on POCSO, POSH, and Gender Equality & Equity in Kajubag and Kone Deaneries on 2 and 9 August 2026, respectively. The programmes aimed to empower women and adolescents with awareness about child protection, prevention of sexual harassment, gender sensitivity, and the importance of creating safe and respectful families and communities.

The programme was held at St. Joseph Church Hall, Kajubag, with the participation of 135 women from various parishes. It was organised under the leadership of Sr. Mabel Pinto DHM, Secretary of the Diocesan Women Commission, with the support of Rev. Fr. Ireneo Dias, Dean of Kajubag Deanery.

The programme began with a welcome by Mrs. Perpeth D’Souza and prayer led by Fr. Ireneo Dias. Mrs. Daizy Rosario, Deanery Leader, shared insights from the Diocesan TOT programme and encouraged women to take an active role in community leadership.

Mrs. Jane Rodrigues, a professional counsellor and experienced trainer, conducted the sessions on POCSO, POSH, and gender equality & equity through interactive presentations, case studies, videos, and group discussions. The sessions focused on child protection, recognising abuse, prevention of sexual harassment, rights and dignity, and promoting equality and mutual respect.

During the programme, Rev. Fr. John Fernandes was appointed Spiritual Director, and Sr. Maxina of the Sisters of Adorers was appointed Sister Coordinator of the Kajubag Deanery Women Cell. The participants were also reminded about the forthcoming diocesan-level singing competition.

Mrs. Ivy Rosario, on behalf of the Women Commission, thanked Rev. Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Diocesan Vicar General, for making the hall available. She also expressed gratitude to the resource person, participants, Mr. Akwil, Mr. Flevian Rodrigues, and Deanery Leaders Mrs. Felcita Gomes and Mrs. Donitha Fernandes for their support and coordination.

The second programme was held at the KDDC Building, Kone, with the participation of more than 50 women and adolescents. The programme was organised with the support of Rev. Fr. Gabriel Monis, Dean of Kone Deanery.

Mrs. Jane Rodrigues conducted the sessions in an engaging and practical manner, helping participants understand child protection, prevention of sexual harassment, and gender equality and equity.

The programme was supported by Sr. Mabel De’ Cruz, Sister Coordinator, and Mrs. Leena Siddi. Mrs. Concepta Fernandes compared the programme, Mrs. Pratima Fernandes welcomed the gathering, and Mrs. Reena Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks.

Special gratitude was expressed to Rev. Fr. Steevan D’Souza, Director of KDDC, Fr. Roshan, and Fr. Stewart Fernandes for providing the venue and making the necessary arrangements.

The two programmes provided a valuable platform for women and adolescents to gain practical knowledge on child safety, legal awareness, personal dignity, and gender sensitivity, strengthening their commitment to building safer and more respectful families, parishes, and communities.