Bendur: A Career Counselling and Study Abroad Guidance Session was organised at St. Sebastian Church, Bendur, on September 20, bringing together students, youth and parents for an informative interaction on higher education, career choices, scholarships, government assistance and opportunities for studying abroad.
The programme was jointly organised by the Catholic Sabha, Youth Commission, CAL and YCS of St. Sebastian Church, Bendur, in association with WiZdom Ed, with the aim of helping young people make informed decisions about their education and future careers.
The programme commenced with a prayer song by the CAL members. The dignitaries were then invited onto the stage. Joe Pereira, President of the Youth Commission, delivered the welcome address, after which the programme was formally inaugurated by the chief guest Rev. Fr. Arun Lobo, Principal of Padua College by lighting the lamp. In his address he encouraged students to approach their educational and career choices with clarity and purpose.
The first session was led by *Dr. Francisca Tej, Co-Founder and Managing Director of WiZdom Ed, and Dr. Guru Tej, Co-Founder and Chief Academic Officer of WiZdom Ed. They were introduced to the gathering by Joanna Pereira, YCS member.
Introducing the duo, it was highlighted that WiZdom Ed emerged from the shared vision of Dr. Francisca and Dr. Guru Tej, who, through their academic, research and mentoring experiences, recognised the need for personalised guidance for students aspiring to pursue higher education abroad.
During their session, the resource persons emphasised that studying abroad involves much more than selecting a university or country. Students were encouraged to consider their academic interests, career aspirations, financial circumstances, long-term goals and post-study opportunities before making decisions.
The session covered various aspects of the international education journey, including career counselling, university selection, applications, scholarships, entrance examinations, visa procedures and pre-departure preparation. The speakers also highlighted examinations such as IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, SAT, PTE and GMAT, depending on the student’s chosen course and destination.
The resource persons also drew attention to emerging educational destinations such as Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong and the UAE, encouraging students to explore a wider range of opportunities rather than limiting themselves to conventional destinations.
The discussion also focused on what happens after graduation. Students were encouraged to examine post-study work opportunities and the regulations applicable in different countries while selecting their course and destination.
Experiences of students who had already undertaken study-abroad journeys added a practical dimension to the session. Their experiences offered insights into documentation, visa procedures, adapting to a new academic environment and the realities of living and studying in another country.
The financial aspect of overseas education was also discussed. The session introduced initiatives of the WIN Foundation, including scholarship support of up to Rs.5 lakh for eligible students, subject to the prescribed conditions and eligibility criteria. The Foundation’s initiative of providing a free Chromebook or tablet to eligible students upon receiving their visa was also highlighted. Another initiative involves planting a sapling for every student who completes the study-abroad process through the organisation, linking educational aspirations with environmental responsibility.
Following the session, Rohan Lobo, President of YCS, expressed gratitude to the first resource persons and presented mementos as a token of appreciation.
The second session focused on Government Educational Schemes and financial assistance available to Christian and minority students.by Karnataka Christian community development corporation Ltd Officer Manjunath R. was introduced by Ashwin Pinto, CAL member.
In his session, Manjunath provided information on scholarship schemes, competitive examination coaching schemes and the Overseas Education Loan Scheme available through the Minority Welfare Department. He explained the importance of understanding eligibility conditions and completing the required documentation while applying for government assistance.
The session also covered various aspects such as eligibility, income requirements, academic qualifications, necessary documents and the application procedure. Particular attention was given to financial assistance available to eligible students from minority communities pursuing higher education.
The interaction gave students and parents an opportunity to seek clarification on scholarships, education loans, competitive examination coaching, overseas education and other educational support schemes.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Lancy Lasrado, Treasurer of the Catholic Sabha and programme was compered by Ivin Sequeira, CAL member.