Bishop of Mangalore Flags Off Counselling and Psychology Diploma Programme at St Aloysius University
Mangaluru: Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, inaugurated the four-month online Diploma Certificate Programme in Counselling and Psychology designed for Prison Ministry India volunteers on 5 January 2026 at St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangalore. This programme is a collaborative venture between St Aloysius University, Mangalore, and the Prison Ministry India National Office, Carmelaram, Bengaluru.
Prof. Edmund Frank, Course Coordinator, welcomed the gathering and introduced the dignitaries. Rev. Dr. Francis Kodiyan, MCBS, National Coordinator and Co-founder of Prison Ministry India (PMI), explained the significance of the course and said that a diploma in Counselling and Psychology has become absolutely necessary for PMI volunteers.
In his inaugural address, Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha congratulated St Aloysius University and Prison Ministry India for designing this useful programme for Prison Ministry volunteers across India.
Dr. Ronald Nazareth, Registrar, in his address delivered an encouraging message and stated that the University is always receptive to such meaningful outreach programmes and assured its full support.
Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis, SJ, Vice-Chancellor, in his presidential address spoke about his personal experience of working with prison inmates at Tihar Jail and mentioned that this was the fourth such diploma programme conducted with affiliation from St Aloysius University for prison inmates and volunteers.
Dr. Rosa Nimmy Mathew, Co-coordinator and Resource Person, and Dr. Saritha D’Souza graced the occasion. Sr. Amala, National Secretary, PMI, proposed the vote of thanks.
