Mangaluru: The Department of Postgraduate Studies and Research in Social Work, School of Arts and Humanities, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), organised a one-day seminar on “Strengthening Human Rights for Support Staff: Employment, Health and Skill Development” on July 17 at the Eric Mathias Hall of the University.
The seminar focused on promoting awareness of the rights, welfare, and dignity of support staff while addressing issues related to employment, occupational health, and skill development.
NHRC official highlights dignity of every worker
Shri Bipin Bihari Gautham, Presenting Officer (District Judge), National Human Rights Commission, New Delhi, inaugurated the seminar as the chief guest.
In his address, he emphasised that every employee deserves dignity and respect, irrespective of their role within an institution. Appreciating the dedicated service of support staff, he noted that their contributions play a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of educational institutions and the comfort of students and faculty.
He stressed that there should be no hierarchy in human dignity and called upon educational institutions to uphold the rights and welfare of support staff.
Vice-Chancellor underscores constitutional values
Presiding over the programme, Rev. Dr. Col. Praveen Martis SJ, Vice-Chancellor of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), thanked the National Human Rights Commission for partnering with the University in organising the seminar.
He highlighted the values enshrined in the Constitution of India and spoke about the fundamental rights guaranteed to every citizen. Emphasising justice, equality, and inclusivity, he also outlined the University’s efforts to foster a workplace built on respect, dignity, and equal opportunities for all employees.
Also present on the dais were Dr. Manohar Serrao, Dean, School of Arts and Humanities; Dr. Shwetha Rasquinha, Convenor of the programme; and Jansita, Student Convenor.
Expert sessions on health, rights and welfare
The seminar featured a series of expert sessions covering key aspects of employee welfare.
Dr. Rameela Shekhar delivered a session on occupational health, while Dr. Roshan Monteiro spoke on workplace dignity and skill development. Mr. Kishore Attavar addressed participants on employee support systems and government welfare benefits available to workers.
The event witnessed active participation from around 200 support staff members.
Dr. Shwetha Rasquinha welcomed the gathering. Jeevan D’Souza and Dhanyashree, second-year MSW students, compered the programme, while Jansita, also a second-year MSW student, proposed the vote of thanks.
The seminar reinforced the importance of recognising and protecting the rights of support staff while promoting healthier, more inclusive, and respectful workplaces.
