The Roshni Alumni Association (RAA) and the School of Social Work(SSW), Roshni Nilaya, proudly presented the Annual Maria Paiva Couceiro Memorial Lecture on Tuesday, June 6, 2023. The event took place at the Maria Paiva Hall, Roshni Nilaya in Mangaluru. The program commenced at 4 pm and was marked by an atmosphere of intellectual engagement and reverence.
The event was hosted by Ms Ratna Pinto, who skillfully guided the proceedings through the engaging evening. The UG students of Roshni Nilaya invoked God’s blessings with a soulful prayer song, setting the tone for an evening dedicated to knowledge and reflection.
Dr. Lavina M Norohna, Director, Ave Maria Palliative Care, Mangaluru, a renowned expert in her field, delivered the memorial lecture, during which she shared her insights on the topic, ‘Hospice Care: Striving for a Dignified End-of-Life.’
With eloquence and expertise, she elucidated on the distinctions between hospital care and hospice care, shedding light on the various psychological and existential challenges faced by individuals nearing the end of their lives. Through poignant real-life examples, she underscored the difficulties encountered by families when a loved one is in their final moments. Dr. Norohna emphasized the utmost significance of upholding a patient’s dignity and respect, whether in a hospital or a hospice care center.
The gathering was warmly welcomed by Dr. Malini Hebbar, the President of RAA. Dr. Jacinta Dsouza, the Guest of Honour and Retired Principal of the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, delivered an inspiring speech, paying tribute to the extraordinary life of Madame Maria Paiva. Diana Pinto, a dedicated member of the Executive Committee, introduced the esteemed speaker, Dr. Lavina Norohna, highlighting her remarkable contributions to the field of palliative care.
Dr. Norohna’s exceptional service to humanity was acknowledged during the event. Dr. Jenis Mary, Vice Principal of the School of Social Work Roshni Nilaya, Prof. Malini, President of Roshni Association, Prof. Vida Sequeira DHM, and Dr. Jacinta Dsouza, and members of RAA, together honored Dr. Norohna for her outstanding dedication to alleviating with dignity the suffering of persons nearing the end of their lives through a holistic approach.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of RAA, the Executive Committee, staff, and students, Ms. Lyra Pinto, the Secretary of RAA, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the collective efforts that made the event a resounding success.
The Annual Maria Paiva Couceiro Memorial Lecture serves as a platform for intellectual discourse, fostering a deeper understanding of crucial topics while honoring the memory of an exceptional individual.
The Roshni Alumni Association and the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, remain committed to organizing such impactful events that contribute to the betterment of society.
Here are a few visuals from the programme – Click to view expanded images:
