A seminar on the topic 'Challenges in parenting' was conducted in St Mary's Convent Sr Sec School, Tulsi Nagar on Wednesday. This was conducted exclusively for the parents who are struggling to deal with various issues regarding their wards, on the initiative of the Principal Sr Mary CD.
Fr Varghese Alengaden, the founder and national coordinator of Universal Solidarity movement (USM) of value education for peace was the resource person.
The programme began with lighting of the lamp, a short prayer and a solemn prayer dance. Pointing out the alarming statistics on suicides and juvenile crimes, Fr Varghese told the parents to ponder over the reasons of the increasing suicidal tendency and violence among teenagers. He emphasised on the need to inculcate moral values among children.
He reminded Swami Vivekananda's words, "True education builds character, increases mental power and expands intellect." He further said that what Vivekananda said 150 years back has still got relevance. It is a matter of concern that in a country where temples, mosques and churches are more in number than schools why violence is increasing. A ritualistic life may not make you morally sound, he added.
He also stressed on the need to give quality time to children and inculcate reading habit among kids, so it is important to have a library at home instead of a showcase. Father Varghese is running the movement USM for the past 25 years on self finance. He and his committed team has been conducting seminars, workshops and leadership training programmes for students, teachers, parents and heads of institutes.
Fr while interacting with parents urged the parents to visit the national office of USM, at Indore. The seminar ended with felicitation of Father by Principal Sr Mary CD. She expressed her gratitude and joy at the cooperation of the parents by being present in maximum number.