In collaboration with Manos Unidas, the Diocesan Social Service Society (DSSS), the social service arm of the Archdiocese of Imphal, inaugurated a 60-day carpentry training program for Catholic internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Singngat area on September 24 at St. Thomas Parish, Singngat.
This new initiative follows the successful completion of a one-month weaving program that trained 67 IDP women in livelihood skills.
In his introductory remarks, Thomas Paupi, Field Manager of the Singngat region, emphasized DSSS’s commitment to rebuilding the lives of families who lost homes and belongings during the recent riots. He encouraged participants to make good use of the training and tool kits provided for the betterment of their economic future.
The event opened with a prayer led by IDP member Nu Martha Chingkang, while Miss Mary Grace of the Community-Based Committee (CBC) coordinated the program.
Fr. Joseph Muan, Assistant Parish Priest of St. Thomas Parish, delivered the keynote address. He urged beneficiaries to remain grateful for the support they have received and to pass on the value of gratitude to their children. He also reminded them of the importance of eventually becoming donors themselves rather than remaining only beneficiaries.
The inauguration was attended by members of the Parish Pastoral Council, parish youth leaders, local church unit leaders, and Pa John, chief of Munpi village, who had donated land for the IDPs.
The carpentry training is being conducted in the parish school hall by master carpenter T. Benjamin Zou, himself an IDP. Seventeen beneficiaries from different Catholic IDP communities in Singngat received tool kits at the launch. As part of the opening practical session, the trainees and their trainer built a wooden rack for the parish library using their newly issued tools.
Meanwhile, graduates of the earlier weaving program proudly displayed their finished products, including traditional Zou shawls and mufflers. Participants expressed that the livelihood programs not only provide them with income opportunities but also allow them to devote their time and energy to supporting their families.
The event concluded with refreshments and fellowship among the beneficiaries, trainers, and parish leaders.
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