A two-day training program aimed at equipping young internally displaced persons (IDPs) with essential marketing skills was held on August 20–21 at St. Thomas Parish, Singngat, in the north-eastern state of Manipur. The initiative brought together 54 participants, including IDPs from various relief camps and local community members.
The program opened with a prayer and words of encouragement from Father Athanasius Mung, parish priest of St. Thomas. “Every day of our life and work is also part of marketing skill,” he reminded the participants, setting the tone for an empowering and practical session.
The key resource person was Obed Paogoulian Singson, Secretary of the Department of Trade and Commerce, Kuki Innpi Manipur, who underscored the importance of developing marketing skills for sustainable livelihoods. “Life is not straightforward. Hard work and the right skills are essential to survive and thrive in today’s world,” he said.
Singson pointed to the rich natural resources in Manipur’s hilly regions as untapped opportunities for entrepreneurship. He also informed participants about government schemes and bank loan options available for small businesses, stressing that genuine commitment and interest are critical to success.
Mrs. Catherine Suonnuam, an IDP now residing in a Church-built home, shared that the training taught her valuable lessons in customer relations and money management, which she plans to apply in the future.
Another participant, Louise Khup, echoed similar sentiments, saying he learned the importance of saving and maintaining good customer relationships.
The training was organized by the Diocesan Social Service Society (DSSS), Imphal, in collaboration with the Italian Bishops’ Conference. DSSS has been conducting various livelihood programs in Singngat to support communities affected by conflict.
Thomas Paupi, Regional DSSS Manager and coordinator of relief camps at St. Joseph School, emphasized that the Church’s initiatives are rooted in the mission to help people live with dignity. He encouraged participants to stay engaged in future training programs.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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