Canara Communication Centre Empowers St. Charles Borromeo Sisters with AI Workshop in Bangalore

Bangalore, 12 February 2025 – A one-day workshop titled "Transforming Life and Ministry with AI" was held on 10 February 2025 at the Provincial House of the Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo in St. Thomas Town, Bangalore. The workshop was organised by the Western Province of the St. Charles Borromeo Religious Congregation, in collaboration with Canara Communication Centre, Mangalore, and “AI Lumina” (an AI learning platform). It was held to empower the Sisters with knowledge of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance digital communication, streamline administrative processes, and boost overall productivity in their respective fields of education, social work, and healthcare.

The event brought together 80 participants, including administrators, principals, educators, and teachers from St. Charles Borromeo institutions nationwide. The sessions during the workshop aimed to explore how AI can revolutionise educational methodologies, improve healthcare services, support social outreach programs, and enhance the operational efficiency of religious organisations.

The resource persons for the workshop were Fr. Anil Ivan Fernandes, Google Certified AI Coach, media professional, and director of Canara Communication Centre, Mangalore, and Mr. Leo Victor Zalki, Oracle and Google Certified AI Professional and director of Oxidane Enviro LLP, Mangalore.

During his session, Fr. Fernandes focused on the practical applications of AI in education, demonstrating how technology can enhance teaching and learning experiences. “AI is not here to replace us but to amplify our creativity and efficiency. By embracing AI, professionals can achieve greater productivity,” he stated.

In his presentation, Mr. Zalki showcased innovative AI tools adaptable across various sectors, from healthcare to social work. Echoing Fr. Fernandes’ sentiment, he remarked, “AI does not kill our creativity; rather, it amplifies and augments our professional life and religious ministry.”

Sr. Juliet Cutino, Western Province Councillor and workshop coordinator, highlighted the need for integrating AI into modern educational practices, stating, “AI is the need of the hour. Harnessing its power can enhance the productivity and service we offer to our communities. We are committed to transforming ourselves by integrating AI into our lives and ministry to serve better.”

The event also witnessed the presence of Sr Rita Varghese, Provincial, along with Sr Wilma Rebello, Councillors Sr Pricilla Lobo and Sr. Sheela Cruz. Sr Nancy Cutinho, Principal of St Charles Women’s PU College, Bangalore, played a pivotal role in coordinating the logistics of the workshop.

The workshop also featured insights into the ethical implications of AI, ensuring that participants understood both its benefits and potential risks. At the conclusion of the event, attendees were provided with access to an AI course on the Learning Management System (LMS), while 10 lucky participants were awarded premium access to advanced AI tools.

For more information on AI-related courses and workshops, visit www.ailumina.in.

Report and Photos by Canara Communications Centre, Mangalore