Odisha Jesuits’ Human Life Center Transforms Youth Lives at Skill Graduation Ceremony

Bhubaneswar, December 22, 2025 — The Human Life Center (HLC), run by the Jesuits, held its third Skill Development Graduation Ceremony in Bhubaneswar, marking a major milestone in the lives of marginalised youth trained for employment and higher education.

A total of 180 students completed professional courses in Spoken English, Computer Skills and Public Speaking. The programme aims to equip young people from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds with practical skills and confidence for the job market.

One of the graduates, Arpita Malla, shared how the training transformed her prospects. She said she had been selected for six jobs and now felt confident to plan her future and pursue postgraduate studies. Arpita recalled joining HLC with fear and low self-confidence, particularly due to difficulties with English, and credited the encouragement she received during the programme for her growth.

The graduation ceremony showcased the trainees’ progress, with students participating as speakers, performers and programme anchors, many appearing on stage for the first time.

The chief guest, Fr. Michael Fernandez, SJ, commended the students for their perseverance and spoke on discernment, excellence and positivity as guiding values for life. He said Christmas serves as a reminder to contribute positively to society.

Fr. Ajay Sobahasundar, Parish Priest of the Pro-Cathedral Church, Bhubaneswar, said the programme had helped students overcome fear and self-doubt, describing the occasion as a moment where “tears have turned into joy”.

Speaking on behalf of the students, trainee Priyadarshi Pradhan acknowledged the role of Fr. Jerome Francis, SJ, Director of HLC, for mentoring and motivating the participants. In his remarks, Fr. Jerome said the initiative grew from collective effort and thanked supporters, trainers and staff for accompanying the students throughout the journey.

Following completion of the programme, most graduates secured employment, with starting salaries averaging ₹15,000 per month and some earning ₹30,000 or more. The initiative primarily serves Dalit and Tribal youth, school dropouts and economically disadvantaged young people from Odisha and Jharkhand, while remaining open to all religious backgrounds.

The Human Life Center is a Jesuit-run life skills institute under the Jesuits of Jamshedpur Province, and a sister concern of XIM University and Loyola School, Bhubaneswar. It offers affordable training in communication, computer skills and vocational programmes, focusing on holistic personal and professional development.

By Sr. Sujata Jena

Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates: 

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download