International Diploma Course for Community Development Workers

Hi people!

I would like to invite all of you, especially those engaged in developmental works at the community level to enroll in our summer course, "International Diploma Course for Community Development Workers". This 2-month course aims to provide the participants with basic knowledge, attitudes and skills in Community Development as a strategy for social change. It also serves as a venue for the participants to examine and analyze various theoretical frameworks and strategies in working with people, in relation to their present and future involvement.

For those who are interested to enroll in the program you may download the application form by clicking on the Asian Social Institute link.

I hope all of you would accept this invitation and be part of this meaningful experience.

I guarantee you, you'll never regret being a part of it.

For the New Year

Happy New Year to all!!!

It has always been said that the birth of a new year signals another chance for all of us to change for the better - to mend broken ties; to aspire for loftier dreams; to look better, etc. The list could go on and on but what exactly is there with the opening of a new year that drives us to make 360, 180, 90 or 45 degree turns? Why do we want it in a new year when change can be done any time of the year or month or day?

My guess is that though admittedly there will always be an insatiable thirst to better ourselves we find it less exciting if such pursuit is done alone. Aristotle once said that we are all social animals - we all need to be connected, to belong. And turning into a new leaf for the New Year is not a lonely voice in the wild, but rather, an orchestra resonating in almost all parts of the world harping positive vibes in the form of resolutions, all in pursuit of a better life. Now, if that's not more exhilarating, motivating and fun, then I rest my case. Moreover, to be doing it at the start of a new year makes the count down easier and the accounting faster. However, to succeed or otherwise is another story altogether.

But heck, I would not want to discount the sheer effort of wanting to become a better person and for as long as we have never dried up our reservoir of hope for such, then this world is still a great place to be in.

So to all of you: KEEP THE FAITH!