Written by Elsy Kotteriyil, SCN
The name Arunodaya marks a moment of change. In Sanskrit, Aruna refers to the soft crimson glow before sunrise, while Udaya means rising. Together, Arunodaya describes the moment when darkness begins to give way to light. For nearly two decades, the Arunodaya Training Centre in Patna has lived this meaning by becoming the first light in the lives of young women who dared to imagine more for themselves.
Founded July 2, 2007, Arunodaya was envisioned by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in response to a clear social need. Nongovernmental organizations required trained para professionals, and many capable young women were being overlooked. Arunodaya was blessed by the then archbishop of the Patna Archdiocese, Benedict J. Osta. Sister Roselyn Karakkattu served as the first director of the training program.
The current class of Arunodaya students and trainees during hands on learning, reflecting a formation process that blends practical skills, shared learning and daily guidance as young women prepare for careers and greater responsibility.
The early years were marked by both diversity and challenge. The first class included 20 young women from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Darjeeling and Nepal. They represented different languages, religions, cultures and educational backgrounds. Three religious sisters joined the program and offered steady support. The training blended theory and practice and included social work principles, English communication, women’s legal rights, human rights, gender awareness, environmental studies, computer and typing skills, office management, street plays, nonformal education and local self governance. Field visits and exposure to NGOs grounded learning in daily reality.
At the heart of Arunodaya was not only the curriculum but also care. A family like environment was created where trainees could speak freely, ask questions and grow. Many received job offers before completing the course. Graduation ceremonies marked moments of pride that recognized both professional readiness and personal growth.
One story that reflects Arunodaya’s impact is that of Karuna Mishra, a member of the 2011 to 2012 batch. After completing Class 12, she joined Arunodaya and entered a disciplined and caring environment rooted in values. Learning extended beyond textbooks. She gained confidence, dignity, kindness and a strong sense of responsibility. Encouraged to set goals and work toward them, Karuna became self reliant and focused. Today she serves as a government teacher. She credits Arunodaya and the guidance of the sisters for laying a strong foundation.
Another example is Sarita Kumari from Mokama in Patna. From a community where girls’ education was once dismissed, she joined Arunodaya’s social work course in 2007 to 2008. The training strengthened her confidence and led her to pursue higher studies. She earned a master’s degree in social work, worked closely with women’s groups, and later held management roles. Her growth influenced her neighborhood. Families began educating their daughters, and even her father’s outlook changed. “What I am today is because of Arunodaya,” she says.
Kalpana, whose name has been changed, offers another powerful story. A school dropout after Class Five from a village in Daltonganj, Jharkhand, she spent her days caring for animals and managing household work. Later, while working as a domestic worker in Bihar, she was encouraged to resume her studies through the National Open School and completed matriculation. She then joined the Jesuit Coaching Centre in Madhubani and passed her Intermediate examination. Despite family pressure to marry, she chose education. Using her savings, she enrolled at Arunodaya, excelled in her studies and returned to her village determined to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Arunodaya has also been a space for vocational discernment. Through sustained accompaniment and daily witness among the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, former trainees Reshma Kumari, now a staff member at Arunodaya, Saroj Kumari and Swastika Kiro chose consecrated life. Their time at Arunodaya allowed them to encounter religious life through lived practice, marked by simplicity, availability for service and solidarity with those on the margins. Their journeys continue to affirm Arunodaya as a formative space.
The leaders who have guided Arunodaya over the years. Clockwise from top-left, Sister Roselyn Karakkattu, founding director who shaped the training program in its early years. Sister Teresa Madassery, who strengthened attention to personal growth and well being. Sister Arpita Mundamattam, who brought administrative clarity and structure. Sister Deepa Theckecheruvil, current director, who continues the program with a learning centered approach.
Leadership at Arunodaya has centered on presence rather than position. Sister Roselyn Karakkattu laid a strong foundation marked by courage and vision, shaping a program that combined academic rigor with social engagement. She was followed by Sister Teresa Madassery, whose background in counseling strengthened attention to emotional well being and personal growth. Sister Arpita Mundamattam added administrative clarity and a structured approach, responding to changing needs.
Today, Sister Deepa Theckecheruvil, an educationist, continues this legacy with a learning centered approach. Reflecting on her experience, she says, “I enjoy working with the trainees and sharing my knowledge with them. The happiness on their faces and the satisfaction I see after they complete their assignments bring me great joy.” Together, these sisters, drawing from experience in social ministry, counseling and education, accompany trainees closely and help them adjust with confidence to new environments.
Three former Arunodaya trainees who later chose consecrated life. Left to right, Sister Reshma Kumari, now a staff member at Arunodaya, along with Sister Saroj Kumari and Sister Swastika Kiro, discerned their call through formation, daily accompaniment and shared life with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Their journeys show Arunodaya’s role as a formative space for personal growth.
Many other members of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth have contributed to the training program. Resource persons from religious congregations, clergy and lay professionals have also supported the program. Their shared involvement strengthened the center’s vision and broadened the trainees’ perspectives. Arunodaya remains grateful for the service and commitment of all who have shared in this work of formation.
An evaluation in 2018 to 2019 showed that while commitment to service remained strong, economic realities made it difficult for many graduates to continue in field based social work. The job market increasingly required office skills. In response, Arunodaya redesigned its program while remaining true to its purpose. The result was a comprehensive office management training course that is practical, employable and values based.
Today, Arunodaya stands firm, with nearly 300 women prepared to support themselves and their families. Guided by committed Sisters and mentors, it remains true to its name. For every young woman who enters its gates, Arunodaya becomes that first gentle light, affirming dignity and opening a future she can claim as her own.
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This magazine article originally appeared in The Journey Vol. 01, 2026.
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