Mapusa, Goa | July 12, 2025 – St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, Goa, formally commenced its 63rd academic year 2025–26 with an Inaugural Ceremony anchored in faith, reflection, and celebration. Held at the college Ark, the programme was themed “With Hope and Wisdom, We Journey to Excellence.”
The ceremony began with a Eucharistic Celebration at 9:30 a.m., led by His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman. Also present were Rev. Fr. Antonio Salema (Administrator), Fr. Joism D’Souza, Acting Principal Ms. Ursula Barretto, and Vice-Principal Prof. Filipe Rodrigues e Melo, who joined the Cardinal in lighting the ceremonial lamp.
In his welcome address, Fr. Salema echoed the words of Pope Francis, urging students and faculty to walk the year ahead with resilience, gratitude, and hope. Acting Principal Ms. Barretto outlined the institution’s academic and co-curricular milestones, thanked staff for their dedication, and paid tribute to retiring educators.
A key academic highlight was the Lectio Brevis by Prof. Afonso Botelho, titled “Exploring Goan Behaviour in Everyday Life through the Dramatic Lens of Erving Goffman.” The session provided valuable sociological insights into Goan identity and interaction.
Three major college publications were launched during the event:
- The Halcyon – edited by Ms. Sunita Mesquita
- The Xavierwrite (e-edition) – launched by Ms. Freda Tavares
- Spectrum (digital edition) – introduced by Mr. Zen Lobo
The college honoured its retiring staff members – Ms. Alice D’Cruz, Ms. Anuradha Kakodkar, and Mr. Suresh Parsekar – for their invaluable service spanning decades.
In his keynote, Cardinal Ferrão spoke on the value of gratitude, calling it the foundation for humility, wisdom, and lifelong learning.
The ceremony concluded with a cultural programme featuring:
- A classical Indian dance performance
- A compelling spoken word poetry session
- An a cappella musical performance by students
The vote of thanks was delivered by Ms. Gema Athaide, who acknowledged the efforts of everyone involved in organizing the event.
The 63rd academic year at St. Xavier’s College begins with a renewed commitment to academic excellence, creative expression, and values-based education.
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