Panaji, August 22, 2026: Goa has entered a new chapter in community communication with the launch of Radio Mandovi 88.4 FM, the state’s first community radio station.
The launch took place as PACT Foundation celebrated its third Foundation Day at the Panjim Gymkhana. The occasion also marked the launch of Goa FutureReady, a state-wide initiative designed to help young people prepare for higher education and the evolving world of work.
The celebration brought together students, teachers, headmistresses, community leaders, donors and partners from across Goa. Actors Bhumi Pednekar, Imtiaz Ali and Rahul Bose were present at the event, while Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant extended his support through a video message.
From an Idea to a Movement
Addressing the gathering, Dr Ashwin Fernandes, Founder and President of PACT Foundation, reflected on the organisation’s journey since its establishment in 2023.
He said that what began as an idea had gradually grown into a movement focused on creating better opportunities for young people across Goa.
“We are lighting a lamp at every event and working to ensure we make the future bright for young people,” he said.
Dr Fernandes added that the Foundation now aims to expand its impact across the state.
PACT Foundation has touched the lives of more than 20,000 students across close to 41 schools over the past three years, with its work extending beyond urban centres into rural Goa.
Radio Mandovi 88.4 FM Begins Broadcasting
Based in Moira, Radio Mandovi 88.4 FM has its broadcasting tower installed in the village and began regular broadcasting from August 23, 2026.
Named after the Mandovi River, which has long connected Goa’s communities and stories, the station will focus on programmes in local languages.
Its content will cover important areas including:
- Education
- Health
- Agriculture
- Culture
- Civic information
- Community issues
The community radio station aims to create a communication platform that can reach people and households beyond the reach of traditional print and digital media.
Goa FutureReady Launched for Young People
Another major announcement at the Foundation Day celebration was the launch of Goa FutureReady.
PACT Foundation and CL Educate exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding and blueprint for the initiative, which is also supported by the mySATHI Foundation.
The programme will focus on helping young people make informed decisions about their education and careers through specialised psychometric assessments, career mapping and personalised school-to-university pathways.
These services will be offered free of charge to students from PACT Foundation’s beneficiary schools.
Bhumi Pednekar Connects Education with Dignity
Actor Bhumi Pednekar, whose family roots are in Pernem, spoke about the importance of dignity, equality and access to basic facilities for children.
She connected the Foundation’s work with the larger need to create safe and supportive environments where children, particularly girls, can continue their education and pursue their aspirations.
Bhumi highlighted that initiatives such as clean washrooms, better classrooms, libraries and playgrounds go beyond infrastructure and can directly influence a child’s confidence, safety and future opportunities.
Rahul Bose on the Power of Opportunity
Actor Rahul Bose spoke about his film Poorna, based on the story of a young tribal girl who climbed Mount Everest at the age of 13.
He described the story as an example of what can happen when young people are given opportunities, exposure and the right support.
According to Bose, education can help unlock possibilities that may otherwise remain undiscovered.
Imtiaz Ali Calls for Guidance and Opportunity
Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali reflected on his own journey and the decision to pursue a career in films.
He emphasised that every individual has potential and talent, but often requires the right guidance to discover and develop it.
Ali said that this access to guidance is what makes initiatives like PACT Foundation’s work significant for children and young people across Goa.
Transforming Schools and Supporting Students
Founded in 2023 by Dr Ashwin Fernandes, PACT Foundation works with government and under-resourced schools through its flagship Happy School Project.
The initiative supports schools through the development of:
- Smart classrooms
- Libraries
- Playgrounds
- Improved sanitation facilities
- Resource rooms for children with special needs
In the past year alone, the Foundation worked with 21 schools, benefiting 3,274 students and 208 teachers.
Its other initiatives include the Goa Super 100 programme, which supports full undergraduate scholarships for meritorious students from marginalised families.
The QS ImpACT Youth Scholarship also provides opportunities for young people from Goa to pursue studies in the United Kingdom.
With the launch of Radio Mandovi 88.4 FM and Goa FutureReady, PACT Foundation’s third Foundation Day marked not just a celebration of its journey so far, but the beginning of two new initiatives aimed at expanding access to information, education, guidance and opportunity across Goa.
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