Category: EduConnect

EduConnect

Samarpan: Students of Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar High School Lead with Compassion

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

On 12th January 2026, Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar High School, Salvador-do-Mundo, hosted a deeply moving Samarpan event that beautifully reflected the spirit of giving, empathy and community service. The initiative brought students together with a shared purpose — to support Samvedana Ashram, Parra, Bardez, Goa, run by Jeevan Anand Sansthan.

The event opened with inspiring speeches by students Miss Varsha Kanse and Mast. Sahil Gawade, whose thoughtful words highlighted the importance of kindness and responsibility towards society. Adding further depth to the occasion, Tr. Saunlo Uscaikar addressed the students, motivating them to embrace compassion as a way of life and reminding them that service to humanity is a powerful form of education.

A soulful song on Swami Vivekanand, presented by the students, filled the atmosphere with positivity and inspiration, reinforcing the message of selfless service and inner strength. The highlight of the event was the generous contribution made by students from Classes 5 to 10 and the primary section, who donated essential items including wheat flour, biscuits, rice, soaps, toothpaste, pulses and potatoes. Their collective effort showcased unity, planning and a strong sense of social awareness at a young age.

Adding to the generosity, a well-wisher of the school, Shri Ramesh Tiwari, also contributed items to support the ashram. The Samarpan event stood as a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing empathetic, socially responsible individuals and creating meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom. The initiative not only helped those in need but also instilled lifelong values of compassion and service among the students.

EduConnect

Goa Inter-School Science Fair 2026 Concludes with Call to Nurture Young Knowledge Creators

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The two-day Goa Inter-School Science Fair 2026 – “Taare Zameen Par” concluded on Saturday evening at Samrat Garden, Margao, reinforcing the message that India’s future depends on empowering students to become creators of knowledge rather than mere consumers of technology.

Organised by the Board of Innovative Education (BIE), Goa, in collaboration with A.J. Academy for Research and Development, the fair was held on January 9 and 10 and witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 200 students representing 10 schools. A total of 54 research-based projects were presented across Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and Environmental Sciences, in both individual and group categories. The event attracted more than 500 student visitors, along with researchers, academicians, parents, science activists and members of the public, transforming the venue into a vibrant hub of scientific exchange.

The concluding ceremony was graced by Dr Sunil Kumar Singh, Director (Headquarters), CSIR–National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Dr Singh emphasised that while India imports a large amount of technology, the country has immense potential to generate its own solutions. He urged students to move beyond the narrow pursuit of monetary success and focus instead on knowledge creation. Praising the quality of projects on display, he said the research showcased at the fair offered strong hope for the future of Indian science.

Earlier, Muhammad Abdullah Javed, Director of A.J. Academy for Research and Development, highlighted how the science fair had instilled confidence in students, enabling them to present ideas clearly and respond thoughtfully to questions. He stressed the importance of collaboration between parents, institutions and students in nurturing innovation and guiding young talent towards meaningful futures.

The welcome address was delivered by Mrs Meenaz Bhanu, Secretary of the Board of Innovative Education. Dr Waliur Rahman was felicitated for receiving the prestigious Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar Award, India’s highest science honour, conferred by the President of India for outstanding contributions to scientific research. In his presidential address, Asif Hussain, Chairman of the Board of Innovative Education, reminded the audience that scientific inventions must be used for societal development and problem-solving rather than destruction.

Projects were evaluated by an expert panel of judges from diverse scientific backgrounds. Several awards were presented across categories and age groups, recognising originality, research depth and practical relevance. From local composting methods and natural water purifiers to studies on microplastics, soil erosion, renewable energy and environmental sustainability, the projects reflected strong scientific inquiry and social awareness.

The fair concluded with the distribution of mementos to participating schools, felicitation of judges and guests, presentation of awards, and the National Anthem. The Goa Inter-School Science Fair 2026 stood out for its emphasis on independent research, collaboration and innovation, laying a strong foundation for future scientists, researchers and problem-solvers in the state.

EduConnect

Drug Awareness & Cyber Security Session Held at PM SHRI GHS Morpirla

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

PM SHRI Government High School, Morpirla organised a comprehensive Drug Awareness and Cyber Security session aimed at educating students about health, safety, and responsible behaviour both offline and online.

The drug awareness session was conducted by Police Sub Inspector Sudan Bhosle and Police Constable Ramesh Pathar from Cuncolim Police Station. The officers sensitised students to the serious dangers of drug abuse and its long-term impact on physical health, mental well-being, and future prospects. The session highlighted how substance abuse can lead to addiction, social issues, and irreversible life consequences, while encouraging students to resist peer pressure and make informed, positive choices.

In addition, students were briefed on traffic rules and road safety, with emphasis on following regulations, wearing helmets, and practising safe driving habits to prevent accidents and ensure personal safety.

The programme also included a cyber security awareness session, focusing on safe online practices, identifying cyber threats, protecting personal data, and responsible use of social media and digital platforms. Both students and teachers were guided on how to stay alert and secure in an increasingly digital world.

Students actively participated throughout the session by asking questions and sharing their thoughts, making the interaction lively and engaging. Overall, the programme proved to be informative and empowering, equipping students with essential knowledge to lead safe, responsible, and healthy lives.

EduConnect

500 NCC Cadets from 25 Goan Institutions Participate in Annual Training Camp at Pernem

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The Annual Training Camp of the 1 Goa Naval Unit NCC is currently underway at the Multipurpose Sports Stadium in Pernem, bringing together around 500 NCC cadets from 25 educational institutions across Goa. The camp is being conducted under the command of Capt. Sumeet Sinha, Commanding Officer of the unit, and serves as a key platform for holistic cadet development.

Designed in keeping with the ethos of the National Cadet Corps, the camp focuses on enhancing physical fitness, mental alertness, social awareness, and a strong sense of unity and camaraderie among participants. Cadets from diverse institutions train together, fostering teamwork, discipline, and mutual respect.

The training programme includes a range of activities aimed at developing leadership and overall personality. Cadets undergo weapon handling sessions, boat pulling practice on simulators, semaphore training, and attend lectures on various service-related subjects that build awareness of defence forces and national service.

The smooth conduct of the camp has been made possible with the active support of the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Goa, whose logistical assistance has played a crucial role. Camp administration is being efficiently managed by a dedicated team comprising Permanent Instructional staff, State Government staff, and Associate NCC Officers.

Through structured training and shared experiences, the Annual Training Camp continues to shape young cadets into disciplined, confident, and socially responsible citizens, reinforcing the NCC’s commitment to nation-building and youth empowerment.

EduConnect

Powering Futures: Vedanta Honours Bicholim Scholars at ‘Utkarsh’ Event

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Reaffirming its commitment to education and youth empowerment, Vedanta Sesa Goa – Iron Ore Goa (IOG), under Project ‘Vriddhi’, organised the Vedanta ‘Utkarsh’ Scholarship Programme for the financial year 2025–26 at Bicholim. The initiative aims to support meritorious students from mining-affected and rural communities in pursuing higher education and building sustainable futures.

The programme, held at the Bicholim Municipality Hall, saw nearly 30 students from villages across Bicholim Taluka being felicitated and extended financial support through the Vedanta Utkarsh Scholarship. The event was graced by Ms. Shridevi B. V., IPS, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Bicholim, along with Mr. Vijay Natekar, Chairperson of the Bicholim Municipal Council, Mr. Dhirajkumar Jagdish, Deputy CEO – Iron Ore Goa, and Mr. Santosh Mandrekar, Head Operations – North and Central Cluster.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Shridevi B. V., IPS, highlighted the transformative role of education, stating that when organisations invest in education, they contribute directly to nation-building. She noted that the Vedanta ‘Utkarsh’ Scholarship is a meaningful intervention that empowers students to rise above limitations and pursue their aspirations with confidence and discipline.

Mr. Vijay Natekar, Chairperson of the Bicholim Municipal Council, emphasised the importance of sustained educational support for community progress. He appreciated Vedanta Sesa Goa’s consistent community development efforts, noting that such initiatives create opportunities for deserving students while strengthening the region’s social fabric.

Reflecting on the programme’s impact, Mr. Dhirajkumar Jagdish, Deputy CEO – Iron Ore Goa, said education plays a critical role in transforming lives and communities. Through the Vedanta ‘Utkarsh’ Scholarship, he said, the company seeks to ensure that students from areas surrounding its operations receive the necessary support to pursue higher education, reinforcing Vedanta Sesa Goa’s commitment to meaningful and inclusive growth.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries, scholarship recipient Ms. Sadiya Choudhary, a B.Com student at Narayan Zantye College of Commerce, shared that the scholarship had significantly eased her financial burden. She noted that while she had been conducting tuition classes alongside her studies to support her education, the scholarship has allowed her to focus more fully on her academic goals and support her family.

To date, the Vedanta Utkarsh Scholarship has benefited over 1,200 students across Vedanta Sesa Goa’s operational areas. The company’s initiatives under Project ‘Vriddhi’ continue to reflect its long-term commitment to education, youth development and inclusive socio-economic progress within the communities it serves.