Category: EduConnect

EduConnect

Prof. (Dr.) Karuna Gokarn Appointed as First Woman Principal of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

allycaralgoa

Mumbai, October 2025: In a landmark development for one of India’s most prestigious educational institutions, Prof. (Dr.) Karuna Gokarn has been appointed as the Principal of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai (subject to University and Government approval). This appointment marks a historic milestone, as Dr. Gokarn becomes the first woman to lead the college in its 156-year history since its establishment in 1869.

A senior faculty member of the Department of Microbiology, Dr. Gokarn has been associated with the institution for many years, contributing significantly to its academic and administrative progress. In her previous roles as Vice Principal (Academics) and Director of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), she demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision.

Dr. Gokarn also served as the NEP Nodal Officer, playing a key role in the successful implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ensuring that the college adapted seamlessly to new academic frameworks.

Her appointment is seen as a progressive step towards inclusive leadership in higher education, symbolizing the institution’s commitment to diversity and empowerment.

The college community has warmly congratulated Dr. Gokarn on her appointment, recognizing her dedication to academic innovation, holistic education, and student welfare.

As St. Xavier’s College embarks on a new chapter under her leadership, the institution looks forward to strengthening its legacy of excellence, while fostering an environment of equality, inspiration, and growth.

EduConnect

Goa College of Home Science Hosts Workshop on ‘Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies’

Tanisha Cardozo

In observance of World Mental Health Day 2025, Goa College of Home Science, in collaboration with the State Tele-MANAS Cell Goa, organized a thought-provoking workshop centered on this year’s global theme: ‘Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies’. The event emphasized the need for timely, accessible, and inclusive mental health care, especially during times of disaster, crisis, or public emergency.

The session brought together students, faculty, mental health professionals, and public health advocates to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by individuals during catastrophes — whether natural disasters, pandemics, conflicts, or displacement. It also highlighted the critical gaps in service access and the importance of telemedicine and remote psychological support systems, such as those enabled by the Tele-MANAS initiative, which was launched nationally to provide 24×7 mental health support.

Participants engaged in discussions on psychological first aid, trauma-informed care, and strategies for ensuring continuity of care during emergencies. The workshop also shed light on the growing mental health burden that arises during crises and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations such as children, women, elderly individuals, and people with pre-existing mental health conditions.

This timely initiative aligns with the World Health Organization’s global call to action, advocating for strong mental health infrastructures that are resilient and responsive to emergencies. By facilitating such knowledge-sharing platforms, Goa College of Home Science continues to play a proactive role in shaping a more empathetic and prepared society—one that recognizes mental health as a priority, even in the face of adversity.

As the world continues to navigate climate-related disasters, post-pandemic trauma, and geopolitical uncertainties, the workshop underscored that ensuring mental health services during catastrophes is not just a medical necessity but a humanitarian imperative.

EduConnect

St. Xavier’s College, Department of Psychology Celebrates Mental Health Day 2025: ‘Pathway to Support’

Tanisha Cardozo

On October 9, 2025, the Department of Psychology at St. Xavier’s College came together to host an engaging and impactful Mental Health Day celebration under the thoughtful theme “Pathway to Support: Because Every Mind Matters.” This annual initiative aimed to create awareness, spark meaningful dialogue, and promote emotional well-being among students, aligning with the global Sustainable Development Goal 3 – which advocates for good health and well-being for all, with an emphasis on mental health.

The day began with a warm and encouraging welcome by Dr. Eulalia Fernandes, the event coordinator, who was ably supported by student leaders Bethany Fernandes and Destiny D’Souza. Their meticulous planning and hands-on involvement helped shape the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere of the event. The presence of college dignitaries – Principal Ms. Ursula Barreto, Administrator Fr. Tony Salema, and Vice Principal Prof. Felipe Rodrigues e Melo – highlighted the institution’s strong commitment to fostering a mentally healthy campus.

The event featured a powerful mime performance that visually captured the struggles and hopes associated with mental health. This was followed by an engaging Open Mic session, offering students a platform to share stories, poems, and reflections in a safe and welcoming space. Certificates were also distributed to participants of a previously held poster-making competition, celebrating student creativity and awareness efforts. A keynote address by Fr. Tony Salema added depth to the occasion, as he shared insights on building a supportive and understanding environment for all.

As the day unfolded, interactive and reflective activities lined the college lobby, transforming it into a space of learning, sharing, and joy. The “Ping Pong Trivia” added a fun twist to mental health facts, while “Pop Your Insecurities” invited students to symbolically let go of their worries. The Art Table provided a space for creative self-expression, and the “Take What You Need” corner offered affirmation cards promoting hope, strength, and kindness. Activities like “Inside Out: Sorting Emotions,” the Affirmation Mirror, Mehendi Table, and Sticker Counter further enhanced self-awareness, relaxation, and peer connection.

The celebration concluded on a vibrant note with a high-energy flash mob that brought smiles and unity to the crowd, leaving behind a lasting reminder that mental health is not just personal, but communal.

Mental Health Day 2025 at St. Xavier’s College was not only a celebration, but a call to action — encouraging everyone to care for themselves and each other. The event successfully blended education, empathy, and entertainment, proving that even small moments of connection, creativity, and conversation can pave the way to a stronger, healthier community.

EduConnect

Young Innovators of PM SHRI GHS Morpirla Shine at Viksit Bharat Buildathon

Tanisha Cardozo

The students of PM SHRI GHS Morpirla took a bold step into the future with ideas powered by creativity, innovation, and a deep-rooted sense of patriotism. Participating in the nationwide Viksit Bharat Buildathon, launched by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, they prepared a series of impressive projects and prototypes.

The themes—Atmanirbhar Bharat, Swadeshi, Local for Local, and Samriddh Bharat—were brought to life through working models, thoughtful solutions, and impactful ideas. The buildathon served as a platform for students to channel their curiosity into real-world innovations that support India’s growth journey.

More than just a competition, the event was a celebration of India’s young thinkers and doers—students who understand the importance of self-reliance and are ready to shape a Viksit Bharat with their own hands.

The initiative exemplifies how empowered minds and creative hands can bring about meaningful change. PM SHRI GHS Morpirla stood out as a beacon of this vision, showcasing how schools can nurture innovation and patriotism together to build a stronger India.

EduConnect

Nutrition Garden: Growing Health and Happiness at Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar School

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At Smt. Sunandabai Bandodkar School, learning has taken root—literally! The school’s Nutrition Garden is an innovative initiative that connects children to nature, nutrition, and sustainability.

What began as a simple activity to promote healthy eating has blossomed into a vibrant outdoor classroom. Students actively plant and care for vegetables like cucumbers, turmeric, ladyfingers, and bananas, understanding where food comes from and why fresh, natural meals matter.

Aligned with the Government’s Poshan Maah initiative, the project emphasizes the importance of nutrition, health, and community well-being. Each gardening session teaches patience, teamwork, and responsibility, helping students discover that learning can be hands-on and joyful.

As harvest time arrives, excitement fills the air. Students proudly pick what they’ve grown and transform their produce into traditional Goan delicacies like Tavsholi (sweet made from cucumber), Patholi (sweet wrapped in turmeric leaves), and fresh salads. Each bite becomes a reminder that the “fruit of patience is sweet.”

The Nutrition Garden has grown beyond vegetables—it’s nurturing values, curiosity, and lifelong habits of mindful eating. With each seed planted, students are sowing lessons for a healthier, happier future. 🌿