EduConnect

World Ozone Day Celebrated at PM SHRI GHS Morpirla with Creative Climate Action Activities


PM SHRI GHS Morpirla joined the global observance of World Ozone Day with a meaningful celebration focused on the theme “Advancing Climate Action.” The school organized a series of engaging activities, including headgear making, poetry recitation, and poster competitions that allowed students to creatively express their understanding of ozone protection and environmental sustainability.

Teachers used the occasion to educate students on the critical role of the ozone layer in shielding the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. They stressed the importance of eliminating chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), commonly found in cooling systems, which contribute significantly to ozone depletion and global warming.

The celebration also brought attention to the growing challenge of rising global temperatures and the increasing dependency on cooling technologies—creating a feedback loop that worsens climate change. Educators urged students to be mindful of their environmental impact and inspired them to become active participants in climate action.

Through interactive participation and awareness-driven messaging, the event not only commemorated the importance of the ozone layer but also served as a platform to reinforce the urgent need to protect the planet for future generations.

EduConnect

Dr. Onward O. Ognita Honored with Gawad Banyuhay Award for Transformative Leadership in Teacher Education


Lauded for his transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to educational excellence, Dr. Onward O. Ognita, Dean of the College of Teacher Education (CTED) at Naga College Foundation, Inc. (NCF), was honored with the Gawad Banyuhay—Committed Education Builders Award by the Carl E. Balita Review Center (CBRC) on September 7, 2025, at the Albay Astrodome.

The award recognizes educators who embody the values of innovation, vision, adaptability, and social responsibility—qualities that Dr. Ognita has consistently demonstrated throughout his career. His leadership at CTED has brought forward significant strides in curriculum innovation, faculty development, and student engagement, making him a deserving recipient of one of the highest honors for educators in the Philippines.

The term “Banyuhay” is a blend of “bago” (new), “anyo” (form), and “buhay” (life)—a powerful concept that symbolizes transformation and growth. CBRC’s Gawad Banyuhay Award pays tribute to individuals who bring about meaningful change in education and society, guiding others through vision, action, and impact.

Dr. Ognita now joins the ranks of distinguished NCF leaders who have received this recognition. In previous years, Mr. Mario C. Villanueva, NCF President, and Dr. Stanley O. Dy, Dean and AVP for Health Sciences, were also honored for their outstanding contributions to education—under the merits of “Katatagan” (Resilience) and “Mapag-unlad na Ugnayan” (Progressive Relationships), respectively.

The entire NCF community proudly celebrates this latest achievement and extends its heartfelt congratulations to Lieutenant Dr. Onward O. Ognita, whose leadership continues to inspire a generation of educators and learners to pursue excellence, innovation, and service.

EduConnect

PM Shri GHS Celebrates Hindi Diwas With Cultural Competitions


PM Shri GHS came alive with patriotic energy as it celebrated Hindi Diwas, a day dedicated to honoring Hindi as the cornerstone of India’s cultural and linguistic identity.

The event was marked by a series of engaging competitions designed to showcase students’ creativity and love for the language. Students participated enthusiastically in slogan writing, essay competitions, speeches, and dance performances, all centered on the theme of Hindi Diwas and the importance of preserving linguistic heritage.

Teachers and organizers highlighted how Hindi continues to bind the nation together, transcending regions and reflecting the essence of India’s unity in diversity. The vibrant dance performances and powerful speeches further underlined the significance of the day.

Hindi Diwas is observed annually on September 14, commemorating the adoption of Hindi as one of India’s official languages in 1949. At PM Shri GHS, the celebration was more than just a ritual; it was a heartfelt tribute to the richness of Hindi and its role in shaping India’s cultural identity.

The event concluded with words of encouragement from the school leadership, motivating students to take pride in their language and heritage.

EduConnect

Independent Candidate Shibani Wins at VM Salgaocar College of Law, Goa Student Elections


VM Salgaocar College of Law, Goa (Miramar, Panaji) witnessed a vibrant democratic exercise as the student council elections for the academic year 2025–26 concluded this week.

Independent candidate Shibani emerged victorious, showcasing the strong support for independent student leadership. Alongside her, the winning panel led by Mr. Swayam Faldessai secured a decisive 240 votes, ensuring their place at the helm of student affairs for the upcoming academic year.

The elections saw enthusiastic participation from the student community, reflecting the college’s vibrant culture of debate, leadership, and engagement. Members of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and faculty extended their congratulations, commending the newly elected council for taking on this responsibility.

The results mark a new beginning for VM Salgaocar College of Law’s student body as they prepare to take forward initiatives aimed at student welfare, academic excellence, and co-curricular growth.

Congratulations to Shibani, Swayam Faldessai, and the entire elected panel for their achievement!

EduConnect

St. Thomas HSS Aldona Hosts All Goa News Presentation Contest, Budding Anchors Shine Bright


St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona, in association with its Parent Teachers’ Association, organized the All Goa Inter-Higher Secondary School News Presentation Competition on 13th September 2025. Held in the school’s auditorium, the contest was themed “Voices of Hope: News that Inspires, Uplifts, and Ignites Optimism.”

Fifteen higher secondary schools from across Goa participated in the unique and uplifting event, presenting news stories through PowerPoint-supported segments designed to inspire, inform, and engage. The competition was a showcase of creativity, confidence, and storytelling prowess, as student anchors brought a wave of positive journalism to the stage.

The event’s Chief Guest, Shri Promod Acharya, Editorial Director of Prudent Media Network, commended the participants’ outstanding efforts. He noted that several presentations surpassed the quality of professional news anchoring and emphasized the power young voices have to shape public sentiment by choosing to tell stories that bring hope. “Readers decide what becomes news,” he reminded the participants, urging them to spread optimism in their storytelling.

Joining the jury were media professionals Ms. Alisha Caraline Fernandes, Producer at Rashtra TV, and Ms. Nitiksha Mahadev Gaonkar, Reporter at Goa 365 News Channel, who brought their expertise in evaluating both content and presentation.

The winners of the event were:

1st Place – Ms. Juyee Manesh Gawas from Vasantrao Dempo HSS, Cujira

2nd Place – Ms. Carol Fernandes from St. Thomas HSS, Aldona

3rd Place – Mast. Yash Jagdish Durbhatkar from St. Andrew’s HSS, Vasco

1st Consolation – Ms. Chetana Naik from Dr. K.B. Hedgewar HSS, Cujira

2nd Consolation – Ms. Meagan Grace Dias from G.V.M.’s SNJA HSS, Ponda

All participants were presented with certificates of appreciation, while the winners received trophies, certificates, and cash prizes in recognition of their hard work and excellence.

The contest was efficiently coordinated by Sir Daryl John Abranches and Tr. Lavina Pereira, with wholehearted support from the teaching and non-teaching staff and an enthusiastic team of student volunteers. Principal Angelica Fernandes expressed heartfelt thanks to all participants, judges, guests, and supporting schools, affirming that the event had successfully highlighted the emerging voices of young journalists in Goa.

The Management of St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona extended special appreciation to all participating institutions for their contributions in making the event a meaningful celebration of positivity and youth-driven journalism.