Category: EduConnect

EduConnect

Empowering Talent: Students with Disabilities Craft Eco-Friendly Ganesh Idols at Sanjay Centre, Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

In a heartening display of inclusion, creativity, and sustainability, students at the Sanjay Centre for Special Education in Porvorim showcased their artistic talents at a Ganesh idol-making workshop organised by Mapusa Kalakirti in collaboration with Bal Bhavan Panaji. The event saw the presence of Subhash Phaldessai, Minister for Social Welfare and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, who commended the students for their craftsmanship and praised the efforts of teachers and parents who have nurtured their creative journey.

The workshop focused on producing eco-friendly Ganesh idols using pure shadu clay, a traditional material known for being water-soluble and environment-friendly. The students displayed idols modeled after iconic depictions like Lalbaugcha Raja and “Bappa Sitting on Undir,” reflecting their three years of commercial training. Under the guidance of Bal Bhavan instructors and dedicated teachers, students adopted modern techniques while honoring traditional rituals, producing beautifully detailed idols now available for public purchase at Sanjay Centre, Porvorim, for ₹2,000 each.

State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Guruprasad Pawaskar, proposed an exciting opportunity for the students to demonstrate their skills through a live street workstation during the upcoming International Purple Fest Goa 2025, scheduled for October 9–12. He further announced that, under Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant’s leadership, the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education will introduce Vocational Equivalency Certificates for persons with disabilities who cannot pursue conventional academic pathways—an important step toward formal recognition of skill-based education.

Prerna Pawaskar of Mapusa Kalakirti welcomed the gathering, sharing that such workshops are held annually, with this year’s edition focusing on commercial outcomes to promote entrepreneurship. Dignitaries present included Paulo Rodrigues, Accounts Officer, Sanjay School; Premanand Khumbar of Bal Bhavan; and Tatu Kudalkar, Headmaster, Sanjay School. Training was provided by teachers Ranjeeta Narvekar, Shri Deepesh Shetkar, Sanjay Mandrekar, and Ravi Harmalkar, while Shweta Harmalkar served as compere and delivered the vote of thanks.

The initiative stands as a powerful example of how inclusive platforms and focused vocational training can empower youth with disabilities—building both confidence and livelihood opportunities—while promoting sustainable cultural practices.

EduConnect

Lovely Professional University Bans Coca-Cola and American Soft Drinks on Campus

allycaralgoa

Phagwara: Lovely Professional University (LPU), one of India’s largest private universities, has made headlines with its recent decision to ban Coca-Cola and other American soft drink brands from its campus.

The move, which came into effect this week, is part of LPU’s broader initiative to promote healthy living and sustainable practices among its student community. University officials highlighted that the campus, home to thousands of students from across India and abroad, must set an example in discouraging the consumption of carbonated soft drinks known to have adverse health impacts.

Students will now be encouraged to choose healthier, local alternatives, including fresh juices, traditional Indian drinks, and herbal-based beverages. The administration believes this shift will not only benefit the health of its students but also support local beverage producers.

The ban has sparked wide discussions on social media, with many praising LPU for leading by example, while others question the feasibility of such restrictions.

This move places LPU among a growing number of Indian educational institutions taking proactive steps towards student well-being, sustainability, and cultural identity.

EduConnect

Vilas Satarkar to Receive National Teachers’ Award from Hon’ble President of India

Tanisha Cardozo

In a moment of immense pride for Goa, Shri Vilas Satarkar, Headmaster of K. B. Hedgewar High School, Cujira, has been selected for the prestigious National Teachers’ Award, presented by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

The award will be conferred upon him by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, in recognition of his exemplary contribution to the field of education and his lifelong commitment to nurturing young minds. This national recognition places Goa prominently on India’s education map and highlights the transformative role that dedicated educators play in shaping future generations.

Known for his visionary leadership, Shri Satarkar has worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of education, implement innovative teaching practices, and create a nurturing school environment that encourages curiosity, discipline, and holistic growth. His impact extends beyond classrooms, inspiring both students and fellow educators across the region.

The National Teachers’ Award is one of the highest honors bestowed on educators in India and is a testament to Shri Satarkar’s enduring passion for learning and teaching. His recognition serves as a beacon of inspiration for teachers everywhere and a proud moment for the entire state of Goa.

EduConnect

Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated with Great Fervour at Shri Mallikarjun Vidyalaya, Canacona

Tanisha Cardozo

Canacona, Goa: The spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi filled the air at Shri Mallikarjun Vidyalaya High School as students from the primary, high school, and higher secondary sections came together to celebrate one of India’s most beloved festivals with grandeur, devotion, and cultural pride.

The campus was abuzz with activities ranging from traditional performances to creative competitions. Students showcased their talent through mesmerizing Ghumat Aarti presentations and an energetic Ganesh dance, captivating audiences and reviving age-old Goan traditions.

In keeping with the festive spirit, the school organized a variety of competitions across junior and senior categories. These included:

  • Lord Ganesh Clay Idol Making
  • Ganesh Poster Painting
  • Chaturthi Special Homemade Sweet-Making

These competitions were generously sponsored by the Char Rasta Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Char Rasta, Canacona, who continue to encourage youth involvement in cultural heritage.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from all levels of schooling, with students turning out in large numbers and impressing judges with their creativity and devotion. A special prize distribution ceremony honored the winners and participants. Prizes were awarded by Chief Guest Shri Babuso Naik Gaonkar, President of the CPI General Assembly, and Guest of Honour Shri RBS Komarpant, Treasurer of the CPI Managing Committee.

The event also saw the active presence of:

  • Mrs. Varsha Naik Gaonkar, Headmaster of the High School
  • Mrs. Varsha Naik, Headmaster of the Primary Section
  • Mr. Vihar Dessai, Principal of the Higher Secondary Section

The celebrations were meticulously coordinated by school teachers Mr. Manoj Naik Gaonkar and Mr. Amol Pagi, whose dedication ensured that the event ran smoothly and was enjoyed by all.

Through such festivals, Shri Mallikarjun Vidyalaya continues to instill cultural values, creative expression, and community spirit among its students.

EduConnect

 DPM’s Shree Mallikarjun & Shri. Chetan Manju Desai College Wins Consolation Prize at Ghumat Mahasangam 4.0

Tanisha Cardozo

The rhythms of tradition and the spirit of youth came together as DPM’s Shree Mallikarjun & Shri. Chetan Manju Desai College team proudly clinched the Consolation Prize at the All Goa Ghumat Aarti Competition – Ghumat Mahasangam 4.0.

Organized by Ghumat Mogi in collaboration with Rajdeep Builders, this prestigious event brought together some of Goa’s finest cultural performers in a celebration of one of the state’s most beloved traditional art forms — Ghumat Aarti.

The team’s performance resonated with devotion, discipline, and deep-rooted cultural pride. Competing among top talents from across Goa, they stood out for their dedication and harmonious expression, earning recognition and applause.

This achievement is a testament not only to the musical talent of the students but also to the college’s commitment to preserving and promoting Goan heritage.

🎶 Congratulations to the entire team! Your hard work and passion continue to inspire and uplift Goa’s rich cultural traditions.