A proud moment for Goa — Chinmayee Vallabh Prabhu Dessai, a native of Tarvale, Shiroda, has successfully defended her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biomedical Engineering from the prestigious Boston University, USA.
Chinmayee joined Boston University in 2020, embarking on a rigorous journey of research and innovation under the expert mentorship of Prof. Ji-Xin Cheng, a global name in biomedical imaging and photonics.
Her research contributes to the evolving field of biomedical engineering — a discipline at the intersection of science, engineering, and medicine — with wide-ranging applications in healthcare technologies.
Chinmayee’s story is a glowing example of how local roots can lead to global breakthroughs. As a woman in STEM, her achievement reflects not just academic success but also the growing participation and excellence of Indian women in international scientific domains.
This success story is an inspiration for young minds in Goa and beyond who aspire to pursue research and innovation at a global level.
Dr Roque G Wiseman Pinto, renowned Professor of Pathology and former Dean at Goa University, proudly represented India at the prestigious 22nd International Congress of Cytology held in Florence, Italy, from May 11 to 15 at the historic Fortezza da Basso. The global event, jointly organized by the International Academy of Cytology (IAC) and SIAPEC, brought together 750 delegates from 66 countries, including a contingent of 25 Indian participants, highlighting the global collaboration in the evolving field of cytopathology.
Invited as Chairman and Faculty, Dr Pinto was entrusted with leading three key scientific sessions, which focused on:
Salivary Gland Cytopathology (Milan System)
Cytopathology of Infectious Diseases
Fungal Infections in Cytology
Beyond his chairing responsibilities, Dr Pinto was an active participant in several high-level meetings of the IAC (International Academy of Cytology) and the European Federation of Cytology Societies (EFCS), contributing valuable perspectives on behalf of the Indian medical community. Notably, he was also a speaker at the IAC Social Media Symposium, where he addressed the global impact of cytopathology, its advantages over histopathology, and the growing role of digital engagement in India’s pathology landscape.
The congress was led by Dr Fernando Schmitt (Luxembourg) as the Congress President, with Dr Guido Fadda (Italy) heading the Local Organising Committee. Other distinguished Indian faculty members at the event included Dr Radhika S, Dr B Rekhi, and Dr Nalini Gupta, further showcasing India’s prominence in the field.
The conference, accredited by the IAC, EFCS, and the Italian Society of Pathology, served as a vibrant platform for exchange of cutting-edge research, technological innovation, and international collaboration. The next edition of the Congress will be held in South Korea in 2028.
Indian-American student Faizan Zaki, 13, from Texas, has emerged as the champion of the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee after correctly spelling the word “éclaircissement.” His victory continues the long-standing tradition of Indian-American excellence in the prestigious U.S. competition.
Zaki, a seventh-grader at C M Rice Middle School, outlasted more than 240 competitors from across the nation to claim the top spot. He defeated fellow finalist Sarvadnya Kadam in the final round held on Thursday night, winning the Scripps Cup, a $50,000 cash prize, a trophy, and a medal in the Bee’s 100th edition.
This marks a major comeback for Zaki, who finished as the runner-up in the 2024 Bee after a spell-off against Bruhat Soma, another Indian-American competitor.
Nine-year-old author Rachel Jasmina Dias celebrated her first book signing event at Bookends Store in Dubai on February 9, marking a significant milestone in her young literary career. The enthusiastic crowd was captivated by Rachel’s determination and creativity, and she inspired many with her passion for storytelling.
“It feels so surreal to be here, meeting all of these people who want to read my book ‘Rose Never Gives Up’,” Rachel exclaimed. “I’m so happy people like my story! I’ve always loved writing and making up stories, and I really hope kids will enjoy reading it as much as I loved writing it.”
Rachel’s book, “Rose Never Gives Up,” tells the story of a young girl who learns the value of perseverance and never giving up. The book aims to teach children the importance of resilience and determination in overcoming challenges.
During the event, Rachel participated in a fun interactive reading session, where she read her book to an enthusiastic audience of children. She also asked the children to share their own experiences of overcoming obstacles and never giving up.
Attendees were given the chance to ask Rachel questions about her book and her writing process, and many walked away with personalized autographs. Rachel’s parents, Terrence and Remediana (Remy) Dias, were beaming with pride as they watched their daughter’s dream become a reality.
“Rachel is a shining example of the incredible potential young minds have,” said Grace Chaoul Karim, founder of Bookends store. “She’s shown that age doesn’t define talent or creativity.”
Rachel expressed gratitude to everyone who supported her journey. “I’m just getting started,” she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Who knows what’s next? Maybe another book!”
Rachel’s next story reading session will be at St Mary’s Catechism class in Dubai on February 15 at 1:45 pm.
In addition to her writing, Rachel has also set up the Rachel Foundation, which aims to improve the lives of disadvantaged children by providing inspiring book collections to underfunded schools, libraries, and organizations across Goa and other developing countries.
Incidentally, Rachel and her twin brother, Troy, are award-winning swimmers who hail from Margao and presently study in a British school in Dubai. Their father, Terrence, played cricket for Goa, while their mother, Remy, was a former teacher at Manovikas School in Margao.
With her passion for storytelling and her commitment to giving back to her community, Rachel Jasmina Dias is an inspiration to children and adults alike.
