Tag: Academic Excellence

EduConnect

Brain Box Institute Honours Young Achievers at Annual Award-Giving Ceremony in Assolna

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Brain Box Institute organised its Annual Award-Giving Ceremony in Assolna to recognise and celebrate academic excellence and dedication among students from various schools in the surrounding region. The event witnessed the presence of educators, parents, students, and distinguished guests, creating an atmosphere of pride and encouragement for young achievers.

The programme commenced with a prayer led by Reverend Fr. Romeo Godinho and Fr. Myron Fernandes, followed by the rendition of the National Anthem. The Chief Guest for the occasion, Dr. Dipak C. S. Gaitonde, Chairman of the Directorate of Technical Education, Government of Goa, was warmly welcomed and felicitated upon his arrival. The ceremony was further graced by the presence of the Honourable MLA of Velim Constituency, Mr. Cruz Silva, along with parish representatives, adding significance to the gathering.

While introducing the Chief Guest, speakers highlighted Dr. Gaitonde’s distinguished journey as an academician, environmental scientist, and administrator, underlining his contributions to education and environmental governance in the state. His presence served as an inspiration to both students and educators in attendance.

The audience was also briefed on the history of the Brain Box Scholarship Award, an initiative instituted by Mr. Anthony D’Silva, Director of Brain Box Institute, in loving memory of his late parents. What began as a modest effort supporting students from a single school has steadily grown over the years and now benefits deserving students from eleven schools in the vicinity.

Adding a cultural dimension to the ceremony, a musical performance by Ms. Jazel was presented, drawing appreciation from the audience. The highlight of the event was the award distribution ceremony, conducted by Dr. Gaitonde, where students were recognised for their perseverance, discipline, and academic achievements.

In his address, the Chief Guest encouraged students to pursue excellence with dedication, integrity, and a sense of responsibility, emphasising the importance of education in shaping both individual futures and society at large. The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. Anthony D’Silva, marking the successful culmination of an inspiring and meaningful celebration of learning and achievement.

EduConnect

Gold Medal Glory for Goa: Two Goan Postgraduates Shine at National Convocation

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa continues to make its mark on the national academic stage as two Goan postgraduates in horticulture have been honoured with Gold Medals at the 14th Convocation of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences (SHUATS), Prayagraj, held on 17th October 2025.

Mr. Utkarsh Radhika Krishnanath Sawant Dessai from Curchorem, who completed his M.Sc. in Horticulture (Post Harvest Management), and Ms. Reema Riya Ravindra Naik from Mandrem, who pursued M.Sc. in Horticulture (Fruit Science), were recognised for their exceptional academic performance and dedication to their field.

Their achievements not only bring pride to their families and institutions but also highlight the growing academic excellence emerging from Goa in the fields of horticulture and agricultural sciences. These young achievers embody the potential of Goan students who are pursuing higher education with passion, innovation, and purpose — representing a new generation of scientific thinkers dedicated to sustainability and food security.

The honour at SHUATS’ convocation is especially significant, given the university’s national reputation for excellence in agricultural education and research. The recognition underscores the importance of Goa’s contribution to India’s expanding horticultural and agricultural sectors.

This achievement is a moment of pride for both Mandrem and Curchorem, and a reminder that the youth of Goa continue to shine brightly on national platforms — inspiring others to pursue excellence in education, research, and innovation.

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.

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Southeast Bank Honors 53 Meritorious Students of Employees for Academic Excellence

Tanisha Cardozo

Southeast Bank PLC. proudly celebrated the outstanding academic achievements of 53 meritorious students, all of whom are children of the Bank’s dedicated employees. These students earned remarkable results in 2025—securing GPA-5 in the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) exams and achieving six A Grades in their O-Level examinations.

To honor their hard work and excellence, the Bank organized a special award ceremony filled with pride, joy, and celebration. The event served as a platform to not only appreciate the students but also to recognize the unwavering support of their families. Students were presented with crests, certificates, and thoughtful gifts as tokens of appreciation. The occasion aimed to uplift the morale of employees and reinforce a culture of academic encouragement and family value within the Bank.

The prestigious event was graced by the honorable Chairman of Southeast Bank, Mr. M. A. Kashem, who attended as the Chief Guest. He personally handed over the awards to the students and delivered an inspiring speech. In his remarks, he lauded the dedication, focus, and perseverance of the students and acknowledged the crucial role played by parents and families in nurturing such success.

“Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders. Their achievements reflect not only personal excellence but also the nurturing environment provided by their families and institutions. Southeast Bank takes pride in celebrating and supporting such brilliance,” said Mr. Kashem.

This initiative marked a historic moment for Southeast Bank as it was the first such recognition program in the Bank’s history. It was widely applauded across all levels of the organization. The celebration fostered a deep sense of pride and happiness among employees, highlighting the Bank’s genuine investment in the well-being and success of its workforce and their families.

Since taking office, Mr. M. A. Kashem has championed a number of employee-focused initiatives, including comprehensive insurance services and now this landmark felicitation program. These programs underscore the Bank’s broader commitment to employee welfare, educational development, and corporate social responsibility.

The ceremony concluded on a high note with words of encouragement for the young achievers, motivating them to continue striving for excellence in all their future academic and professional pursuits.

EduConnect

JCI Ponda’s Junior Wing Conducts JCSAT Exam 2025 to Foster Academic Excellence

Tanisha Cardozo

Ponda, Goa: In a resounding initiative to promote academic excellence and intellectual growth among school students, the Junior Jaycee Wing of JCI Ponda successfully conducted the JCSAT Exam 2025 on August 23, 2025.

Hosted across two vibrant centers — Mahatma Gandhi Centenary School, Gaunem-Bandora, and Shiksha Sadan High School, Priol — the examination drew 130 enthusiastic participants from 6th to 10th standard, all eager to challenge their knowledge and embrace the spirit of competition.

The JCSAT (Jaycee Competitive Scholastic Aptitude Test) is designed to test general awareness, problem-solving, and academic reasoning, and is a signature initiative by the Junior Jaycee wing under JCI’s youth development programs.

Key Highlights:

  • 📍 Venues: Mahatma Gandhi Centenary School (Gaunem-Bandora) & Shiksha Sadan High School (Priol)
  • 🧠 Participants: 130 students from Classes 6 to 10
  • 🌟 Focus Areas: Academic aptitude, analytical skills, and personal growth through competition

This initiative reflects JCI Ponda’s commitment to building young leaders, sharpening their academic acumen, and encouraging healthy competition that fosters confidence and curiosity.

Leadership Behind the Event:

  • 👨‍💼 JC Vadiraj Inamdar – President
  • 🧑‍💼 JFM Muskan Naik – Secretary
  • 👦 JR JC Shrinivas Inamdar – Junior JC Chairperson
  • 👦 JR JC Shreeshant Upadhye – Project Coordinator

Their coordinated efforts, along with the support of the host schools, ensured a smooth, engaging, and impactful event.

“This is not just an exam; it’s an opportunity for students to explore their strengths and believe in their potential,” said JC Vadiraj Inamdar.

With such meaningful initiatives, JCI Ponda continues to play a vital role in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow — one student at a time.