EduConnect

Advanced TV Anchoring Workshop in Goa: Master the Camera with Expert Training


An Advanced TV Anchoring Workshop is set to take place in Goa, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring anchors, media students, and communication enthusiasts to gain practical, hands-on experience in a professional environment. Designed to bridge the gap between theory and real-world media practice, the workshop promises to build confidence, camera presence, and on-screen communication skills.

Participants will get the chance to master teleprompter techniques, one of the most essential skills for television presenters. The workshop also includes a real studio walkthrough, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at how television sets operate, from lighting and camera placement to live recording environments.

In addition to technical training, the session will focus on advanced anchoring techniques, helping participants improve voice modulation, body language, script delivery, and audience engagement. A special highlight of the workshop is the interaction with a guest anchor, who will share industry insights, experiences, and practical tips from the world of television and media.

The workshop fee is set at ₹5,000, with an early bird offer of ₹4,300 available until 14 February 2026. Registrations close on 20 February 2026, and with only five seats available, the session is expected to fill up quickly.

Interested participants can register by contacting 7507051512. The limited-seat format ensures personalized guidance and a focused learning experience, making it an ideal platform for those serious about building a career in television or improving their public speaking and presentation skills.

EduConnect

IGNITE 1.0: Overnight Leadership and Communication Boot Camp


The Department of Mass Communication and Journalism organised IGNITE 1.0, an overnight leadership and communication boot camp held on 6 and 7 December 2025 at Salesians of Don Bosco, Odxel. Designed around the theme of “learn, unlearn and lead,” the camp aimed to strengthen students’ communication abilities, teamwork skills and interpersonal growth. A total of 23 students from the FY, SY and TY batches participated in the programme.

The camp opened with a session on problem-solving, critical thinking and social etiquette, where students were encouraged to understand their core selves, communicate effectively and recognise how perspectives differ among individuals. Interactive activities, including a team-entangling challenge, highlighted leadership, patience and collective progress, while also drawing attention to the role of body language, social cues and respectful communication.

The second session focused on leadership, teamwork and time management, using collaborative exercises to demonstrate the importance of coordination, clear goals and working toward a shared vision. Students were encouraged to dream ambitiously while learning how effective time management supports both personal and professional growth. The day concluded with a shared barbecue dinner and recreation, fostering bonding and camaraderie.

The second day began with a morning beach activity followed by a reflective prayer session that emphasised balancing future aspirations with living meaningfully in the present. Students were reminded of the determination required to pursue purposeful goals while remaining grounded in the moment.

A session on building meaningful connections highlighted the importance of authenticity, active listening and empathy in both personal and professional relationships. Through guided reflection and interactive exercises, students explored self-awareness, emotional resilience and the question of personal identity.

The final session centred on kindness and empathy, encouraging students to reflect on their place in the world, their awareness of others and how their individual skills can contribute positively to society. Through paired discussions and thoughtful activities, participants were guided toward a deeper understanding of compassion and responsibility.

IGNITE 1.0 concluded as a meaningful and transformative experience, offering students a safe and engaging space to develop essential life skills, strengthen bonds and grow as future communicators by learning, unlearning and discovering themselves along the way.

EduConnect

Carmel College Hosts State-Level Workshop on Effective Communication for Students


Carmel College of Arts, Science, and Commerce for Women, Nuvem, hosted a One-Day State-Level Workshop on Effective Communication on 20 August 2025. Conceptualized by the Department of English in collaboration with Ms. Mariette Valsan, a seasoned communications professional with expertise in public relations and corporate communication, the workshop offered a vibrant space for students to grow their interpersonal and professional communication abilities.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Brian Mendonca, Convenor of the event, highlighted how communication is often underestimated despite being a crucial life skill. Dr. Aldina Braganza e Gomes, Officiating Principal, in her welcome address, emphasized the importance of being intentional in both speech and silence. She remarked, “You can communicate by speaking, you can communicate by being silent.” Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Head of the Department of English, shared the department’s vision and initiatives, and formally felicitated the guest speaker. Ms. Valsan expressed her excitement about engaging with students at Carmel and gave a brief overview of the day’s activities. The programme was anchored by Danielle, while Joanne delivered the vote of thanks.

The day was packed with insightful activities designed to challenge students to reflect on their individual communication styles and unlock their strengths. Whether through team-building games or story-driven presentations, Ms. Valsan’s approach kept participants fully engaged. Her ability to connect with the students through relatable anecdotes made the session not just informative but also inspiring. Participants unanimously agreed that the workshop offered a refreshing perspective on communication—transforming it from a theoretical concept into a practical, lived experience.

The event showcased how Carmel College continues to provide holistic education, blending academics with essential life skills that prepare students to navigate both careers and communities with confidence.

Human Interest

JCI Ponda Hosts Memorable Valedictory Ceremony of Speechcraft 2025


Celebrating Communication, Confidence & Leadership at Its Best

Ponda, Goa | May 2025 — JCI Ponda proudly hosted the Valedictory Ceremony of Speechcraft 2025, marking the culmination of a transformative journey in communication, leadership, and personal development. The event brought together aspiring speakers, mentors, and dignitaries to celebrate the incredible progress of participants who committed themselves to growth and self-expression through the powerful platform of Speechcraft.

The evening was elevated by the presence of Chief Guest Shri Advocate Narendra Sawaikar, whose words of wisdom and encouragement resonated deeply with both the participants and attendees. His address emphasized the importance of communication as a cornerstone of effective leadership and public engagement, inspiring many young minds in the audience.

A special note of appreciation was extended to the driving forces behind Speechcraft 2025:

  • Pilot Faculty: JFM Hitesh Giriya
  • Co-Pilot Faculties: JC Dattaram Bicholkar and JC Anju Desai

Their commitment to mentoring and nurturing the participants played a pivotal role in transforming nervous speakers into confident communicators.

The presence of Zone President JFD Shaba Gauns and Acting Chairman of Speechcraft, JC HGF Dr. Shilpa Raghava Silveria, further added prestige to the event. Their support and words of encouragement reaffirmed the role of JCI in fostering leadership and self-development among youth.

The true stars of the evening were the participants of Speechcraft 2025, who impressed with their command over speech, poise, and presence. A special congratulations to our top five standout participants:

  • JC Vadiraj
  • JC Juhi
  • JC Jijith
  • JC Khyati
  • JC Bhushan

In addition, accolades were awarded to Outstanding Performers who truly raised the bar with their impactful oration:

  • JC Ansh
  • JC Amit
  • JC Sahil

Each participant received recognition not just for their final performances, but for their personal journeys of improvement, confidence-building, and camaraderie throughout the course.

The success of Speechcraft 2025 was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the entire JCI Ponda team. From planning to execution, every element was meticulously crafted to provide a platform for growth and inspiration.

“This journey was not just about learning to speak — it was about finding your voice and learning to lead with it,” said JC Saikrishna Mandrekar, Chairman of Speechcraft 2025.

The event was ably supported by:

  • JFD Shaba Gauns, Zone President
  • JC Vadiraj Inamdar, President, JCI Ponda 2025
  • JFM Muskan Naik, Secretary & Project Director

The Speechcraft program, long considered a flagship initiative within the JCI ecosystem, once again proved its value in empowering individuals to overcome stage fright, express ideas effectively, and lead with confidence. With each passing year, JCI Ponda continues to nurture the next generation of changemakers through programs like these.

As the curtains fell on Speechcraft 2025, the message was clear — communication is not just a skill, it’s a superpower, and every participant left the hall empowered to use it.

Events in Goa

Speechcraft 2025 Inaugurated with Grandeur at Seasons Hotel & Spa, Goa


Margao, Goa | May 23, 2025 — The serene ambiance of the Seasons Hotel & Spa in Fatorda, Margao, became the cradle of transformation as JCI Ponda, under the umbrella of JCI India Zone 11, inaugurated its much-awaited flagship initiative — Speechcraft 2025. This prestigious 3-day residential public speaking and leadership development program officially commenced on the evening of May 23, 2025, amidst an atmosphere of inspiration, enthusiasm, and excellence.


Speechcraft is more than just a training program — it is a journey of personal empowerment, where participants step out of their comfort zones to explore the art of impactful communication, develop their self-confidence, and emerge as responsible and articulate leaders.

With over 50 eager participants in attendance, Speechcraft 2025 began with a resounding message: that communication is the cornerstone of leadership and transformation.

The inaugural session was honored by the presence of Dr. Ketan Bhatikar as the Chief Guest. A well-respected educationist, visionary entrepreneur, and motivational speaker, Dr. Bhatikar addressed the gathering with words that were both empowering and thought-provoking. He emphasized the importance of public speaking as a lifelong skill and urged participants to embrace learning with an open heart and fearless mind.

Also gracing the event was JFD Shaba Gauns, Zone President of JCI India Zone 11, whose presence uplifted the morale of the organizing team and added immense value to the proceedings. Her commitment to youth empowerment and structured learning was echoed in her address to the participants.

The session was chaired by the Program Chairman, JFM Saikrishna Mandrekar, whose tireless dedication and visionary leadership brought Speechcraft 2025 to life. He welcomed the dignitaries, introduced the objectives of the program, and set the tone for a transformative weekend ahead.

True to JCI’s legacy of quality and mentorship, Speechcraft 2025 is powered by a faculty team of seasoned and passionate trainers:

  • JFM Hitesh Giriya – National Trainer
  • JC HGF Anju Dessai – Co-Pilot
  • JCI Senator Dattaram Bicholkar – Co-Pilot

Together, they bring a wealth of experience, infectious energy, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing future leaders.

A special highlight of the inaugural function was the release of the event souvenir, unveiled at the hands of all the dignitaries. This symbolic moment marked the beginning of what promises to be a transformational experience for every participant.

With a meticulously curated curriculum, interactive learning sessions, real-time speaking opportunities, and values of self-discipline and collaboration at its core, Speechcraft 2025 is poised to shape confident orators, thoughtful communicators, and responsible citizens of tomorrow.

“This program is a mission — a mission to instill courage, voice, and character in every participant. We believe that strong communication leads to strong communities.”
JFM Saikrishna Mandrekar, Chairman, SpeechCraft 2025

“We are proud to support initiatives that create real, measurable impact. Speechcraft is a cornerstone of leadership development in JCI.”
JFD Shaba Gauns, Zone President 2025

“JCI Ponda is honored to host this program and contribute to the vision of building better leaders through better communication.”
JC Vadiraj Inamdar, President, JCI Ponda

“Behind every success story is a platform like Speechcraft. We’re proud to be the team behind it.”
JFM Muskan Naik, Project Director

As the sun set on the first day, the spark of self-belief had already ignited among participants. With every session, interaction, and speech, the next three days promise to shape leaders who speak not just with words — but with vision, empathy, and conviction.

Stay tuned for more updates from the heart of Speechcraft 2025 – where voices rise, and futures are shaped.