Tag: Dr Ashwin Fernandes

Events in Goa

Dr. Ashwin Fernandes’ PACT Foundation Launches #GoaSuper100 with Support from Anupam Kher and Sonu Sood

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa, India | August 11, 2025: In a powerful display of community-driven impact and visionary leadership, the PACT Foundation, led by renowned educationist Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, celebrated its 2nd Foundation Day on August 8 at Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias, Miramar, Goa. The evening witnessed the official launch of #GoaSuper100 — a game-changing undergraduate scholarship initiative designed to support 100 bright but underprivileged Goan students in pursuing higher education at top Indian universities.

The event was attended by two of India’s most respected figures — Anupam Kher, actor and motivational speaker, and Sonu Sood, actor and humanitarian — who joined Dr. Fernandes in unveiling the initiative and championing the power of education as a force for social change.

“We have seen firsthand how hope takes root when resources meet responsibility,” said Dr. Ashwin Fernandes. “Goa Super 100 is not just about financial aid — it’s about shaping future leaders grounded in values of equity, gratitude, and giving back.”

The Goa Super 100 program is a response to the growing challenge faced by many Goan students who, despite academic merit, are unable to pursue college due to financial constraints. This fully-funded program will cover tuition fees, living expenses, mentorship, and more — setting a new benchmark for educational equity in the state.

A Legacy of Impact: The Happy School Project

Since its inception in 2023, PACT Foundation has revitalised over 20 government schools in rural and semi-urban Goa through its Happy School Project, transforming the learning environment for more than 6,000 students. These schools now boast smart classrooms, libraries, safe sanitation, and vibrant play areas — embodying dignity, community, and child-centered education.

Voices of Support

In their keynote speeches, both Anupam Kher and Sonu Sood applauded the Foundation’s grassroots approach.

“Dreams matter. And when they are supported by people who care, anything is possible,” said Anupam Kher.
“Dr. Ashwin has brought his global experience to serve his home — and that is rare,” added Sonu Sood.

What’s Next

The Foundation Day concluded with a strong call to action from Dr. Fernandes, inviting individual donors, corporates, and Goan diaspora to join this movement — through donations, mentorship, and institutional partnerships. The application portal for Goa Super 100 will open soon, with the first cohort of scholars expected to begin college in the 2026–27 academic year.With #GoaSuper100, the PACT Foundation marks not just a milestone, but a mission — to unlock dreams and rebuild futures through education.

EduConnect

PACT Foundation Inaugurates Smart Classrooms at Don Bosco Youth Welfare Centre Under Happy School Project

allycaralgoa

Verla-Parra, Goa – June 2025: In a heartening step towards making education more inclusive, engaging, and future-ready, the PACT Foundation, under the leadership of Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, has inaugurated newly refurbished smart classrooms at the Don Bosco Youth Welfare Centre in Verla-Parra, Goa. The initiative is part of the Foundation’s broader Happy School Project, aimed at transforming traditional learning environments into vibrant, child-centric spaces.

The launch event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and members of the local community. The classrooms, now equipped with state-of-the-art smart boards, freshly painted walls, ergonomic furniture, and improved lighting, mark a significant transformation in the way education is delivered at the centre.

“Education is not just about books; it’s about sparking curiosity, building confidence, and equipping children with tools that help them thrive in a digital world. Through the Happy School Project, we aim to create such nurturing spaces across the country,” said Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, Founder of PACT Foundation.

Creating Classrooms That Inspire

The upgraded classrooms are more than just visually appealing. They are designed to promote interactive and digital learning, enabling students to better connect with lessons through visual aids, multimedia content, and hands-on digital activities. The smart boards allow teachers to deliver lessons more effectively and tailor content to varied learning needs.

These changes reflect a growing recognition that well-designed educational spaces can significantly enhance student engagement, creativity, and academic performance—especially in underserved communities.

About the Happy School Project

The Happy School Project is a flagship initiative of the PACT Foundation, aimed at bringing joy and dignity into education by improving school infrastructure, introducing technology-enabled learning, and supporting the emotional well-being of students. The project focuses on government and not-for-profit institutions where the impact is most needed.

With each successful transformation, the project reinforces its core mission: to make learning a happy, empowering experience for every child.

EduConnect

Happy School Project Launched at St Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona

allycaralgoa

9th June 2025:
St Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona, proudly launched its newly upgraded smart classrooms under the Happy School Project, with the heartfelt support of one of its most distinguished alumni, Dr Ashwin Fernandes, Founder and President of PACT Foundation. This collaboration marks a meaningful moment of return and contribution, as the school that once nurtured Dr Fernandes’ early dreams now benefits from his global journey and commitment to education.


As part of the upgrade, three smart classrooms were inaugurated—each equipped with state-of-the-art smart boards, new benches, and fresh painting and renovation work. The transformation reflects PACT Foundation’s commitment to providing vibrant, modern, and dignified learning environments for students in Goa.
The event was graced by the presence of Father Jerard Sahayaraj, Manager of the School; Madam Angelica Fernandes, Principal; and Mr Amarnath Panjikar, Senior Teacher; along with the entire faculty, staff, and student body. One of the highlights of the celebration was a soul-stirring musical performance specially composed by Mr Ivan D’Cruz, Physics Lab Assistant, and presented by a group of students.
Dr Fernandes addressed the gathering with an emotional and inspiring speech, reflecting on his personal journey from a curious village schoolboy to a global education leader.
“Standing here at St Thomas Higher Secondary School—my school—is not just a return to a campus, but a return to the roots that shaped me,” he shared. He also added “To the students here today, I want to say: never forget where you come from—but never let it limit where you are going. I was one of you. Dream, Inspire and Aspire.”
The upgrades at St Thomas are part of PACT Foundation’s broader Happy School Project, launched in 2023. Since its inception, the initiative has impacted 17 schools across Goa, focusing on digital learning tools, classroom revitalisation and sanitation upgrades.
Father Jerard Sahayaraj, Manager of the School, shared his happiness at seeing the transformation, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the upgrades. He spoke about the deeper meaning of giving, noting, “When we give with love, we receive even greater blessings in return. Today’s gift to the school is not just smart boards and new benches—it is the spirit of hope, pride, and possibility that fills every classroom.”
With deep roots planted in Aldona, the Happy School Project now aims to give wings to hundreds of children, nurturing hope and potential where it all began. PACT (People for Action, Change and Transformation) Foundation is a non-profit organisation committed to empowering communities through access to quality education and social support. Through its flagship initiatives like the Happy School Project, PACT works to uplift underserved schools and foster environments where children can thrive.