Tag: Field Trip

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St. Xavier’s College Chemistry Students Visit NCPOR for Hands-on Scientific Learning

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Chemistry at St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, organized a field visit for its TYBSc students to the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Vasco-da-Gama, Goa, on 16th October 2025. The visit offered students a first-hand experience of India’s leading research institution dedicated to polar and ocean studies.

Students were warmly welcomed by NCPOR scientists, who introduced them to the institution’s primary mandates, including the Indian Antarctic and Arctic Programs and Southern Ocean studies. The interaction sessions provided students valuable insights into how India contributes to global research on climate change, oceanography, and polar ecosystems.

During the guided tour, students explored several advanced laboratories such as the SEM-EDS Lab, Polar Biology Lab, Geology Lab, and Cryobiology Lab, where they learned about the cutting-edge instruments used in environmental and oceanic research. Faculty members accompanying the students highlighted the educational importance of linking theoretical chemistry concepts with real-world applications in polar science.

Fascinated by the experience, many students expressed interest in pursuing summer and winter research projects at NCPOR. The visit not only deepened their understanding of applied chemistry but also inspired them to consider careers in research and environmental science.

The field trip was coordinated by Mr. Mahesh Nair, faculty member of the Department of Chemistry, under the mentorship of Ms. Kathleen Pinto, Head of Department. The initiative reflects St. Xavier’s College’s ongoing commitment to experiential learning and academic exposure beyond the classroom.

EduConnect

Goa’s Rich Heritage Leaves Students in Awe

allycaralgoa

In a bid to educate students about Goa’s fascinating history and heritage, Presentation Convent Higher Secondary School, Fatorda, organized a field trip to various heritage sites in Quepem and Sanguem talukas. The excursion, which was part of their studies and assignment, left the students astounded and enlightened.

Seventy-seven students and nine teaching staff, led by their history teacher Sr. Zinia Caeiro, visited several sites, including two Buddhist caves in Rivona, Usgalimol Rock Art site, Kajur Petroglyph, Paik Dev Temple, the tribal Maand, and the Bubbling Lake at Netravali.

The trip was facilitated by Chicalim Bio-Crusaders, a organization dedicated to preserving Goa’s history and heritage. Mr. Cyril A. Fernandes, President of Chicalim Bio-Crusaders, accompanied the students and shared his vast knowledge of Goa’s history and heritage.

The students were particularly fascinated by the rock art carvings at Usgalimol. Miss Shane Pasha, a student, was “literally dazed” by the ancient art and appealed to her fellow students to visit the site and learn about the contributions of their ancestors.

The students also gained valuable insights into the history and practices of the tribals. They were shown the “Baska” or the Maand, where the tribal heads or “Budvont” would sit and deliberate on the day-to-day affairs of their people.

Miss Stephnie Fernandes, another student, expressed her satisfaction with the learning experience. “It was the first time I heard about the Kajur Petroglyph or the tribal Maand and Paik Dev,” she said.

The final visit was to the Bubbling pond (Budbudeanchi Tolli) at Netravali, where the students enthusiastically participated in clapping and observing the reaction of the claps in the form of bubbles emanating from under the pond water.

History Teacher Sr. Zinia Carneiro expressed her gratitude to Chicalim Bio-Crusaders and Mr. Cyril A. Fernandes for facilitating the trip and sharing their knowledge with the students.

This field trip was a unique opportunity for the students to explore and learn about Goa’s rich heritage. It not only enhanced their knowledge but also instilled in them a sense of pride and appreciation for the state’s history and culture.