Tag: Goa Schools

EduConnect

CARES Goa Launches Elective Curriculum 2025–2026: Powering Practical Learning for a Future-Ready Generation

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Goa, June 2025 — In a significant step towards transforming classroom learning into real-world experience, Coding And Robotics Education in Schools (CARES) Scheme, under the aegis of the Directorate of Technical Education (DTE), Government of Goa, has launchedts Elective Curriculum for the academic year 2025–2026. This initiative continues to empower school students with future-ready skills through practical, tech-integrated education.

The latest edition of the curriculum is being implemented across 206 lead schools and is set to benefit over 17,000 students, with a focused rollout for students of Classes 6th, 7th, and 8th. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, critical thinking, and applied technology.

One of the key highlights of this year’s offering is the introduction of in-house designed robotics hardware kits, coupled with the in-house developed GOVIN IDE — a user-friendly coding environment that enables students to write, test and deploy code for their projects. This integration gives students early access to industry-relevant tools in a school setting, fostering a deeper understanding of robotics and embedded systems.

The elective modules introduced in the CARES  curriculum for 2025–2026 span a diverse range of emerging and impactful domains. Students will explore cutting-edge technologies. The curriculum also includes practical exposure to Plug and Play units creative exploration through Digital Design and Fabrication, and socially conscious learning via Community Innovation Projects. Each module is thoughtfully designed to blend theory with hands-on application, enabling students to understand and innovate within real-world contexts.

With project-based assessments, teacher training support and interactive digital content, the elective curriculum aims not only to enhance technical proficiency but also to build life skills like teamwork, communication and creativity.

The 2025–2026 launch reaffirms CARES Goa’s mission to make education more engaging, relevant, and future-forward—ensuring that Goan students are not just learning about the world, but actively shaping it.

EduConnect

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

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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.