Tag: GoaEducation

EduConnect

Damodar HSS Students Learn Sea Safety and Life-Saving Skills Through Sagar Safar Programme

Tanisha Cardozo

Eighteen girl students from Damodar Higher Secondary School in South Goa were introduced to essential sea safety and life-saving skills through the Sagar Safar programme, as part of their Vocational Healthcare Science curriculum. The session was conducted at Benaulim beach and aimed to provide practical exposure under the subject of first aid in emergency situations, moving learning beyond the confines of the classroom.

The programme familiarised students with the basics of understanding the sea, including recognising tides, waves and changing coastal conditions, while also highlighting how marine life adapts to different environments. Emphasis was placed on safety awareness and preparedness, particularly in emergency situations involving water. For many participants, the session also helped reduce fear and build confidence in approaching open water.

Students interacted closely with the Drishti Marine and Sagar Safar teams, who guided them through safety principles and real-life scenarios. Class 12 student Sadhana Jamuni shared that the experience helped the students develop a clearer understanding of the sea and enabled several of them to overcome their hesitation about entering the water. Another student, Stefni Silva, said the programme increased awareness about sea safety and equipped them with practical skills that made them feel more confident and secure.

Sagar Safar is conducted daily with guided sessions at 11 am and 4 pm at multiple beaches across Goa, including Baga, Calangute, Sinquerim and Candolim in North Goa, and Benaulim and Colva in South Goa. The programme runs throughout the year, except during the monsoon season when swimming is restricted due to rough sea conditions, continuing to play a vital role in promoting sea safety, awareness and responsible interaction with coastal environments.

EduConnect

Srinivassa Sinai Dempo College Honoured with ‘Inspiring Educational Institution Award 2026’

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

DCT’s Srinivassa Sinai Dempo College (Autonomous), Cujira, has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Inspiring Educational Institution Award 2026,’ presented biennially by the Vibrant Goa Foundation, in recognition of its exceptional contributions to education, skills development, industry engagement and societal impact.

The award was conferred by Shri Mauvin Godinho, Hon’ble Minister of Industries, Government of Goa, acknowledging the institution’s consistent efforts in redefining higher education through innovation, academic excellence and holistic development.

Under the leadership of Principal Prof. (Dr.) Manoj S. Kamat and Administrator Shri Rajesh Bhatikar, the college has achieved significant milestones by effectively leveraging its autonomous status. Over the past few years, the institution has introduced innovative programmes in commerce, economics, management, artificial intelligence and aviation, while actively promoting research, entrepreneurship and skill development. The college has also hosted national-level initiatives such as business hackathons and has supported the creation of new start-ups.

The institution has recorded strong performance in student placements, academic achievements and awards, while building meaningful industry collaborations and partnerships that contribute to the overall development of students. These initiatives have played a key role in enhancing employability, leadership skills and real-world exposure among learners.

Shri Shrinivas Dempo, Chairman of Dempo Charities Trust, and Smt. Pallavi Dempo, Trustee, expressed pride in the college’s progress and reaffirmed that its growth aligns closely with the Trust’s vision of excellence, innovation and service to society.

Principal Prof. (Dr.) Manoj S. Kamat attributed the recognition to the collective efforts of the teaching and non-teaching staff, enthusiastic students, supportive parents and the dynamic management of Dempo Charities Trust under the leadership of Shri Shrinivas Dempo and Smt. Pallavi Dempo. He noted that the award serves as motivation to continue serving Goa with greater dedication and commitment to quality education.

Managed by Dempo Charities Trust, Srinivassa Sinai Dempo College is a premier institution offering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in commerce, economics and management, with a strong focus on academic rigour, innovation and the holistic development of students.

EduConnect

St. Thomas HSS Aldona Reconnects Alumni Through Ex-Students’ Meet

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona, reaffirmed its enduring connection with its former students by hosting an Ex-Students’ Meet on January 3 in the school hall. The initiative aimed at reconnecting alumni and strengthening long-term engagement received an encouraging response, with nearly 100 alumni registering and around 70 ex-students attending the programme.

The gathering was graced by the presence of Tr. Marceline Vaz, a former teacher of the institution, whose attendance added a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the occasion. School Manager Rev. Fr. Jerard Sahayaraj welcomed the alumni and highlighted the purpose of the meet, emphasizing the important role former students play in the growth of the institution and their ability to contribute positively to society.

Sir Daryl Abranches shared insights into future plans and outlined the requirements and framework for forming a formal Ex-Students’ Association. Following the discussion, a group of dedicated volunteers was identified to work on the modalities and take the initiative forward.

The event unfolded in a lively and joyful atmosphere, with games, spot prizes and musical entertainment rekindling fond memories and camaraderie among the alumni. Principal Ms. Angelica Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of the meet, which concluded with a fellowship lunch.

The programme was made possible through the enthusiastic support and cooperation of the entire staff, under the coordination of Sr. Arjun Gharse, Tr. Lavina Pereira, Tr. Josephine D’Souza and Tr. Hyacinta Lobo. The Ex-Students’ Meet marked a meaningful step towards building a strong, vibrant and collaborative alumni network for St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona.

Social

Awareness Talk on Brain Death and Organ Donation Held at Assagao Union High School

allycaralgoa

An impactful awareness session on “Brain Death and Organ Donation” was conducted on November 13, 2025, at Assagao Union High School, Assagao. Organized by the Lions Club of Mapuca in collaboration with the MOHAN Foundation, the program aimed to educate students from Classes 8th to 10th about organ donation and its life-saving significance.

The session began at 1:00 PM with a warm welcome by Headmaster Shreedhar Naik, who greeted the resource person Gabriel Pereira and invited guests. In his address, he highlighted the school’s dedication to nurturing responsible citizens through meaningful social awareness engagements.

MJF Lion Goculdas Nagvenkar followed with an insightful introduction to the Lions Club of Mapuca, outlining the club’s extensive community initiatives, including health campaigns, environmental programs, and youth outreach. He emphasized the importance of collaborating with organizations like the MOHAN Foundation that champion critical causes such as organ donation.

The highlight of the event was the expert-led session by Gabriel Pereira, who explained the concept of brain death, its medical relevance, and the transformative power of organ donation. Using relatable examples and simple explanations, he encouraged students to view organ donation as an act of compassion capable of saving multiple lives. His talk generated active engagement, with students posing thoughtful questions.

The program was seamlessly compered by Teacher Eeshwari Narvekar, who kept the session interactive and well-paced. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Teacher Pravin Gaonkar, who acknowledged the contributions of the Lions Club, MOHAN Foundation, the school staff, and the students for making the session impactful and meaningful.

The awareness drive saw enthusiastic participation, leaving a deep impression on the young attendees. Students shared positive feedback, expressing a clearer understanding and a more compassionate outlook toward organ donation.

This initiative underscores the Lions Club of Mapuca’s commitment to community service and the MOHAN Foundation’s dedication to life-saving advocacy. Programs like this plant seeds of awareness among younger generations—strengthening the message: “One Donor, Multiple Lives.”

EduConnect

Headmistress Maria Murena Miranda Honoured by Union Bank of India for Exemplary Service in Education

Tanisha Cardozo

Headmistress Maria Murena Miranda of PM SHRI GHS Morpirla was felicitated by Union Bank of India during Vigilance Awareness Week 2025 for her outstanding dedication to education and her inspiring efforts to uplift tribal students in the Morpirla village.

A national and state award-winning educator, Miranda Ma’am has led her school to an extraordinary milestone — achieving 100% SSC results for ten consecutive years. This success is a reflection of her visionary leadership, compassionate mentorship, and tireless commitment to ensuring equal opportunities in education.

The felicitation ceremony was graced by Shri Ashish Mahaliah, Regional Head, who presented the honour to Headmistress Miranda in the presence of dignitaries including Ma’am Deliyah Dias (Retired DGM), Mr. Sachin Naik (Branch Head, Assolna), Sir Vikram Kashyap (Vigilance Officer, Regional Office), and Ma’am Edith Pereira (Regional Officer).

As part of the event, a talk session was conducted by Shri Ashish Mahaliah for students, highlighting the objectives of Vigilance Awareness Week — to foster a culture of integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct. The session encouraged students to understand their role as responsible citizens in promoting honesty and accountability in society.

This recognition by Union Bank of India celebrates Headmistress Miranda’s selfless service, her dedication to the education of rural and tribal children, and her unwavering commitment to nurturing a generation guided by knowledge, integrity, and compassion.

Her journey continues to inspire teachers, students, and communities across Goa, proving that true education goes beyond academics — it is about lighting the way for others.