Tag: Goan students

EduConnect

American AI Expert from Carnegie Mellon Trains Goan Students on Real-World Applications of Artificial Intelligence at Kilowott Workshop

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

College students from technical and non-technical institutions across Goa were recently introduced to the real-world applications of artificial intelligence and its growing influence on modern careers during a workshop conducted by Adam Paulisick, a renowned professor at Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Computer Science, USA. The session was hosted at the campus of digital transformation company Kilowott in Porvorim.

Titled Growing at the Speed of Artificial Intelligence, the workshop explored how AI is rapidly transitioning from academic theory to practical, industry-driven use. Paulisick, who also leads the US-based AI firm SkillyAI, explained how artificial intelligence is reshaping workplaces, skill requirements, and decision-making processes across sectors.

Students from institutions including Goa Engineering College, Agnel Institute of Technology and Design, Shree Rayeshwar Institute of Engineering & Information Technology, Goa College of Art, Don Bosco College of Engineering, Padre Conceicao College of Engineering, Dnyanprassarak Mandal’s College and Research Centre, Shree Damodar College of Commerce and Economics, and St. Xavier’s College participated in the session.

Using relatable business examples, Paulisick compared AI systems to kitchen ingredients that need to be combined thoughtfully to create meaningful outcomes. He explained that the gap between data and impact is bridged through different approaches to AI, ranging from augmented and assistive AI to AI-first systems and hybrid models that emphasise collaboration between humans and machines.

Speaking about India’s technology landscape, he highlighted how AI can significantly accelerate learning and innovation when used actively. He noted that while becoming a senior technologist traditionally takes decades, AI now allows individuals to access advanced knowledge and insights much faster, helping them experiment and grow at an unprecedented pace.

Students described the workshop as eye-opening and practical. Several participants said it helped demystify commonly used terms like data and AI by placing them in real business and professional contexts, while also underscoring the importance of responsible data usage.

Faculty members who attended the session said it provided valuable clarity on selecting appropriate AI tools for different applications and would help them guide students more effectively. The workshop was part of Kilowott’s broader effort to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry exposure in emerging technology domains that are redefining career pathways.

The initiative also aligns with the recently signed memorandum of understanding between Goa College of Art and St. Xavier’s College, aimed at strengthening industry–academia collaboration and supporting the development of local talent in Goa’s evolving digital ecosystem.

EduConnect

St. Xavier’s HSS Mapusa and St. Francis Xavier’s HSSC Siolim Win Big at Rockstar Chef Competition 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Mapusa and St. Francis Xavier’s Higher Secondary School of Arts, Science and Commerce, Siolim emerged as the big winners at the grand finale of the Rockstar Chef Competition 2025, the flagship culinary event hosted by the Kamaxi College of Culinary Arts. The competition, held at the college’s state-of-the-art Verna campus, brought together 25 enthusiastic students from across Goa who showcased their creativity, technical skills, and passion for the culinary arts.

The competition was divided into two main categories—Hot Kitchen and Bakery & Pastry—each further classified into CRM (institutions offering vocational courses) and general categories. After a series of semi-final rounds conducted across various campuses between September and October 2025, the finalists competed in the grand finale for individual honours as well as the prestigious rolling trophies for their institutions.

In the Hot Kitchen CRM category, Valencia Fernandes from St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Mapusa emerged as the winner, while Presh Talawdekar from Purushottam Walawalkar Higher Secondary School of Arts, Science & Commerce, Mapusa secured first place in the Hot Kitchen general category. In the Bakery & Pastry segment, Pakeeza Dalayat from Damodar English Higher Secondary School, Quepem claimed the top spot in the CRM category, and Sejal Palyekar from St. Francis Xavier’s Higher Secondary School of Arts, Science and Commerce, Siolim won the general category. Based on the collective performance of their students, St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Mapusa and St. Francis Xavier’s Higher Secondary School of Arts, Science and Commerce, Siolim were awarded the rolling trophies in the CRM and general categories respectively.

The grand finale was judged by Chef Montague Dias, Executive Sous Chef at Planet Hollywood Goa, and Chef Kunal Arolkar, a renowned culinary expert. Both judges praised the students for their discipline, creativity, and technical finesse, noting the professional standards demonstrated by participants at such an early stage in their culinary journeys. Chef Montague Dias remarked that the competition offered students a valuable glimpse into the realities of the culinary profession and commended the use of one of the best commercially designed culinary facilities for the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Parixit Pai Fondekar, Founder of Kamaxi Group, highlighted the importance of platforms like the Rockstar Chef Competition in shaping future culinary professionals. He noted that the event allows students to bring their ideas to life, build confidence, and recognise culinary arts as a legitimate and inspiring career path beyond conventional professions.

Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete in a professional environment, sharing that the experience broadened their culinary perspective and strengthened their confidence. Many students said the competition inspired them to seriously consider careers in the food and hospitality industry, reinforcing the role of initiatives like Rockstar Chef Competition in nurturing the next generation of culinary talent in Goa.

Contest

Goa Gears Up for the 24th Shenoi Goembab Storytelling Competition – 2nd August 2025

allycaralgoa

The Shenoi Goembab Storytelling Competition, one of Goa’s largest and most awaited educational events, is back with its 24th edition this 2nd August 2025. Spearheaded by Konkani Bhasha Mandal (KBM), Goa, and supported by the Directorate of Official Language, Government of Goa, this competition celebrates the timeless tradition of storytelling through the lens of the Konkani language.

Over the years, the competition has grown remarkably in participation and scale. This year, it will be conducted across 19 centers in Goa, including all 12 talukas and extended centers in Shiroda, Cuncolim, Bardez, Margao, Tiswadi, and Ponda. Some schools from Salcete and Quepem are merged with the Cuncolim center due to overwhelming participation.

The storytelling contest is open to students from Classes 1 to 10, divided into three categories:

  • 1st–4th Std: 2–4 minutes
  • 5th–7th Std: 3–5 minutes
  • 8th–10th Std: 4–6 minutes

Participants are free to choose their story themes, and additional winners will be selected in centers with high participation to ensure broader representation.

More than 160 judges and 300 volunteers will be actively engaged in conducting this state-wide literary celebration, reflecting the immense popularity and cultural importance of this event.

This year’s refreshment partner, Monginis, joins hands with KBM to support young minds on their creative journey.

The storytelling competition is not just about winning prizes—it is about fostering language fluency, imagination, and confidence among young students in Goa.

Interested schools and participants can reach out to:

  • 📞 Ulhas Goankar (Coordinator): 9923765741
  • 📞 Gaurang Bhandiye (Co-Coordinator): 8552883808

“Through stories, we preserve culture. Through storytelling, we shape the future.”

For more updates, follow @kbmgoaofficial and @dirlang_goa on social media.

Human Interest

Chicalim Bio-Crusaders Launch Website Showcasing Goa’s Rich Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage

allycaralgoa

CHICALIM, GOA – June 8, 2025
In a landmark moment for grassroots environmental and cultural advocacy in Goa, the Chicalim Bio-Crusaders officially launched their new website at a vibrant function held at Chicalim. The digital platform, developed with the aim of preserving and promoting Goa’s biodiversity, folklore, and village heritage, marks a significant step forward in community-driven conservation and education.

The event was graced by Mr. Daniel D’Souza, President of the Botanical Society of Goa, as Chief Guest, and Mr. Jack Mascarenhas, President of Goyche Fudle Pilghe Khatir (GFPK), as Guest of Honour. They were joined by Mr. Cyril A. Fernandes, President of the Chicalim Bio-Crusaders, and Adv. Fr. Micael A. Fernandes, General Secretary of the group.

🌍 A Digital Archive of Goa’s Natural and Cultural Wealth

Unveiling the website, Mr. Cyril Fernandes highlighted the rich and diverse content it houses. From the biodiversity of Chicalim, Dabolim, and St. Jacinto Island, to village history, heritage landmarks, and hidden natural treasures, the platform offers a virtual gateway into the heart of Goa’s lesser-known wonders.

A standout feature is the digital archive of Konkani riddles collected and featured in the group’s popular contest ‘Parkonnem – Kitem Tem Sang’, now made accessible to the global Goan diaspora at the click of a button.

Also featured are traditional Goan folk dances such as Fuggdi, Dhalo, Zagor, Kunbbi Naach, Dhangar Naach, Divli Naach, Mando, and Morulo, along with visual content on local fauna and flora—including wild animals, birds, butterflies, fishes, and a vibrant collection of wildflowers photographed and documented by Bio-Crusader members over the past three years.

“This is more than a website; it’s a living library of Goa’s soul,” said Fernandes.

🎓 A Learning Tool for Students and a Resource for All

The primary goal of the platform is to offer Goan students a ready reference to support school projects, ecological awareness, and cultural knowledge. The launch was symbolically officiated by students Miss Leanne Viegas of St. Andrew’s School (ICSE) and Master Divesh C. Kalangutkar, who were given the honor of being the first to access the site.

“I feel lucky to be the first student to explore this beautiful website. It’s so colourful and full of interesting things about Goa,” said Leanne.

🌟 Guest Speakers Praise the Initiative

Mr. Daniel D’Souza lauded the Bio-Crusaders’ commitment, stating that this might be the first village group in Goa to create such a comprehensive digital archive. He encouraged other communities to follow this proactive model of environmental and cultural preservation.

Echoing the sentiment, Mr. Jack Mascarenhas of GFPK emphasized that the site provides a unique opportunity for Goans of all ages to reconnect with their roots, observe local species, and cherish traditional knowledge—an effort commendably initiated not by institutions, but by the community itself.

“When local people take charge of preserving their biodiversity, the impact is lasting. This is Goa showing the way forward,” he said.

📈 A Growing Movement Since 2018

Adv. Fr. Micael Fernandes, General Secretary, opened the function with a comprehensive review of the Chicalim Bio-Crusaders’ journey since their formation in 2018. From organizing eco-walks to cultural contests and biodiversity documentation, the group has steadily grown into one of Goa’s most respected grassroots conservation movements.

The evening was elegantly compered by Mrs. Cynthia D’Souza Silveira, and a warm vote of thanks was delivered by Mrs. Vinny Fernandes, who expressed gratitude to all guests, participants, and service providers for supporting the group’s latest milestone.

View the website on https://www.chicalimbiocrusaders.com