On August 15, 2025, Sunshine Worldwide School, Old Goa, proudly participated in an archery competition held to celebrate India’s Independence Day. The event was hosted by Zito Archery Club and took place at Fr. Agnel Central School, Pilar, attracting young archery talent from schools across the region.
Guided by their dedicated coach, Leonor Godinho, the school’s archery team demonstrated strong sportsmanship, discipline, and skill. Among the shining stars of the competition was Ms. Abigail Vanderpett, whose composed focus, technique, and precision caught the attention of both judges and spectators alike. Her performance stood out not just for the scores, but for the grace and control she displayed throughout the competition.
Events like these not only allow students to test their sporting ability but also foster confidence, teamwork, and valuable life experiences. The spirit of friendly competition and encouragement among schools made the day a memorable one.
The Sunshine Worldwide School community extends heartfelt congratulations to all the participants and looks forward to celebrating many more successes in the future.
In a heartwarming celebration leading up to India’s 78th Independence Day, Konkani Shanti Publications (KSP) hosted the Bal Kavi Sammelan on August 13, 2025, at the prestigious Ravindra Bhavan in Margao, Goa. The event invited student poets from schools across the state to recite original works under the evocative theme “My Nation, My Garden.”
The program opened with a stirring address from KSP President Mr. Samiullah Belwadi, who passionately emphasized the beauty of India’s linguistic and cultural plurality. “Just as a garden thrives with a variety of flowers, our nation flourishes with a diversity of languages and traditions,” he said. His message of unity in diversity resonated throughout the evening.
Chief Guest N. Shivdas, a celebrated writer and social activist, encouraged young minds to find poetry through introspection and observation. “True poetry is not written—it is felt,” he shared, urging students to remain open to the world around them.
The competition drew an impressive range of multilingual entries, judged by a distinguished panel of literary figures including Chitra Kshirsagar, Ramesh Ghadi, Sheetal Salgaokar, Purnima Desai, and Sharmin Deshmukh. The judges praised the originality and heartfelt emotion conveyed by the young poets, and commended KSP for nurturing literary culture among children.
Notable winners included:
Aafiya Shaikh – Deepvihar Primary School
Saijat Anjul Fall Dessai – Tiny Tots Primary School
Adhvaiya Kunkolikar – Popular Prathamik Vidhyalay
Aisafa Begum Khan, Zaida Mehboob Shaikh, Ayesha Baig – Crescent School
Aabed Farhan Onti – Maarif Modest Education
Asad Shaikh – Loyola High School
Zainab Khanam Soudagar – Keshav Smruti Bal Vikas School
Adding musical cheer, students from Popular English High School, Goa Velha, presented a special patriotic song, stirring national pride among the audience.
Afrah Sayyed, who served as convenor, ensured the event ran smoothly, reflecting KSP’s ongoing commitment to cultural education and harmony.
In his closing note, Mr. Asif Hussain spoke about the power of young voices in shaping the nation’s future. “Their hope and clarity reflect the vision of our founding fathers,” he said. “They are our brightest bloom in the garden of India.”
From poignant verses to unfiltered dreams, Bal Kavi Sammelan 2025 was not just a competition—it was a celebration of language, unity, and a shared national spirit.
Goa, August 12, 2025 – As part of nationwide security measures leading up to India’s 79th Independence Day, Manohar International Airport (GOX) in Goa has issued a passenger advisory urging travellers to arrive well in advance of their flight departure times.
To ensure the safety of all passengers and staff, airport security protocols have been intensified from August 12 through August 15, 2025. These include:
Stricter screening at entry and security checkpoints
Additional document verification
Increased surveillance and patrolling across terminal premises
⏰ Recommended Arrival Times:
Domestic flights: At least 2.5 hours before departure
International flights: At least 3.5 hours before departure
Passengers are also requested to carry valid ID proofs, limit carry-on luggage, and cooperate with security staff for a smooth process.
🙏 A Message from Airport Authorities
“Your understanding and cooperation during this time are deeply appreciated,” said an airport spokesperson. “We are committed to ensuring both security and convenience for every traveller.”
As the nation prepares to celebrate its freedom, safety remains a top priority. Travellers are encouraged to plan accordingly, stay informed through official airport updates, and extend patience during this temporary but essential measure.
📍 Airport: Manohar International Airport (GOX), Mopa – North Goa 📅 Advisory in effect: August 12–15, 2025 📞 For live updates, follow @goaairport or check your airline’s notifications.
