Tag: St. Xavier’s College

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Vatican Observatory Director Fr. Richard D’Souza Celebrates Feast Mass at St. Xavier’s College

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December 4, 2025 | Mapusa, Goa : St. Xavier’s College celebrated the Feast of its Patron Saint, St. Francis Xavier, with great reverence and enthusiasm. The Feast Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Richard D’Souza SJ, esteemed Director of the Vatican Observatory, Rome, whose presence elevated the significance of the occasion.

Delivering a powerful message rooted in hope and faith, Fr. D’Souza encouraged students to look beyond academics and embrace a holistic approach to learning. He emphasized that education is not merely about examinations but about nurturing communication skills, critical thinking, and intellectual curiosity—qualities essential for facing the wider challenges of life. His words inspired the gathering to work together as a community and translate values into meaningful action.

Following the Mass, the programme continued with the felicitation of meritorious students from the Self-Financed Departments of the 2024–25 batch, celebrating their hard work and academic excellence. The institution also honoured Ms. Jacqueline Monteiro, a dedicated faculty member, on the occasion of her retirement, recognising her valuable contributions to the college over the years.

Adding vibrancy to the celebrations, the College Students Council hosted the annual “Socials”, featuring this year’s glamorous theme—The Red Carpet. Students participated enthusiastically, showcasing creativity and spirit. The event concluded with the crowning of Mr. Xavier 2025, awarded to Mr. Yash Pawar of T.Y.B.Com, and Ms. Xavier 2025, awarded to Ms. Aloma Saldanha of T.Y.B.Sc.

The honours were conferred by Officiating Principal Ms. Ursula Barreto and Administrator Fr. Tony Salema, adding prestige to the grand celebration. The day reflected the college’s rich tradition, vibrant student community, and commitment to holistic development.

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St. Xavier’s College Hosts Hyderabad Students for Academic & Cultural Exchange

Tanisha Cardozo

St. Xavier’s College recently welcomed a delegation of 42 undergraduate and postgraduate students, accompanied by three faculty members from the Department of Microbiology at St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, for an academic and cultural exchange organized by the Department of Microbiology. The programme began with a prayer service and an inaugural ceremony at which Ms. Ursula Barreto, the Officiating Principal of St. Xavier’s College, highlighted the importance of collaborative learning and how exchange initiatives broaden student perspectives by exposing them to new practices, academic ideas, and diverse cultures.

The academic component of the visit consisted of two technical sessions conducted by faculty members from the Department of Microbiology at St. Xavier’s College. Dr. Trelita Sousa presented a session on “Tracing the Environmental Trajectory of Microplastics,” offering insights into one of the most pressing environmental concerns of today. This was followed by Dr. Valerie Gonsalves’ session on “Revolutionizing Health Through Gut Microbiome Transplantation,” which introduced students to emerging trends and transformative possibilities in medical microbiology. These sessions enabled visiting students to explore advanced research themes and engage directly with subject experts.

The day also included a vibrant cultural experience, featuring a Mando and a Goan folk dance performed by students of St. Xavier’s College. These performances added a celebratory dimension to the event and offered the visiting delegation a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions of Goa.

As part of the exchange, the students were given a guided tour of the college campus, including the Science Block, various laboratories, and key academic facilities. This tour provided them with a firsthand experience of the infrastructure that supports scientific inquiry and innovation at St. Xavier’s.

The programme fulfilled its mission of promoting academic enrichment and strengthening bonds between the two institutions. Both colleges expressed optimism about future collaborative opportunities under the existing MoU, including research partnerships, faculty exchanges, and joint student initiatives. The visit marked an important step toward long-term academic engagement and mutual growth, deepening connections that are expected to lead to meaningful future collaborations.

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Prof. (Dr.) Karuna Gokarn Appointed as First Woman Principal of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

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Mumbai, October 2025: In a landmark development for one of India’s most prestigious educational institutions, Prof. (Dr.) Karuna Gokarn has been appointed as the Principal of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai (subject to University and Government approval). This appointment marks a historic milestone, as Dr. Gokarn becomes the first woman to lead the college in its 156-year history since its establishment in 1869.

A senior faculty member of the Department of Microbiology, Dr. Gokarn has been associated with the institution for many years, contributing significantly to its academic and administrative progress. In her previous roles as Vice Principal (Academics) and Director of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), she demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision.

Dr. Gokarn also served as the NEP Nodal Officer, playing a key role in the successful implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ensuring that the college adapted seamlessly to new academic frameworks.

Her appointment is seen as a progressive step towards inclusive leadership in higher education, symbolizing the institution’s commitment to diversity and empowerment.

The college community has warmly congratulated Dr. Gokarn on her appointment, recognizing her dedication to academic innovation, holistic education, and student welfare.

As St. Xavier’s College embarks on a new chapter under her leadership, the institution looks forward to strengthening its legacy of excellence, while fostering an environment of equality, inspiration, and growth.

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St. Xavier’s College, Department of Psychology Celebrates Mental Health Day 2025: ‘Pathway to Support’

Tanisha Cardozo

On October 9, 2025, the Department of Psychology at St. Xavier’s College came together to host an engaging and impactful Mental Health Day celebration under the thoughtful theme “Pathway to Support: Because Every Mind Matters.” This annual initiative aimed to create awareness, spark meaningful dialogue, and promote emotional well-being among students, aligning with the global Sustainable Development Goal 3 – which advocates for good health and well-being for all, with an emphasis on mental health.

The day began with a warm and encouraging welcome by Dr. Eulalia Fernandes, the event coordinator, who was ably supported by student leaders Bethany Fernandes and Destiny D’Souza. Their meticulous planning and hands-on involvement helped shape the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere of the event. The presence of college dignitaries – Principal Ms. Ursula Barreto, Administrator Fr. Tony Salema, and Vice Principal Prof. Felipe Rodrigues e Melo – highlighted the institution’s strong commitment to fostering a mentally healthy campus.

The event featured a powerful mime performance that visually captured the struggles and hopes associated with mental health. This was followed by an engaging Open Mic session, offering students a platform to share stories, poems, and reflections in a safe and welcoming space. Certificates were also distributed to participants of a previously held poster-making competition, celebrating student creativity and awareness efforts. A keynote address by Fr. Tony Salema added depth to the occasion, as he shared insights on building a supportive and understanding environment for all.

As the day unfolded, interactive and reflective activities lined the college lobby, transforming it into a space of learning, sharing, and joy. The “Ping Pong Trivia” added a fun twist to mental health facts, while “Pop Your Insecurities” invited students to symbolically let go of their worries. The Art Table provided a space for creative self-expression, and the “Take What You Need” corner offered affirmation cards promoting hope, strength, and kindness. Activities like “Inside Out: Sorting Emotions,” the Affirmation Mirror, Mehendi Table, and Sticker Counter further enhanced self-awareness, relaxation, and peer connection.

The celebration concluded on a vibrant note with a high-energy flash mob that brought smiles and unity to the crowd, leaving behind a lasting reminder that mental health is not just personal, but communal.

Mental Health Day 2025 at St. Xavier’s College was not only a celebration, but a call to action — encouraging everyone to care for themselves and each other. The event successfully blended education, empathy, and entertainment, proving that even small moments of connection, creativity, and conversation can pave the way to a stronger, healthier community.

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St. Xavier’s College Hosts Awareness Programme on International Day Against Drug Abuse

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Mapusa, Goa – June 26, 2025 : St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, took a strong stand against the growing crisis of substance abuse by organizing an educational and awareness session on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The event, held on campus on June 26, 2025, aimed to sensitize students about the dangers of drug abuse, its ties to mental health struggles, and the importance of reaching out for help. A total of 247 students from the Arts, Commerce, Science, and Self-Financed streams actively participated in the programme.

🎤 Expert Voices on Youth and Substance Abuse

The session featured two key resource persons:

  • Dr. Sneha Pokle, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
  • Ms. Meghna Jadhav, Clinical Psychologist
    Both are associated with the State Tele-MANAS initiative at the South Goa District Hospital, Margao.

Dr. Pokle spoke candidly about the mental health dimensions of substance abuse, urging students to recognize early warning signs and resist the glamorization of drugs on social media and in pop culture.

“Mental illness and addiction are closely linked—and both thrive in silence. Let’s break that cycle,” she said.

Ms. Jadhav introduced students to the Goa Government’s Tele-MANAS mental health helpline, stressing that confidential support is available to anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.

“If you’re struggling, don’t isolate—reach out. Tele-MANAS is free, private, and always listening,” she reassured.

🏫 College’s Ongoing Commitment

Setting the tone, Prof. Afonso Botelho, Nodal Officer against Drug Abuse at St. Xavier’s, reaffirmed the college’s commitment to promoting awareness and fostering resilience among students.

“At Xavier’s, we strive to nurture informed, responsible, and resilient individuals—empowered to make conscious, life-affirming decisions.”

The event was coordinated with the support of:

  • Dr. James D’ Souza (Botany)
  • Ms. Zarina Chowdari (Commerce)
  • Mr. Clarence Rodrigues (Chemistry)
  • Mr. Prasad S. Naik (Political Science)

Their collective effort helped deliver a powerful and practical message to the student body, underlining the importance of vigilance, compassion, and proactive action in combating drug abuse.

The event concluded with an earnest appeal for students to be allies in this critical fight—not just for themselves, but for their peers and communities.