Tag: Student Achievements

EduConnect

GVM’s Ponda College Wins Big at Abhiuday 2026

Tanisha Cardozo

Students of Goa Vidyaprasarak Mandal’s Gopal Govind Poy Raiturcar College of Commerce and Economics in Ponda have brought pride to their institution by clinching the overall trophy at Abhiuday 2026, an intercollegiate event organised by the Government College of Commerce and Economics, Borda. The team also secured a cash prize of ₹20,000 at the prestigious event.

The full-day competition, held at Ravindra Bhavan Margao, witnessed participation from multiple colleges, with students competing across a range of events. Representing the college was a contingent of 40 students, who demonstrated remarkable talent, enthusiasm, and teamwork throughout the day.

The winning trophy was presented by Damodar Naik, adding to the significance of the achievement.

The students participated with the encouragement and permission of Principal Dr. Smita Sanzgiri and were guided by Faculty In-charge Ms. Yeshda S. Prabhu, whose support played a crucial role in the team’s success.

This accomplishment highlights the institution’s ongoing commitment to holistic student development, encouraging participation beyond academics and fostering confidence, creativity, and collaboration among its students.

Social

True Strength of Nation Lies in Character of Its Citizens: Commodore Chauhan at Aashiyana Institute Republic Day Celebration

allycaralgoa

VASCO, Goa: Aashiyana Institute celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day with enthusiasm, pride, and patriotic spirit at its Zari, Zuarinagar, Sancoale campus. The occasion was graced by Commodore Pavan Chauhan, VSM (Retd.), Indian Navy, as the Chief Guest, along with school management, parents, teachers, and students.

The programme commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag, a ceremonial salute, and the singing of the National Anthem, filling the campus with unity and reverence for the Constitution of India.

In his address, Commodore Chauhan highlighted that the true strength of a nation lies not in weapons or economic might, but in the character of its citizens. He encouraged students to be honest, disciplined, kind, and responsible, and to serve the nation with integrity and a strong moral compass.

A special moment was the unveiling of a school portrait gifted by parent Mr. Abdul Gani, symbolizing the bond between the school and its parent community. The Chief Guest, along with school dignitaries, unveiled the artwork.

The cultural programme featured performances across all grades:

  • Primary students presented a soulful patriotic song and a skit on Fundamental Rights.
  • Pre-primary students delighted the audience with a patriotic melody.
  • Senior students showcased Goa’s cultural identity and democratic history through a programme on Asmitai Dis (Goa’s Opinion Poll Day).

Students from Classes 4 and 5, who participated in the Inter-School Science Fair organised by the Board of Innovative Education earlier this month, were felicitated for their curiosity, creativity, and scientific spirit.

In his address, Mr. Shoaib Shaikh, Officiating Headmaster, stressed that Republic Day reminds everyone to uphold the Constitution, respect diversity, and nurture children to become responsible citizens.

The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks and the National Anthem, leaving attendees with renewed patriotism and civic responsibility.

EduConnect

St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa Celebrates 60th Annual Day with Grandeur

Tanisha Cardozo

The 60th Annual Day of St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, held on January 15, 2026, was celebrated with great enthusiasm and dignity in the presence of management, distinguished guests, alumni, staff and students. The event was presided over by the Chief Guest, Rev. Fr. Nazareth Fernandes, Superior General of the Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier.

The programme began with a warm welcome by the Administrator, Rev. Fr. Antonio Salema, who greeted the Chief Guest, dignitaries and the audience. Prof. Filipe Rodrigues e Melo, Vice Principal, formally introduced the Chief Guest, highlighting his leadership and contribution to the mission of education. The Officiating Principal, Ms Ursula Barreto, then presented the Annual Report, outlining the significant academic, co-curricular and extracurricular achievements of students during the academic year 2024–25.

Adding a special emotional touch to the occasion, the Parent-Teacher Association and the Alumni Association felicitated retired faculty members of the institution. The gathering evoked a strong sense of nostalgia as former teaching and non-teaching staff reunited to relive fond memories associated with the college.

During the Award Ceremony, deserving alumni and students were honoured for their outstanding achievements in academics, sports and extracurricular activities, celebrating the spirit of excellence that defines the institution. Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr. Nazareth Fernandes drew inspiration from tennis icon Novak Djokovic, emphasising that achievement and privilege come with responsibility. He reminded students that privilege should never lead to complacency and that a meaningful legacy is shaped by the lives one positively impacts. He encouraged students to remain noble in thought, word and deed, and to generously share their talents and blessings with others.

The celebration also featured vibrant cultural performances by students, showcasing their creativity, talent and confidence. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the General Secretary of the Students’ Council, Mr Akhil Gurav, who expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, programme coordinator Prof. Maria Fonseca and all those who contributed to making the 60th Annual Day a memorable success.

Music

Swami Vivekanand Pratisthan Higher Secondary School Students Shine at Bharat Vikas Parishad Singing Competitions

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Swami Vivekanand Pratisthan Higher Secondary School, Bori, has brought pride to Goa with remarkable achievements in the group singing competitions organized by Bharat Vikas Parishad Western Region at Bhuj, Gujarat. The students secured first prize in the group folk song category and second prize in the group Sanskrit song competition.

The talented team, including Anupama Amonkar and Vishwas Naik, along with other students, showcased their exceptional musical abilities, bringing recognition to their school and state. The competitions in Bhuj were a platform for cultural exchange and celebration of regional music, where the students performed with dedication and passion.

In recognition of their achievements, Bharat Vikas Parishad Goa Prant felicitated the students on Saturday, 15th November, in the presence of Goa Prant President Dr. Pravin Sawant. The felicitation ceremony also saw the presence of Shrikrishna Dhond, Prakash Prabhu, Minanath Upadhye, Rajendra Barve, Nitin Barve, Anupama Amonkar, and Vikas Kamat. The program was thoughtfully compered by Mahima Barve, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Anupama Amonkar.

This accomplishment highlights the dedication of Swami Vivekanand Pratisthan Higher Secondary School students to cultural excellence and their commitment to representing Goa on a national stage. Their success serves as an inspiration to fellow students and reflects the support and encouragement provided by their mentors and the school administration.

EduConnect

Young Archers from Sunshine Worldwide School Shine at Independence Day Competition

Tanisha Cardozo

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.