Tag: Student Awareness

EduConnect

Cyber Smart Generation: Awareness Drive Held at St. Francis Xavier’s High School, Siolim

Tanisha Cardozo

A significant step towards building digital awareness among young students was witnessed in Siolim, Goa, as a cyber awareness and online safety programme was conducted at St. Francis Xavier’s High School on 25th February 2026. The initiative was organised by the Siolim Free Legal Aid Cell of V.M. Salgaocar College of Law, aiming to equip students with essential knowledge to navigate the increasingly complex digital world safely.

The session was led by PSI Sahil Vijay Warang, Police Sub-Inspector from Anjuna Police Station, who addressed the students as the guest speaker. His talk focused on the growing threats of cybercrime and the importance of awareness as the first line of defence. The programme was held in the presence of Fr. Dilip Tete, Headmaster of the school, and Fr. Marcos Dsouza, Principal of the Higher Secondary section, both of whom appreciated the initiative and its relevance in today’s digital age.

With participation from approximately 600 to 650 students, along with teachers and members of the Legal Aid Cell, the session turned into an engaging and insightful learning experience. Students were introduced to the concept of cybercrime as an “unseen danger,” where criminals often exploit human emotions such as fear, greed, and curiosity rather than relying solely on advanced technology.

PSI Warang shared real-life examples of various online frauds, including fake investment schemes, job scams, sextortion cases, fake loan applications, impersonation frauds, matrimonial scams, and online booking frauds. He also explained newer threats such as digital arrest scams and emotional manipulation tactics, helping students understand how easily individuals can fall prey without proper awareness.

A key focus of the session was on developing a responsible digital mindset. Students were encouraged to stay cautious while using social media platforms, online games, and digital payment systems. Practical tips were shared on identifying suspicious links, protecting personal information, and verifying online transactions before taking action.

The session also introduced students to important safety resources such as the National Cybercrime Helpline 1930 and official cybercrime reporting platforms, empowering them with tools to seek help in case of any online threat. The interactive nature of the programme allowed students to actively participate, ask questions, and relate to real-world scenarios discussed during the session.

Faculty members, including Assistant Professor Shreya Shah, who serves as the Faculty Incharge of the Legal Aid Cell, along with student coordinators and school staff, played a key role in organising the event. Their efforts ensured that the programme was both informative and impactful.

The event concluded with a strong message: awareness is the most powerful defence against cybercrime. As students left the session more informed and alert, the programme successfully reinforced the importance of staying vigilant in an increasingly digital world.

EduConnect

POCSO Act Awareness Programme Held at Madkaikar Higher Secondary School, Corlim

rencygomes02

Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Corlim, January 19, 2026: The Old Goa Free Legal Aid Cell of V. M. Salgaocar College successfully conducted an informative awareness programme on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act at Madkaikar Higher Secondary School of Arts and Science, Corlim, Goa. The session commenced at 11:15 am and witnessed active participation from students and staff.



The programme featured insightful sessions by PSI Harshal Raikar and Advocate Aloysia Andrade, who explained the legal framework of the POCSO Act, its objectives and significance in protecting children from sexual offences. The speakers highlighted the role of law enforcement, legal authorities and society at large in ensuring the safety, dignity and rights of children.

Key aspects discussed during the session included legal procedures under the POCSO Act, responsibilities of citizens, reporting mechanisms, and preventive measures to safeguard children against abuse. The speakers emphasised early awareness, responsible behaviour and timely legal intervention as essential tools in child protection.

The programme was well received by students and faculty members, with interactive discussions enabling participants to ask questions and gain clarity on legal remedies and support systems available for victims.

The awareness initiative successfully achieved its objective of promoting legal literacy, child safety awareness and justice, contributing towards building a safer and more informed environment for children.

Social

Drug Awareness Programme Held at Goa Dental College, Bambolim

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

A drug awareness programme was conducted on 10 January 2025 at Goa Dental College, Bambolim, as part of the 30 Days Awareness Campaign coordinated by the District Legal Services Authority, North Goa, in association with the North Goa District Police. The programme was held between 11.15 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. with the aim of sensitising students to the growing menace of drug abuse and its far-reaching consequences.

Organised on the theme “Drug Abuse – Drug: A Menace to Society,” the session focused on creating awareness about the legal, social, and health-related implications of substance abuse. The programme brought together legal experts, law enforcement officials, and medical professionals to provide a comprehensive perspective on the issue. The dignitaries and guests were formally welcomed with potted plants as a gesture of goodwill and environmental consciousness.

Ms. Shantashri S. Sinai Kudchadkar, Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority, North Goa, addressed the gathering and emphasised the importance of legal awareness as a preventive tool in combating drug abuse. She highlighted how informed citizens, especially youth, can play a crucial role in building a safer and healthier society.

PSI Sahil Warang from the North Goa District Police delivered an in-depth session on the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, explaining its key provisions, enforcement mechanisms, and real-life case studies. His talk helped students understand the seriousness of drug-related offences and the legal consequences associated with them.

Dr. Gaurav spoke on the health aspects of drug abuse, shedding light on its impact on physical and mental well-being, addiction patterns, and the importance of prevention, early intervention, and seeking help. His session underlined the long-term risks of substance abuse and the value of making informed, healthy choices.

The programme was attended by around 50 participants, including approximately 40 dental students, along with faculty members and staff of Goa Dental College. The interactive session encouraged questions, discussions, and meaningful engagement from the students.

Overall, the programme successfully reinforced the collaborative efforts of the District Legal Services Authority, North Goa, and the North Goa District Police in spreading awareness and promoting the message of a drug-free society among the youth.

EduConnect

Virnora College Hosts Anti-Ragging Awareness Program with Keynote by Prof. Varsha Redkar

Tanisha Cardozo

Sant Sohirobanath Ambiye Government College of Arts and Commerce, located in Virnora, Pernem–Goa, organized a meaningful Anti-Ragging Awareness Program aimed at fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful campus culture. The session served as a powerful platform to engage students in understanding their role in eliminating ragging and promoting student welfare.

The keynote address was delivered by Asst. Prof. Varsha Redkar from V. M. Salgaocar College of Law, Miramar, who brought a legal perspective to the issue. She emphasized the seriousness of ragging under the law and the long-lasting impact it can have on victims. Her message to the students was not just about awareness, but about responsibility. “Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. If you witness ragging, speak up. Your voice can be the shield someone desperately needs,” she stated passionately, urging students to be vigilant allies rather than passive observers.

The program was effectively coordinated by Ms. Salima Haldankar and Ms. Manju Shetye, whose efforts ensured a smooth and engaging event. The initiative was well-received by students and staff alike, further demonstrating the institution’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a ragging-free environment and cultivating values of respect, empathy, and unity among students.

EduConnect

Cyber Awareness Session Empowers Students at Keerti Vidhyalaya, Siolim

Tanisha Cardozo

On 30th September 2025, Keerti Vidhyalaya in Siolim became a centre of digital empowerment as students took part in an engaging and essential Cyber Awareness session. The initiative brought together young learners and cyber safety advocates with one shared goal — to build a safer online environment for the next generation.

With the rise of internet usage among students, the session addressed key challenges and everyday risks in the digital world. Students learned the importance of creating strong passwords, identifying phishing attempts and online frauds, and understanding their role as responsible digital citizens. Interactive discussions, real-life scenarios, and simple takeaways made the learning both accessible and impactful.

The initiative was not just about technology — it was about values, responsibility, and awareness. It encouraged students to think before they click, to question what they share online, and to report anything suspicious. Importantly, it reinforced that cyber safety is everyone’s responsibility, starting from the classroom.

This event at Keerti Vidhyalaya is part of a broader movement to ensure that children and teenagers are not only digitally literate but also digitally wise. As the online world continues to evolve, so must our education around it. Together, step by step, we’re shaping a safer cyberspace.