EduConnect

Carmel College Hosts State-Level Workshop on Effective Communication for Students


Carmel College of Arts, Science, and Commerce for Women, Nuvem, hosted a One-Day State-Level Workshop on Effective Communication on 20 August 2025. Conceptualized by the Department of English in collaboration with Ms. Mariette Valsan, a seasoned communications professional with expertise in public relations and corporate communication, the workshop offered a vibrant space for students to grow their interpersonal and professional communication abilities.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Brian Mendonca, Convenor of the event, highlighted how communication is often underestimated despite being a crucial life skill. Dr. Aldina Braganza e Gomes, Officiating Principal, in her welcome address, emphasized the importance of being intentional in both speech and silence. She remarked, “You can communicate by speaking, you can communicate by being silent.” Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Head of the Department of English, shared the departmentโ€™s vision and initiatives, and formally felicitated the guest speaker. Ms. Valsan expressed her excitement about engaging with students at Carmel and gave a brief overview of the day’s activities. The programme was anchored by Danielle, while Joanne delivered the vote of thanks.

The day was packed with insightful activities designed to challenge students to reflect on their individual communication styles and unlock their strengths. Whether through team-building games or story-driven presentations, Ms. Valsanโ€™s approach kept participants fully engaged. Her ability to connect with the students through relatable anecdotes made the session not just informative but also inspiring. Participants unanimously agreed that the workshop offered a refreshing perspective on communicationโ€”transforming it from a theoretical concept into a practical, lived experience.

The event showcased how Carmel College continues to provide holistic education, blending academics with essential life skills that prepare students to navigate both careers and communities with confidence.

EduConnect

JCI Pondaโ€™s Junior Wing Conducts JCSAT Exam 2025 to Foster Academic Excellence


Ponda, Goa: In a resounding initiative to promote academic excellence and intellectual growth among school students, the Junior Jaycee Wing of JCI Ponda successfully conducted the JCSAT Exam 2025 on August 23, 2025.

Hosted across two vibrant centers โ€” Mahatma Gandhi Centenary School, Gaunem-Bandora, and Shiksha Sadan High School, Priol โ€” the examination drew 130 enthusiastic participants from 6th to 10th standard, all eager to challenge their knowledge and embrace the spirit of competition.

The JCSAT (Jaycee Competitive Scholastic Aptitude Test) is designed to test general awareness, problem-solving, and academic reasoning, and is a signature initiative by the Junior Jaycee wing under JCI’s youth development programs.

Key Highlights:

  • ๐Ÿ“ Venues: Mahatma Gandhi Centenary School (Gaunem-Bandora) & Shiksha Sadan High School (Priol)
  • ๐Ÿง  Participants: 130 students from Classes 6 to 10
  • ๐ŸŒŸ Focus Areas: Academic aptitude, analytical skills, and personal growth through competition

This initiative reflects JCI Pondaโ€™s commitment to building young leaders, sharpening their academic acumen, and encouraging healthy competition that fosters confidence and curiosity.

Leadership Behind the Event:

  • ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ’ผ JC Vadiraj Inamdar โ€“ President
  • ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿ’ผ JFM Muskan Naik โ€“ Secretary
  • ๐Ÿ‘ฆ JR JC Shrinivas Inamdar โ€“ Junior JC Chairperson
  • ๐Ÿ‘ฆ JR JC Shreeshant Upadhye โ€“ Project Coordinator

Their coordinated efforts, along with the support of the host schools, ensured a smooth, engaging, and impactful event.

โ€œThis is not just an exam; itโ€™s an opportunity for students to explore their strengths and believe in their potential,โ€ said JC Vadiraj Inamdar.

With such meaningful initiatives, JCI Ponda continues to play a vital role in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow โ€” one student at a time.

EduConnect

Career Orientation Program Empowers Std. X Students at DMโ€™s PVS S.M. Kushe Higher Secondary School, Assagao


Assagao, August 19 โ€” In a meaningful step toward student empowerment and academic readiness, DMโ€™s PVS S.M. Kushe Higher Secondary School and Institute of Vocational Studies, Assagao, hosted a Career Orientation Program for Std. X students as part of its Golden Jubilee celebrations (2025โ€“2026). The event was organized in collaboration with the Assagao Super School Complex and held at the Late Shri Hanumant M. Shirodkar Hall.

A total of 429 students from six local schools โ€” Lourdes Convent High School (Saligao), St. Joseph High School (Arpora), Sacred Heart of Jesus High School (Anjuna), St. Michaelโ€™s Convent (Vagator), Sacred Heart High School (Parra), and Assagao Union High School (Assagao) โ€” participated in the session conducted in two batches.

The program featured renowned career counsellor Mrs. Shailaja Sardesai, a certified psychometric test professional from Dishank Academy. Mrs. Sardesai offered students a comprehensive overview of various academic and vocational pathways available after Std. X, from conventional streams like science and commerce to newer, high-growth sectors such as Digital Marketing, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Analytics.

Through an engaging and interactive session, students were able to ask questions, clear doubts, and gain clarity on potential career paths suited to their interests and abilities. The program not only aimed to inform but also inspire students to think critically about their futures.

The event was graced by Vice Principal Mrs. Pratibha Chodankar, Ms. Aquillia Pereira, Convenor of the Assagao Super School Complex, and Mr. Rohan Kishor Manerkar, Convener of the Career Guidance Cell. The session began with an introduction by Mrs. Smita Kalangutkar, while Mrs. Ankita Sawant compered the event. A vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. Rohan Manerkar.

Each participating student received a certificate of participation, and structured feedback was collected to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the session.

This initiative reflects the school’s commitment to holistic student development, ensuring that learners are not only academically prepared but also career-aware as they approach one of the most critical junctions of their academic journeys.

EduConnect

PM Shri GHS Morpirla Celebrates 10th Consecutive Year of 100% SSC Results


Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Morpirla, Goa โ€“ The General Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meeting of PM Shri GHS Morpirla, held on 5th July 2025, became a heartwarming celebration of the schoolโ€™s tenth consecutive year of 100% SSC results.

The event, originally organized to discuss academic updates and policies, quickly transformed into a celebration of academic excellence, with proud parents applauding the tireless efforts of the Headmistress and the entire teaching staff. The achievement, a decade in the making, was recognized as a result of consistent hard work by students and unwavering dedication by teachers.

The Headmistress addressed the gathering and shared how the PM SHRI Scheme has significantly benefited the school. From improved infrastructure and digital classrooms to access to modern learning tools, the scheme has enhanced the overall teaching-learning environment.

During the meeting, the school counselor spoke about the importance of proactive parenting. She encouraged parents to stay involved in their childrenโ€™s emotional and mental well-being, not just their academics. She emphasized open communication and attentiveness to help students navigate challenges both in and outside school.

The Headmistress also shared information about scholarships available for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students, urging eligible families to apply. She took the opportunity to brief parents about the New Education Policy (NEP) and the introduction of โ€˜Parakhโ€™, a modern assessment system focused on all-round development, not just rote learning.

This PTA meeting was more than just a discussionโ€”it was a proud reminder of what consistent effort, strong leadership, community support, and national schemes can achieve in even the most rural schools.

As PM Shri GHS Morpirla moves forward, it does so with confidence, vision, and a legacy of excellence.

EduConnect

Digital Leap for Shri Mahamaya High School with Vedantaโ€™s Support


Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Mayem, Goa | July 3, 2025 โ€” In a significant boost to rural digital education, Shri Mahamaya High School in Mayem has inaugurated a modern computer lab, courtesy of Vedanta Sesa Goa and its CSR arm, Vedanta Foundation. The initiative will benefit over 300 students from Class 5 to 10, empowering them with critical digital skills for the future.

The lab, equipped with modern laptops and educational software, aims to bridge the digital divide and prepare students for an increasingly tech-driven world.

The lab was formally inaugurated by Mayem MLA Premendra Shet, joined by:

  • Dhirajkumar Jagdish, Deputy CEO, Vedanta Iron Ore Goa
  • Rupesh Thanekar, President, Dyanprasarak Vidya Mandal
  • Suman Gaonkar, Principal, Shri Mahamaya High School
  • Students, teachers, and members of the school community

MLA Shet lauded the initiative, stating, โ€œGiving students access to technology is important to prepare them for the future. I appreciate Vedantaโ€™s consistent support toward education and holistic community growth.โ€

Vedanta Iron Ore Goaโ€™s Deputy CEO, Dhirajkumar Jagdish, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative:

โ€œThis lab is not just about installing computers. Itโ€™s about creating opportunities. We believe education, when combined with technology, has the power to transform lives.โ€

The schoolโ€™s Principal, Suman Gaonkar, expressed heartfelt gratitude for Vedantaโ€™s support and stressed how the lab will enhance studentsโ€™ digital literacy and career preparedness.

This lab marks part of Vedanta Sesa Goaโ€™s larger commitment to sustainable development through education. Till date, the company has:

  • Set up 18 computer labs
  • Launched 8 computer training centres
  • Impacted over 5,500 students in Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka

These initiatives aim to promote quality digital education, particularly in semi-urban and rural regions where access to technology is limited.

Vedantaโ€™s continued efforts underscore the role of the private sector in building a digitally inclusive and future-ready India. As more schools like Shri Mahamaya High School go digital, students gain exposure to skills and knowledge that are vital in todayโ€™s world.

With active community participation and sustained CSR investment, such collaborations can redefine the future of educationโ€”one classroom at a time.