Porvorim, August 07, 2025 – In a progressive move toward digital equity and future-readiness, the Government of Goa has announced the empanelment of new Information Technology Knowledge Centres (ITKCs) under the ST/SC Empowerment through ICT Scheme.
The initiative was launched by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and Minister for ITE&C Rohan A. Khaunte at PAC Hall Secretariat, Porvorim, in the presence of top officials from the Info Tech Corporation of Goa Ltd. (ITG).
💡 Aimed at Building Careers, Not Just Skills
The newly empanelled ITKCs will now operate in six additional talukas: Bardez, Ponda, Salcete, Sanguem, Quepem, and Canacona.
These centres will offer over 33 foundational and advanced courses in high-demand domains such as:
Ethical Hacking
3D Design
Internet of Things (IoT)
Cyber Safety for Women
Robotics
Project Management
Basic Computer Literacy
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said,
“We aim to deepen digital access and provide structured skilling to empower SC and ST youth, helping them become self-reliant and career-ready.”
💻 Free Laptops and Drone Didi Initiative
The scheme goes further than training.
Free laptops will be provided to eligible EWS and OBC students pursuing engineering in Goa.
Goa also becomes the first state to focus on drone pilot training for women SHGs, aligned with the national Drone Didi scheme, promoting rural micro-entrepreneurship.
🌐 Building a Future-Ready Goa
Minister Rohan A. Khaunte stated,
“This is about inclusive tech. We’re not only creating jobs—we’re creating digital citizens who can lead innovation in their communities.”
The ITKCs are part of Goa’s broader citizen-first digital policy, aiming to build inclusive growth, equal opportunity, and a future-ready workforce.
MUMBAI, JULY 15, 2025 – On the occasion of World Youth Skills Day, the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), in collaboration with the Indian Army and REACHA (Research & Extension Association for Conservation Horticulture and Agro-Forestry), launched a Skill Development Centre in Uri, Jammu & Kashmir. This initiative is a significant step toward empowering local youth with job-ready skills and sustainable livelihood options.
The newly launched centre will offer two vocational training programs:
Bakery
Fashion Designing (Weaving)
These programs are tailored to help participants become either employable in hospitality and retail sectors or begin their own entrepreneurial ventures.
A Purpose-Driven Partnership
Mr. Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, IHCL, stated:
“Guided by our ESG+ framework Paathya, IHCL is committed to training 1,00,000 youth by 2030. The skill centre in Uri reflects our deep commitment to inclusive development, especially in regions with tourism potential.”
“We believe in nurturing the community for lasting peace and development. This centre is a testament to collaborative nation-building.”
Mr. Nikhil Pant, Chairman & CEO of REACHA, highlighted:
“Our long-standing partnership with IHCL and the Indian Army continues to bring real change to the lives of youth in J&K.”
Scaling Impact Across Jammu & Kashmir
IHCL and REACHA have already established successful hospitality skill training centres in Kupwara and Buniyar. With Uri added, the collective initiative is set to train approximately 550 youth across J&K by 2026, fostering self-reliance, community upliftment, and employment.
This initiative aligns with India’s national goals for skilling, entrepreneurship, and sustainable regional development — serving as a blueprint for impactful public-private-community partnerships.
Aldona | 26th June 2025 – In its ongoing commitment to shaping responsible and socially aware citizens, St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona marked the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with a powerful and thought-provoking awareness programme held on 26th June 2025. The event aimed at educating students on the grave dangers of drug abuse, tobacco consumption, and alcohol addiction, while encouraging them to embrace a healthy and disciplined lifestyle.
The event commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp, symbolizing the removal of darkness and ignorance. This ceremonial beginning set a reflective tone for the day’s proceedings, aligning with the school’s mission of guiding students towards knowledge, awareness, and self-discipline.
Keynote by Former DIG Mr. Bosco George
The school was honoured by the presence of Mr. Bosco George, former Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Goa Police, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his impactful keynote address, Mr. George presented a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation that captured the harsh realities of substance abuse. Drawing from his professional experiences, he warned students about the long-lasting consequences of addiction—not just on individuals, but also on families and communities.
“The choice you make today defines your tomorrow. Say ‘no’ to drugs and ‘yes’ to life,” he urged, calling upon the youth to be vigilant, responsible, and strong in their convictions.
Student Leadership: PRAHARI CLUB Installation
A highlight of the event was the formal installation of student leaders for the PRAHARI CLUB, a student initiative aimed at fostering discipline and social awareness.
Ms. Shrusti Haldankar was inducted as President,
Master Lionel Godinho took charge as Vice-President.
Both students were entrusted with the responsibility of spearheading anti-drug and pro-social campaigns within the school community.
Participation, Performance & Pledges
The programme featured a heartfelt welcome address by Teacher Nathalie Proenca, who emphasized the importance of staying informed and proactive in the fight against substance abuse.
To reinforce the message of the day, the Anti-Drug Pledge was administered by Mr. Amarnath Panjikar, the school’s NSS Programme Officer, where students solemnly vowed to lead a substance-free life and act as peer influencers for the same.
An emotive musical performance by Ivan Dcruz and a group of students captivated the audience. The original song creatively portrayed the devastating impact of drug abuse, leaving a lasting impression on all present.
In keeping with the theme, a Poster Competition was organized, and prizes and certificates were awarded to students who displayed creativity and awareness through their artwork.
Behind the Scenes: Staff Support and Appreciation
The event was flawlessly coordinated by Teacher Josephine Dsouza, who compered the programme with great enthusiasm. The vote of thanks was delivered by Teacher Silvia Pereira, who extended heartfelt appreciation to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, staff, and students for their active involvement and support in making the event a resounding success.
Among the dignitaries present were:
Principal Angelica Fernandes
Manager Fr. Jerard Sahayaraj
NSS Programme Officer Mr. Amarnath Panjikar
YRC Counsellor Ms. Nathalie Proenca
Faculty and support staff of St. Thomas HSS
Building a Drug-Free Future, Together
St. Thomas Higher Secondary School remains steadfast in its mission to educate, empower, and enlighten its students. Observances like the International Anti-Drugs Day are a testament to the school’s unwavering commitment to building a generation that is not only academically accomplished but also socially conscious and morally grounded.
Through impactful programmes, strong mentorship, and community engagement, St. Thomas HSS continues to lead by example—nurturing young minds to become champions of change in society.
Panaji, Goa – June 20, 2025 In a spirited celebration of values championed by senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, top state leaders of the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) and Goa Pradesh Youth Congress (GPYC) came together with grassroots supporters to mark a day dedicated to compassion, inclusiveness, and youth empowerment.
The event saw the presence of GPCC President Amit Patkar (@amitspatkar), Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao (@Yurialemao9), and GPYC Working President Mahesh Narvekar Dessai (@MaheshNDR). Accompanied by enthusiastic Youth Congress functionaries and volunteers, the leaders joined hands to spread smiles and social awareness through various outreach activities across the state.
Honouring the Spirit of Rahul Gandhi’s Leadership
The celebration was not just symbolic — it was grounded in action. Congress members conducted community engagement drives, interacted with local youth, and emphasized the ideals that Rahul Gandhi has consistently promoted: social justice, youth participation, secular values, and the importance of empathy in leadership.
“Rahul Ji has shown us that politics can be compassionate, that leadership can be empathetic. Today, we are here to live those values through real action in our community,” said Amit Patkar.
Activities That Reflected the Message
The day’s events included:
Visits to shelters and orphanages to share meals and distribute essential items.
Interactive youth circles discussing education, employment, and political participation.
Cleanliness drives in urban and semi-urban areas.
Cultural interactions and creative sessions to engage with school and college students.
“Youth are not just the future — they are the present. Rahul Ji’s message gives us hope that inclusive politics is possible, and that we must build bridges, not walls,” said GPYC’s Mahesh Dessai.
A Message of Unity and Purpose
Yuri Alemao, the Leader of the Opposition, underlined that the Youth Congress is not only a political wing but a platform for social change. “We are here today to demonstrate the power of grassroots connection, and how political movements can transform into movements of kindness and responsibility.”
The GPCC and GPYC plan to continue these outreach activities throughout the year, keeping alive the values of unity, secularism, and compassion that form the backbone of the Congress party’s ideology.
In a vibrant and heartfelt celebration, JCI Vasco marked its 59th JCI Founders’ Day at Hotel Supreme, Vasco, bringing together members, dignitaries, and alumni in a tribute to a legacy of leadership and community service.
The event was graced by the Zone President of JCI India Zone XI, JC…. Shaba Gauns, and Zone Vice President JC…. Dr. Shilpa, adding great significance to the occasion. Their inspiring presence reaffirmed the enduring impact of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) movement in the region.
The evening’s proceedings were led by JC HGF Amol Kamat, who served as the Chief Guest. A respected figure within the JCI network, his words of encouragement and vision resonated deeply with the audience.
Adding to the occasion’s importance was the presence of several Past Presidents of JCI Vasco, whose leadership and contributions over the years laid the foundation for the organization’s continued growth and relevance.
JCI Vasco holds a special place in Goa’s development journey. The chapter was founded in 1966 by an Irish gentleman, Mr. Ian Naylor, whose pioneering spirit introduced the JCI movement to the region. What started in Vasco soon inspired the establishment of new chapters across Goa and parts of Maharashtra, creating a ripple effect of youth development, leadership training, and civic participation.
Junior Chamber International is a global organization dedicated to personal development, leadership, and community involvement. With a presence in over 100 countries, JCI empowers young active citizens to take responsibility for creating positive change in their communities and the world.
At its core, JCI focuses on:
Leadership and personality development
Community service projects
Entrepreneurial skills training
International networking opportunities
Over the decades, JCI Vasco has become a beacon of this mission, nurturing leaders, organizing impactful community events, and inspiring countless youth across Goa.
As JCI Vasco enters its 60th year, the celebrations are not just about honoring the past, but also about envisioning the future. With a new generation of young leaders stepping up, and a strong support system built over five decades, JCI Vasco continues to uphold the ideals of active citizenship, development, and service.
