‘Lusophone Goa’: Tracing the Portuguese Language’ edited by Portuguese MA student Aren Noronha, brings together a collection of first-person narratives dwelling on the multifaceted ties to the language CHRISTINE MACHADO | NT Last year, as a first-year MA Portuguese student, Aren Noronha discovered a few interesting books and records from Goa and Macau in the Central Library, all in Portuguese, and dating from the colonial era. This find made him pause to ponder on the significance of the Portuguese language in today’s Goa. “Like others of my generation, I only had a superficial textbook idea about the situation in Goa and the decline of the language,” he says. His parents suggested he explore his queries further by gathering first-person narratives. “My initial idea was to simply record what people from a particular time had to say. These might otherwise be lost to history,” he says. In February 2025, he sent out a concept note to as many people as he knew who had some connection to the language, requesting their accounts. These included not just residents of Goa, but beyond its borders, including those from Mozambique, Brazil and other diaspora. “The project would only make sense if it included a variety of diverse voices, both young and old; speakers and non-speakers; fluent speakers and new learners; those in Goa and those in the diaspora; […]

Seventeen-year-old self-trained freestyle skater, Janvi Jindal, who hails from Chandigarh, has etched her name in record books through perseverance and determination. Today, she is India’s second highest Guinness record holder in sports MARIA FERNANDES | NT Janvi Jindal from Chandigarh has established herself as one of India’s most remarkable young athletes. A self-trained freestyle skater, she has earned an impressive 11 Guinness World Records, making her India’s top female athlete in terms of Guinness titles and the country’s second-highest Guinness record holder in sports, next only to Sachin Tendulkar. Speaking about her Guinness achievements, she says, “Being mentioned after Sachin sir, someone I’ve looked up to since childhood, feels truly unreal.” Jindal’s Guinness journey began after she turned 16, when her skating categories were officially classified as high-risk. Within just a year of setting her first record, she went on to achieve 10 more. By mid-November 2025, she received official confirmation and certificates for all 11 records, securing her place among an elite group of global achievers. Alongside these milestones, she also holds eight India Book of Records titles, one Asia Record and one Worldwide Record. What truly distinguishes Jindal is the path she took to reach such heights. Without […]

‘Not a Shore, neither a ship, but the sea itself’ at the ongoing Serendipity Arts Festival explores the Indian Ocean’s history and culture through works by 16 artists RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY What if the sea could tell its own stories, not just as a backdrop but as a record of trade, migration and memory? That is the idea behind the exhibition ‘Not a Shore, neither a ship, but the sea itself’, which is part of the ongoing Serendipity Arts Festival. The exhibition has works by 16 artists including Afrah Shafiq, Balraj Khanna, Gaurang Naik, Jovita Alvares, Karishma D’Souza, Krishna Reddy, Madhurjya Dey, Monika Correa, Muhanned Cader, Nataraj Sharma, Pritish Naik, Ryan Abreu, Shivanjani Lal, Simryn Gill, Viraj Naik, and Walter D’Souza. “The title focuses on the sea itself, rather than land or ownership,” says Sahil Naik, who is the youngest curator at SAF. “It is fluid, connected, and constantly changing, just like the histories we are showing in this exhibition.” He further says that the Indian Ocean is portrayed as a cultural and historical network, not just a map. “The works refer to trade routes, colonial encounters, religious exchanges, migrations and ecological links across Goa, the Malabar coast, […]

Celebrating creativity and inclusion, Art Stories brings artists of all abilities to the Serendipity Arts Festival RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY With works inspired from everyday life to far-off dreams, artists with and without disabilities will be displaying their creations will be on display in Art Stories, an exhibition at this year’s Serendipity Arts Festival (SAF). Curated by independent art curator Samira Sheth and led by art facilitator Lioba Knepple, the exhibition grew out of Sheth’s earlier work with artists with disabilities at the Museum of Goa. “It received a really good response and brought the community together. That’s when I came across Divya Sadan, a Caritas Goa initiative and witnessed their dedication to nurturing art. Curating this exhibition feels very special. I believe including all kinds of minds in art makes creativity richer,” she says. Sheth also cites Scottish artist Nnena Kalu, the first artist with a learning disability to win Britain’s Turner Prize, as an example of inclusive art gaining global recognition. The exhibition has 20 residents from Divya Sadan in Porvorim, 61 children from St Francis Xavier Vocational Centre in Old Goa and 21 participants from Caritas Goa’s ‘Art as a Healing Tool’ workshops in Panaji. A […]

PhD scholar Tancia Pires recently showcased an innovative MRI technique for faster and quantitative stroke diagnosis at the 17th World Stroke Congress 2025 in Barcelona, Spain RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT When Tancia Pires submitted her abstract for the 17th World Stroke Congress (WSC) 2025, she had modest expectations. “I was in the early phase of my PhD and had limited data from around 50 patients but my mentors encouraged me to submit my abstract and I thought, why not give it a try?” recalls Pires, now a second-year PhD scholar in Medical Imaging Technology at the Manipal College of Health Professions, MAHE, Manipal. To her surprise, she was selected to present her study in the e-poster highlight category. The WSC, held annually in October, attracts leading neurologists, scientists and researchers from across the globe. Its sessions offer a comprehensive view of cutting-edge developments in stroke prevention, diagnosis and treatment. During the event, Pires attended sessions relevant to her work, including neuroimaging, artificial intelligence and diagnostic innovations, gaining perspective on global approaches to stroke care. She was particularly intrigued by the integration of artificial intelligence, virtual reality and portable MRI and CT scanners, which can be used at a patient’s bedside […]

Goa’s only college-based archaeological museum at Sant Sohirobanath Ambiye College showcases 67 artefacts RAMANDEEP KAUR  Goa’s rich history is now on display at the newly inaugurated Museum of the Archaeological Studies Center at Sant Sohirobanath Ambiye College, which showcases centuries-old artefacts carved in stone and wood. The museum was inaugurated on October 2 by Tourism Minister and Porvorim MLA, Rohan Khaunte and is the culmination of efforts by Rohit Phalgaonkar, curator and coordinator of the Archaeological Studies Center. The initiative was supported by the state’s Education Secretary, Prasad Lolayekar and the director of the Directorate of Higher Education, Bhushan Sawaikar. The idea for the museum emerged in 2022 as part of the Department of History’s efforts to give students practical exposure to archaeological sources, which are essential for understanding Goa’s past. “In Goa, students studying history have limited exposure to archaeology compared to other states. There are fewer sites, and practical interaction with artefacts has been minimal,” explains Phalgaonkar. To bridge this gap, the department began conducting field explorations across villages in Goa. These visits allowed students to experience archaeology firsthand, engage with local communities and identify historically significant artefacts. “Through these interactions, villagers began sharing old objects, some broken […]

As part of Climate Week India, a Youth Climate Unconference will be held at the Goa State Central Library in Panaji, alongside an exhibition on the Goa State Climate Action Plan CHRISTINE MACHADO It is the youth who will inherit the Goa of tomorrow and thus have a pivotal role in paving the path toward a greener, cleaner state. With this aim, Circlewallas and Act for Goa are hosting a Youth Climate Unconference on September 14 at 10 a.m. at the Goa State Central Library, Panaji. The event, open to youth aged 17 to 25, is part of a series of activities organised during Climate Week India, a nationwide movement taking place from September 7 to 14. Speaking about how it all came about, co-founder and co-director of Act for Goa, Joanna Pyres, says the organisation is a collaborative platform bringing together residents and experts. and organisations to create a greener future for Goa. Based on their previous work with young people, they realised it was vital to give this age group a space to be heard. “Young adults have ideas, concerns, hopes, and dreams, but they often lack a platform to express them, and no one is really asking […]

Veteran diplomat and UPSC member Sanjay Verma IFS (Retd.) sheds light on civil service, career paths, and staying relevant in a changing world ADITHI SHARMA | NT KURIOCITY Every August, People’s High School, Panaji, hosts a career talk series for students of Classes 9 to 12. This year’s edition, ‘What Are My Choices?’, featured as per usual, professionals from fields ranging from the arts to public service. From the academic field, UPSC member ambassador Sanjay Verma, IFS (Retd.) was the speaker. A distinguished diplomat, Verma served India for 34 years in various positions across multiple continents. Excerpts from the interview:   What makes a candidate excel in the UPSC written exam and interview? Clarity in communication is key. It comes from clear thinking, which comes from being well-read and analytical. It’s about how you apply the facts available to you. Candidates should approach the syllabus with a broad, real-world perspective, not tunnel vision. Those who connect theory with current events stand out, rather than relying only on outdated textbooks. This applies across subjects like economics, sociology, political science, and science. The UPSC landscape has changed since I appeared for it in 1990. Today more candidates compete, aided by digital resources, […]

Students from Goa, Cape Verde, and Portugal have come together to create the third edition of the book ‘Stories from here and beyond’ ELSTAN NAZARETH In a unique initiative aimed at educating children on various environmental themes and the urgent need for sustainability, the Communicare Trust has worked with students from different countries to create a collection of books titled ‘Stories from here and beyond’. The themes of all three editions of this book are mainly directed towards the Sustainable Development Goals by UNESCO, which are aimed to be achieved by 2030. In its first edition, children from Goa (from a Taleigao school) and Portugal worked on the goal Life on Water. The second edition saw children from Goa (from a St Cruz school), Portugal, and Mozambique working on the goal of Gender Equality. The Trust has now recently released the third edition of the book that dwells on Climate Change and was created by the children from Cape Verde (an island on the west coast of Africa), Portugal, and Goa. In total, 500 students have authored this book. “In Goa, we worked with the students from Class 4 to 9 of St. Andrews ICSE School, Vasco,” says the managing […]

Sancoale’s Angelina Brianna has earned the ‘Princess of Goa’ title at just 12 RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY What started as a love for runway shows and sketching outfits in her notebook has grown into a creative path for 12-year-old Angelina Brianna. Her passion recently brought her into the spotlight when she was crowned Princess of Goa at the Season 9 of Junior Model International (JMI) pageant. “It was such an honour—and a total surprise!” says the student of Class 8 at Navy Children School, Dabolim. “Everyone was so good, I really didn’t think I’d win.” Brianna won the ‘Princess of Goa’ subtitle under the ‘Prince & Princess’ category. JMI, organised by Arun Ratna Fashion Runway International, includes categories like ‘Mr & Miss Teen Super Globe’ and ‘Prince & Princess’. The event, held in Panaji and organised by Fashion Runway International, included auditions, ramp walk training, and a talent round. “I loved the whole experience—getting to know more about modelling, fashion, and meeting so many new people,” says the youngster who dreams of becoming a fashion designer, model, and singer, and is already working on all three. “I’ve always loved fashion,” she says. “Watching Gigi Hadid on the runway made […]

‘Guru, Girls & A Dude Without A Plan’, a vibrant graphic novel by Derek Almeida and illustrator Fabian Gonsalves follows a young man’s unpredictable ride through love, luck, and life in contemporary India RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY Picture Credit: Hemant Parab After more than 30 years in journalism, Derek Almeida wanted to explore a new creative path. Writing a traditional novel felt overwhelming, so he turned to graphic novels—a format he had enjoyed as a child reading comics like Panther and Mandrake. This idea grew into ‘Guru, Girls & a Dude Without a Plan’, a quirky graphic novel created in collaboration with Calangute-based artist Fabian Gonsalves. The story follows Jag, a drifting, relatable character who “just goes with the flow”. While not based on anyone specific, Almeida says the character reflects bits of himself. “Jag represents the kind of people who don’t have a fixed direction,” he explains. “Most of us are like that—we finish school, maybe college, and figure things out along the way. Jag is for those people.” Jag’s look, however, was purely Gonsalves’ creation. The idea for the book first came together around six or seven years ago, during national debates surrounding Gaurakshaks (cow vigilantes). Almeida […]

In an effort to motivate and empower students and competitive exam aspirants, educationist and author Naguesh S. Sardessai has launched his book, ‘Select Essays’ SAILEE NAIK A seasoned academic with over three decades of teaching experience, Sardessai brings both his scholarly insight and grassroots experience with students into his recent carefully curated collection of 15 thought-provoking essays. Titled ‘Select Essays’, the book was formally released by principal of Dempo College of Commerce and Economics, Manoj Kamat recently. The book is meant to serve as a ready reckoner for students preparing for UPSC, GPSC, and other competitive exams. But its relevance doesn’t end there. “Students participating in elocution, debate competitions, and other academic forums will also benefit greatly,” says Sardessai. Topics in this book range from abstract concepts like ‘Time Management’ and ‘There Is No Shortcut to Success’ to socio-political themes such as ‘Indian Republic @75’, ‘Global Warming’, ‘Digitalisation in India’, and ‘India – A New Space Power’. What sets this book apart from others on the market, explains Sardessai, is its accessibility and contextual relevance, particularly for Goan youth. “Many books can be overwhelming for beginners. I’ve written this to be a starting point—something that builds their confidence and ignites a spark for reading and writing,” he says. The essays are designed to reflect national priorities and youth-centric […]

Award-winning career coach, LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and a two-time Josh Talks speaker Aditi Sharma is a much-sought after sales and soft-skills trainer who has helped individuals and organisations grow personally and professionally MARIA FERNANDES |NT Aditi Sharma was born late, almost reaching ten months but was underweight due to which she was kept in NICU for a month. Along with internal weakness, she also developed a skin allergy that she carried throughout her childhood. “This allergy was all over my face, leading to a lack of confidence, fear of speaking my mind in front of anyone, and an inferiority complex that I was not good enough, allowing people to treat me as if I was only there to serve them,” she says, adding that this lack of self-esteem and confidence also prevented her from making friends. To add to this, her father passed away when she was just eight years old. “Despite the fact that my mother has been my strongest and only support throughout my life, I have learned that, for a girl, a father is a different kind of strength who helps her understand how to face the world more confidently,” she says. […]

Mumbai-based Vanessa Essaki, who hails from Margao, conducted unique storytelling sessions with puppets at recent Goa Book Fair and Children’s Literature Festival at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao. She shares more with NT KURIOCITY SMRITI KOTHARE MARDOLKAR What made you come here with your puppets? The prestigious event was happening in my very own hometown, and I definitely wanted to contribute to the cause. It was fuelled by my desire to spread the pure joy of reading and puppet play through fantastic stories written by my mentor, Geeta Ramanujam from her two recently launched books – ‘How and Why of Tales’ and ‘Tales from the World’. When a story relates to a child, stirs their curiosity, and resonates with their innate emotions, an instant connection to the character is built. They are more likely to grab a copy of the book and joyfully take to reading it. This was also a fantastic platform to introduce children to explore and appreciate our rich Goan folktales. My version of the Goan folktale ‘Attulem and Bhitullem’ ignites a fresh perspective the fun way. It allows space for living in harmony, friendship, empathy, and universal acceptance.   How did you feel to be at this festival? […]

Charubala Barik has been using the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to bring about real change in and around her village of Temri. Till date, she has helped approximately 7,000 people MARIA FERNANDES | NT While most of us use Twitter (now known as X) for personal, professional and social use, Charubala Barik has made it a hotline to help the poor and needy in and around her village of Temri in Bargarh district of Odisha. From helping elderly people secure pensions, getting widows financial aid under the social security schemes to assisting individuals with disabilities access their rightful benefits, her work spans multiple areas. Her handle @CharubalaB has 11k followers to date. “At present, I am continuing my fight for the rights of migrant workers who are staying abroad due to poverty and also for basic education facilities for children. Safety and security of people, construction of new roads, bridges, etcetera, are also on my list of targets to be achieved,” says the 26-year-old post-graduate student who is fondly known as Deepa by her villagers.  Beyond personal assistance, the selfless young woman has also addressed community issues. “My aim has always been to ensure that government welfare schemes reach […]

In his latest book, ‘The Adventures of R4’, author Datta Damodar Naik tells the story of a group of children and their magical friends who are on an adventure to bring peace between India and Pakistan NT KURIOCITY  Businessman, social activist, and author, Datta Damodar Naik has released his new book, ‘The Adventures of R4’, for children and young adults. The book focuses on four friends – Ranisa, Raina, Ranvir, and Rehaan – along with their pets: Bingo the dog, Chani the squirrel, Leitao the piglet, and Mittu the parrot. In the story, they meet a magician and a witch who teach them magical tricks like invisibility and mind-reading. Using these powers, the children stop terrorism in the Kashmir Valley and bring peace between India and Pakistan. Naik has been writing in Konkani and Marathi, mostly for an adult audience, for many years. However, it was the birth of his grandchildren that motivated him to begin writing stories in English for children and young adults. His first two English books for children are ‘Uncommon Wealth’, a modern reinterpretation of the ‘Panchatantra’, and ‘The Jungle School’, a contemporary retelling of the ‘Hitopadesha’. In ‘The Adventures of R4’ Naik uses simple and […]

‘The College Uphill’, a recent book by retired professor Sandhya Naguendra Bhandare is a deeply personal account of the resilience of a woman who never gives up ADITHI SHARMA | NT For Sandhya Naguendra Bhandare, a retired professor, writing was a dream deferred—until her retirement in 2021, when she decided to give voice to a passion that had long simmered beneath the surface. Following her first fiction book ‘Khote Nane’, written in Konkani and published in 2022, she has now released her second book, ‘The College Uphill’. In this work, Bhandare takes readers through a gripping and deeply personal account of the challenges and rewards of teaching English for BA and MA in an institution where both professional recognition and personal growth were often out of reach. The book marks the culmination of years of untold experiences, both within the classroom and the corridors of educational administration. “I had always wanted to write. But during my teaching years, I didn’t want my passion for writing to interfere with my commitment to students and my profession,” she says. “Once I retired, though, I found myself ready. The material was already there in my mind; all I had to do was put […]

A new laboratory called Geometers in Tonca is giving schoolchildren a chance to explore science hands-on RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY Curiosity in childhood can spark a lifelong love for learning. In Tonca, Miramar, Geometers is making this happen by providing a hands-on lab where children can explore science through engaging experiments. Founded by two PhD students, Ankit Sinha and Shiva Singh, this space encourages children to move beyond textbooks and gain knowledge through real-world experiences. Sinha specialises in physical sciences, while Singh focuses on biology, allowing children to explore a diverse range of subjects under their mentorship. The lab offers activities that vary from inflating balloons to building drones, microscopes, telescopes, and binoculars. Despite their busy schedules, they dedicate their evenings to this initiative. “Even though we come from different backgrounds, we agreed that the method of conducting science, grounded in practical experience, is consistent across all scientific disciplines,” says Sinha. He explains that he became interested in physics after reading Richard Feynman’s book ‘Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman!’ “In the book, Feynman talks about how he used creative thinking to fix radios as a child. Later, I read his well-known textbook series, The Feynman Lectures on Physics. I […]

Amoli Birewar has been awarded the Docu_Commune grant by the Public Service Broadcasting Trust (PSBT) to produce her first documentary film on rural Maharashtra teens. She is one of five filmmakers selected from across India and the only one from Goa  RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY  Panaji-based researcher and producer, Amoli Birewar earned her degree in media and communication from the Symbiosis Centre for Media and Communication, Pune, before joining Untamed Planet, a film production company which specialises in producing unscripted programs and documentary films for leading broadcast networks. Birewar’s expertise spans feature-length documentaries, short series, and branded content. Beyond her work with Untamed Planet, she freelances in research and production for various documentary projects. Currently, she is directing her first short documentary, ‘Bali’, for which she has been awarded a grant.   Excerpts from an interview with Birewar:  How does it feel to receive the Docu_Commune grant and to be the only recipient from Goa? There were two other filmmakers from Goa, Urvi Keny and Shahrukh Anklesaria, whose projects were also outstanding. Opportunities like the PSBT Docu_Commune grant are rare, especially for early to mid-career documentary filmmakers in India. I’m incredibly grateful and fortunate that, as a first-time director, […]

With International Youth Day approaching on August 12, NT KURIOCITY asks young people about the major challenges they face and their suggestions for tackling these issues   RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY   From environmental concerns in Goa to struggles with social media and finding a career, we hear from youth about their views and ideas for overcoming these challenges.   Goa’s green crisis “We are the generation that has witnessed the development of Goa since the start of the millennium. Many young people may not remember Goa as it was before, due to the way it has been developed to cater to the needs of the wealthy and politically influential. The constant conversion of farmland and ecologically sensitive areas into development projects to meet the demands of migrants seeking the ‘susegad life’ has pushed the state’s biodiversity to the verge of extinction. I suggest that political leaders be truthful with themselves and promote sustainable development by refraining from endorsing unnecessary projects and by protecting the state’s interests. We need to maintain a delicate balance with nature.”   Gautam Sawant, St. Cruz   Social media blues “A major challenge for young people today is seeking approval on social media. This […]

The dynamic field of social media has generated employment for a lot of people and is an up-and-coming career option. Industry experts spill the secrets to NT KURIOCITY SHERYL GONSALVES ‘Just as she opened the door, the lights went out, and everything went black …’ Got your attention? If you’re someone who can grab people’s attention online with quality content, then a social media career may be just for you! What began as a fun way to connect with others has grown into a massive industry, creating millions of jobs, from managing corporate accounts to becoming a successful influencer.   SOCIAL MEDIA CAREER Skills needed But what’s it like to pursue a career in this field? It can be confusing to wonder what skills are needed to stay at the top and be relevant among a whole sea of posts and reels. But chief among these, according to the founder of Growth Gravy Viresh Vazirani, is creativity as one needs to produce engaging and visually captivating content to grab attention. Analytical thinking to decipher data and metrics for strategic decision-making is also a significant skill as is familiarising yourself with social media platforms, tools, and analytics software. “One also needs […]

Schools and colleges in Goa are buzzing with preparations for French National Day, celebrated on July 14. Also known as Bastille Day, it engages students in exploring the rich culture and language of France RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY As French National Day draws near, schools and colleges in Goa which offer French are preparing to celebrate with activities that showcase French culture. Given that July 14 falls on a Sunday, some institutions have decided to celebrate either before or after the day. Manovikas School in Margao will hold its festivities on July 15. The school has planned a series of events for a special assembly. There will be a French prayer and a French song to start. Students will then perform a French cultural dance and a fashion parade. There will also be a French quiz to test knowledge about French culture and history. The assembly will end with everyone singing the French National Anthem. After the assembly, students will compete in a 3D pen art competition and a doodling competition. There will also be a display of French cuisine. At Presentation Convent Higher Secondary School in Margao, the celebration will also be observed on July 15. The assembly […]

On World Food Safety Day observed today, NT KURIOCITY highlights the importance of safe and nutritious food for children RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY To ensure her three-and-a-half-year-old child’s meals are balanced and nutritious, Andrea Fernandes from Cumbarjua includes a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and protein sources in their meals. She plans meals ahead of time, incorporating different colours and textures to make them interesting and nutritious. Recalling a food safety incident, she shares, “Once, I bought cupcakes from a renowned supermarket, but they smelled strange like some acid was used. The taste was off too.” Now, she prioritises buying from trusted bakers and always washes fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption. Indeed, from avoiding adulterated foods to making informed choices about ingredients, parents play a vital role in shaping their children’s dietary habits. “At home, we set an example by practicing healthy eating habits ourselves. Instead of sugary snacks, we promote fruits and nuts as healthier alternatives,” says Fernandes. Miramar-based Bineeta George too, makes sure that bite-sized healthy snacks and nuts are easily accessible for her children to munch on.  Vandana Kakodkar from Ponda also ensures/makes sure that snack options are nuts, seeds, fruits, or homemade ladoos, avoiding […]

Raveena Deshpande from Goa has been accepted into eight prestigious Master’s Degree in Architecture (M.Arch) programs in the United States. NT KURIOCITY gets more details RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY Every Sunday, Raveena Deshpande’s father, an engineer passionate about architecture, would take her to visit construction sites, where she gained insight into how ideas on paper became real structures. Interactions with Charles Correa, who collaborated with her father on Goa’s Regional Plan 2021, also left a deep impact on her. Inspired by Correa’s wisdom and her own fascination with architecture, Deshpande knew by the time she was in Class 10 that architecture was her true calling. She has now brought immense pride to Goa as she has been accepted into the Master’s Degree in Architecture (M.Arch) programs at eight prestigious universities in the United States, including the highly sought-after Ivy League institutions, Columbia University and the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). She also received scholarships from numerous prestigious universities like Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), the University of Southern California (USC), the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Georgia Tech Atlanta. She’s also been awarded a scholarship from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, the alma mater of the legendary architect Charles Correa. […]

The Rotary Club of Panjim is collaborating with Montfort Academy to establish a home-nursing institute in a bid to cater to the growing demand of home-nurses NT KURIOCITY As urban India climbs the corporate ladder, care for the elderly is becoming a challenge. The elders in the house, our parents, grandparents, and even patients needing assistance are often overlooked; due to lack of time. Other family members may be out working the whole day, living in another city or country. It’s a daily challenge to ensure our loved ones are in proper health be it the BP that needs constant checking or medicines that have to be consumed regularly. Imagine having a helping hand at this time. Imagine having someone who cares? It is with this thought that an Institute of Home-Nursing is being set up. The Rotary Club of Panjim is collaborating with Montfort Academy to establish a Home-Nursing Institute. The objective of this course is to train young minds to work as caregivers for patients and the elderly. “Aging is a natural phenomenon and the population of people above 70 years has doubled in the last four decades and it will continue to grow. It is time we […]

Adversity pushed her to seek work at a two-wheeler repair garage in Socorro. But today, woman mechanic Shabeena Shaikh is a testament to the power of determination and resilience Maria Fernandes | NT Picture Credit: Hemant Parab When we go to get our bike repaired or serviced, we automatically assume the mechanic will be a man. It is not often; in fact one can safely say it is rare to see a woman mechanic. But breaking these stereotypes is 37-year-old Shabeena Shaikh who works at a two-wheeler repair garage in Socorro. “Initially, I was met with a lot of surprise, stares, doubt and prejudice. But now the people around as well as regular customers are very comfortable and do not find it out of the ordinary,” says Shaikh. A career as a mechanic was not something Shaikh had planned. In fact, she never thought she would work outside the home. But destiny had other plans. Due to paucity of funds and her father’s prolonged illness and eventual death, she could not pursue her education after class 10. While still a teenager, she was married off as her mother could not provide for her two children. However, tragedy struck again with […]

Educationist Russell Coutinho, who is all set to retire, has quietly left his mark as headmaster of Santa Cruz High School and has touched the hearts of many through his simple ways NT KURIOCITY Russell Coutinho, a humble educator, has quietly made a significant impact on countless lives through his dedication to education. Despite remaining in the background, his work has inspired many to strive for success. The headmaster of Santa Cruz High School, Coutinho always prioritised his students, especially those with special needs, whom he affectionately referred to as ‘the gifted students’. He travelled from his village in Navelim to different parts of Goa every day for 13 years, tirelessly working for the sake of good education. Coutinho’s approach involved seeking solutions rather than dwelling on problems. He cared deeply for the welfare of his students and staff members, leaving no stone unturned to create a conducive learning environment. He believed in inclusive education and, in all fairness, met the requirements of his staff members and students. He attended two international exchange programmes on education in Sweden and Scotland to broaden his vision. He conducted educational tours for students within India and for his staff members not only within India […]

Saroj Prajapati from Shadora village in Ashok Nagar, Madhya Pradesh, has never attended school. Yet, today, she is the founder and proprietor of Mom’s Magic Pickle India. She also supports village farmers and provides employment to local women Maria Fernandes | NT Born in Berkhedi village, Madhya Pradesh, Saroj Prajapati’s parents were farmers and she was one among nine daughters. Growing up with no opportunity for education, she eagerly assisted her mother in the intricate art of pickle-making, imbibing the traditional techniques and family recipes passed down through generations. “Under the guidance of my mother, I made my first pickle when I was 14 and it turned out quite well,” she recalls. Through years of hands-on experience and dedication, she honed her skills in the craft of pickle-making. Her intimate knowledge of spices, flavours, and preserving methods evolved over time, resulting in the creation of exquisite pickles, particularly her renowned mango pickle, which had garnered praise and demand from relatives and friends year after year. The idea for Mom’s Magic Pickle India was sparked at a fortuitous moment while watching an episode of Shark Tank India. The particular pitch that captured 43-year-old Prajapati’s attention was that of a homemade pickle […]

From an art education documentary to a dance performance to an animated film, the Goa Open Arts Festival, which is all set to begin on February 23 will have a segment dedicated to youth creativity RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY With a myriad showcase of various arts, the second edition Goa Open Arts Festival promises to be a treat for the people of Goa. Among the many offerings, the festival will also be highlighting the work of young talents. It will feature five projects born from collaborations with both the youth and the community. Three of these projects resulted from the Goa Open Arts grant. ‘My Inner Self’ ‘My Inner Self’ is an animated film created by a group of Russian-speaking kids of different ages from Goa. It was executed following dedicated workshops facilitated by the Button Animation Studio and offers unique reflections and personal opinions. Director and teacher of the animation studio ‘Da’ St. Petersburg, Katerina Kubareva says that during their workshops, they discussed their opinions on important aspects of life and discovered that these opinions can vary greatly among different people, yet, still be interesting. Button Animation Studio she adds originated from Studio ‘Da’ in St. Petersburg, Russia, […]

Jay Patel from Surat recently showcased his work at the 17th Venice Architecture Biennale in Italy. While he has many architectural accomplishments to his name already, the road to success has not always been smooth. MARIA FERNANDES | NT After completing his bachelor’s degree in architecture from Nirma University, Ahmedabad, Jay Patel, did his masters in architecture from the New York Institute of Technology, New York, in 2019. Since then, he has been dedicatedly making strides in the architecture field. He was invited as a presenter at the XVI International Conference on Urban Development and Planning in New York. His paper on the ‘International Impact on Urban Development’ was selected and published online. In addition, his design work has also been featured on major architecture platforms like Archinect and Architizer. Besides this, he has mentored over 100 students in the U.S.A. and Canada, while also contributing as a guest lecturer and design judge at institutions like the New York Institute of Technology, Kennesaw State University, Urban Assembly School, and Amity University. Patel has contributed to designing more than 60,000 square feet of architectural building design and more than 400 acres of urban/master planning design in the United States, with a […]

With virtual reality, you can now virtually tour every corner of St. Thomas Church, Aldona, from anywhere at your convenience. RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY Celebrating 50 years of youth involvement, vr360degoa recently launched the first-ever 360 virtual map of St. Thomas Church, Aldona, blending technology and spirituality. vr360degoa adds 360-degree virtual tours to websites, ensuring users worldwide can easily explore from the comfort of their homes. These virtual tours work with VR headsets, including devices like Meta, for a richer and engaging experience. The 360 virtual mapping is a representation of the church architecture, carried out by Austin Lobo (Aldona) and Errol Vales (Saligao) from WHN Next (vr360degoa), capturing the essence of its sacred spaces and detailed features. It highlights a commitment not only to technological innovation but also to preserving the rich traditions that have shaped the church for over four centuries. The exciting and engaging experience goes beyond just showing pictures. Compatible with VR headsets such as Meta’s Oculus Quest 2, Apple VR, individuals can now virtually step into the church from the comfort of their homes. This feature allows visitors to walk through the aisles, appreciate the beautiful stained glass windows, and fully experience a sense […]

Marcelle Feigol Guil, the Guimarães Rosa Visiting Lecturer at Goa University is passionate about promoting Brazilian Portuguese language and literature in Goa. She has been instrumental in the founding of Brazilian Literature Book Club which will have its first meet-up on February 3 at The Dogears Bookshop, Margao KALYANI JHA | NT KURIOCITY Tell us more about The Guimarães Rosa Lectureship Programme The Guimarães Rosa Lectureship Programme is an initiative run by the Brazilian Ministry of External Affairs in partnership with the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education in Brazil, granting scholarships to professionals specialised in the fields of languages and literature to promote and disseminate the Portuguese language as well as Brazilian literature and culture in higher education institutions overseas. The programme has a 70-year history and we are currently more than 40 Brazilian lecturers in more than 30 different countries around the world. We meet every year at a symposium named ‘Conecta Leitores’, which is held in a different country each time so that we can discuss and present what we have been doing to meet the goals of the programme, as well as the challenges faced in order to focus on the constant improvement of the […]

As we move through the first month of the New Year, NT KURIOCITY asks a few youngsters if there is something specific they wish to learn more about or a skill they would love to develop this year. In today’s fast-paced work environment, the one skill I would love to work on is active listening and management, as it is key to paying attention to details and simultaneously managing everything around you. In my recent months of work, I have understood the challenges and responsibilities one faces as part of a corporate team. These months have been no less than a roller coaster ride for me. However, every day brings new learnings. I am trying to inculcate and grow in this journey.” Shimona Gracias, commercial executive, Ribandar I want to enjoy every moment of my life. I want to interact with everyone and build up my relationships with them, but at the same time, I’ll be cautious about trusting everyone. This year, I wish to learn different types of art, like resin art, and create home decor. I enjoy88888888888888888888888888 watching the processes people share on social media. I plan to learn from YouTube videos, Instagram reels, or Pinterest and then […]

Parikrama Knowledge Terminus is organising its fifth Academic Forum on January 6 and 7, hosting students, educators, and professionals to explore career guidance and awareness RAMANDEEP KAUR| NT Parikrama Knowledge Terminus was formally established in 2017 by a group of young professionals from academia, industry, media and other fields, to create quality educational resources “We identified the need to develop focused programmes that would aid the professional growth of youth and generate knowledge through participation. The creation of knowledge cannot be restricted to the formal educational ecosystem. Knowledge creation and development of art needs to be participatory as well as interventionist. Parikrama has provided new expressions for the youth for the past seven years,” says president of Parikrama Knowledge Terminus and assistant professor, Goa University, Yugank Naik. Considering its serious outlook, Yugank says they were unsure about how Parikrama would be received. “It was the only multi-disciplinary and multi-faceted initiative in Goa that engaged the masses in knowledge creation. However, participants have carried out Parikrama’s promise vigorously. From Pernem to Canacona, Parikrama has generated immense interest in developing art, literature and intellectualism. Our programmes have remained uninterrupted even during COVID-19, which is a testimony to the fact that Parikrama has […]

Nine-year-old Sistine Menezes recently released her debut books, ‘Bulbul’s Fables’ and ‘Bulbul’s Verseletes’. She shares her journey from being an avid reader to becoming an author RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY It was after reading books like ‘Little Red Riding Hood’, ‘Puss in Boots’, and ‘Panchtantra’ that Sistine Menezes was inspired to explore the world of storytelling herself leading to her two debut books ‘Bulbul’s Fables’ and ‘Bulbul’s Verseletes’. ‘Bulbul’s Fables’ is a collection of imaginative short stories with moral lessons, aiming to not only entertain children but also teach them valuable lessons. These stories were written in a matter of two days during her summer holidays in May 2023. “Initially, I had planned to write 101 stories but settled on 10, with the intention of completing my goal as I grow up,” says the nine-year-old from Raia. “I really love animals, so I wanted to write stories about them. But then I decided to write a story about humans too. I read other stories, added my own special ideas, and wrote them down.” ‘Bulbul’s Verseletes’ meanwhile is a book of poems, mostly centered around nature and her daily life. Through this book, children can gain insights into her life […]

As part of the ongoing celebration of its 60 years, The Navhind Times in partnership with Deccan Fine Chemicals celebrated Childrens’ Day on November 14 with an art competition for students from grades 5 to 12. Students from all corners of the state participated enthusiastically in the event which was held at Dempo House, Panaji. MARIA FERNANDES | NT There was a buzz and flurry of activity as students arrived at the venue and registered themselves in the three different categories. Each category was given a distinct topic to ensure creativity and expression at different levels. The categories and topics were as follows: Grades 5 to 7 – Every child is a leader Grades 8 to 10 – Inclusion for every child Grades 11 to 12 – Digital generation, our generation The competition began at 10 a.m. and participants were given an hour and half to express themselves through their interpretation of the given topic. From pencils to water/oil colours, crayons, charcoal, etcetera, there was a variety of materials used. Participants worked with single-minded focus to create innovative, colourful and meaningful art work. Their creativity and artistic streak were clearly evident in the final outcome. The judge for the competition […]

Goa College of Architecture, Panaji, recently won the first place in ‘Battle of Bands’, a national-level music competition RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT A group of students from Goa College of Architecture, Altinho, Panaji, has brought honour to their institution and the state by clinching first place at a music competition called ‘Battle of Bands’, organised by the National Association of Students of Architecture (NASA India) in Bengaluru. The team of budding architects in the making comprised Vera de Noronha, Mariah Gonsalves, Ansh Volvoikar (vocals), Tenecia Afonso (keyboard), Erwin de Souza (bass), Joshua Mascarenhas (drums), and Shawn D’Sousa (electric guitar). All the students are from different years. “Tenecia, Mariah, and I, being the seniors, called those who were interested in participating and held auditions to select the best among them,” says D’Sousa. The competition, he says, tested their creativity and ability to merge songs into an enjoyable storyline. And their chosen songs, which included a mix of Bollywood, Konkani, and English tracks such as ‘Mitawa’, ‘Tere Naina’, ‘Stand by Me’, ‘Take on Me’, ‘Dildara’, ‘Alice’, ‘Konkani Mashup’, ‘I Will Survive’, ‘Begging’, ‘We Will Rock You’, and ‘Bul Bulaya’, revolved around the theme of unrequited love. “It started with innocent longing and […]

At the age of 22, Kanika Tekriwal founded her startup, JetSetGo, with an aim to reform the private jet industry. In conversation with us, she recounts the journey of her now multi-million dollar aviation company MARIA FERNANDES | NT Kanika Tekriwal’s entrepreneurial journey began at 17, involving business development at Aerospace Resources during her college years, where she identified the potential of India’s charter market. She then equipped herself with a MBA from Coventry University in London. Today, her 11-year-old aviation company, JetSetGo, manages, flies, and operates chartered planes and helicopters for owners. And Tekriwa has earned distinctions such as being among BBC’s 100 most inspirational women and Forbes Asia’s top 30 entrepreneurs under 30 Excerpts from the interview: While private flying is considered a premium luxury, enjoyed by only a few, JetSetGo has changed the game. How did your company come about? I wanted to make private flying more accessible, economical, efficient, and transparent. The idea for JetSetGo came up in a conversation with a colleague in the U.K. I narrated an idea that I had about setting up a thriving aviation company. However, he did not take it seriously and he laughed out loud. Being Indian and adamant, […]

No matter how many degrees and other academic accolades you possess, if you don’t impress during your interview, it will not matter much. ABHISHEK KARMALI A job interview is the most crucial part of a company’s recruitment process in selecting the right candidate for a position. For any aspiring job seeker, the job interview can be the ultimate make-or-break moment in their journey in landing the perfect job. Here are a few pointers to help you out:   Research the company Ensure you have knowledge about the company’s history, the founder, the top management, the product portfolio of the company, the markets in which the company has a presence, its competitors, market share, and any other information which has kept the company in the news in recent times.   Research the job profile you are applying Be very clear about what the job you are applying for will entail. Find out what are the primary responsibilities of the person who will work with that job profile. This knowledge will help you modify your resume to include and focus on certain qualities or experience you possess which would make you more suitable for the job. Also, you will be a lot […]

With Teachers’ Day around the corner, a few youngsters tell NT KURIOCITY which teacher or teachers have had a significant impact on their personal growth and why RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY As another Teachers Day (September 5) draws close, it is a perfect time to reflect on cherished memories and impactful instances that underscore the profound influence teachers have on their students. From life lessons in the classroom and heart-warming interactions beyond textbooks, NT KURIOCITY highlights the enduring teacher-student relationships that leave an indelible mark.   “During my college days at Don Bosco College, Panaji, I gained more exposure to extra-curricular activities because the teachers were so supportive and always pushed us to do something new! One such professor was Ma’am Avril Antao. Not only did she teach us from books and syllabus but she taught us life lessons which I will remember for the rest of my life. She believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself. One such incident was a college event that led me to take responsibility, be accountable, and learn from my mistakes.” – Lilly Dias, sales and marketing, Panaji   “The turning point in my life was when I participated in a patriotic […]

An MoU was signed between TransUSA Exchange, a leading international student exchange organisation and Kamaxi College of Culinary Arts Goa-based culinary students will now have an opportunity to intern and train at well-known hotels and restaurants in the United States of America, as part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between TransUSA Exchange, a leading international student exchange organisation and Kamaxi College of Culinary Arts, Verna. As per the MoU between TransUSA Exchange and Kamaxi College, culinary students enrolled in the latter institute will be offered a comprehensive work-based training programme with a range of benefits, including competitive hourly wages, visa assistance, medical insurance, on-duty meals and accommodation support. The internship and training programme will enable students to work in empanelled hotels and fine-dine restaurants on a J1 visa for a duration of up to 12 months, which is extendable. Students will also have the opportunity to earn between $20-30 per hour, depending on their qualifications and the type of work they undertake. While students of KCCA will get priority access to the opportunities available, Kamaxi is committed to assisting any hospitality student seeking to benefit from this partnership. “The objective of the MoU is to provide students with the […]

US-based student Daffny Cardoso along with her high school’s robotics team, the Steel Hawks, designed a two-week curriculum, under Project India 2.0, aimed at teaching mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and programming to the students of the Regina Martyrum High School, Assolna RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT Daffny Cardoso has always been interested in building robots be it for school projects or when constructing Lego kits. Recently, she worked on Project India 2.0 at the Regina Martyrum High School in Assolna, wherein she taught mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science to 12 students from Class 6 to 8, ultimately guiding them to build a drivetrain robot. “I was truly amazed by the skills showcased by the students and proud of their end result of building a working drivetrain robot. The robot performed the functions of moving forward, backwards, and turning,” she says. Born and raised in New York, USA, Cardoso’s parents hail from Goa; her dad is from Assolna and her mom is from Velim. A student of Townsend Harris High School, New York, her robotics team, the Steel Hawks, builds robots that compete for First Robotics Competitions, a competition where the robots are put up against each other to complete […]

Siya Sarode, a powerlifter from Sanguem, won four medals, including two golds, at the 2023 Special Olympics World Games held in Berlin. The hardships in life keep coming, but she doesn’t give up easily RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY No matter who you are and where you come from, anything is possible if you have the will and desire to do it. Powerlifter Siya Sarode is one such example. Sarode recently won a record four medals – two gold medals (deadlift and squat), bronze in bench press and silver in combine lift – at the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin. The Sanguem-based athlete’s journey to the huge win is a testament to her unwavering determination and the immense support she received from her family, coaches, community and the government. From a young age, Sarode, a slow learner, faced a number of challenges due to her disabilities, but she never allowed them to define her. At first, she was enrolled at a regular school. But it was soon noticed that she needed special attention. Currently, a student of Sanjay Centre for Special Education, Curchorem, she lives with her uncle and his family. Despite the lack of proper transportation and […]

A wrong choice of college can not only put a major financial strain on the parents but can also hamper the career progression of the student ABHISHEK S. KARMALI Having worked at the higher education level for over two decades, I have observed that a vast majority of students have little idea on how to choose the right college to pursue a degree of their interest. Educational institutes today charge lakhs of rupees as fees and a wrong choice of college can not only put major financial strain on the parents but can also hamper the career progression of the student. If you leave out the top-notch premier institutions like the IITs, IIMs, NITs, AIIMS, etc. where a select few smart students get admissions, the vast majority of students complete their education in relatively lesser-known institutions. Hence, there is a need to do thorough research on the institutions before committing your money and future to it. Here is a ready-to-use checklist for choosing the right college/university for admission: 1. Understand yourself and define your career goals: Based on the career you seek to pursue, chart out the educational roadmap which will help you get there. It’s also important to understand […]

Inika Hadfadkar, who recently won the gold medal in the freestyle dance category at the 3rd Mount Everest International Music & Dance Sports Championship 2023 at Tribhuvan University Kathmandu, Nepal, speaks to NT KURIOCITY RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY Dancing has always been Inika Hadfadkar’s passion. “I have loved dancing ever since I was a child but it was in Class 9 that things changed. There was a dance competition in my school and I decided to give it a try. The response I got from the audience was impressive and that’s when I realised that I have the potential and decided to grow as an artiste,” shares Hadfadkar, who then taught herself belly dancing before attending dance workshops and training in Latin dancing. And the 20-year-old recently represented India at the 3rd Mount Everest International Music and Dance Sports Championship held at Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu in Nepal where she won gold medal in the freestyle dance category. “Winning this medal was amazing as this was the first time I represented India. In fact, I did not expect it at all as I did not have enough time for rehearsals. I thought at most I’d probably make it to the […]

There is a huge demand for Artificial Intelligence (AI) experts in the industry owing to growing desire by people for automation in every sphere of life Abhishek S. Karmali What comes to our mind when we think about Artificial Intelligence? The most obvious examples are of Siri, the virtual voice assistant on Apple devices, and Alexa which is the virtual voice assistant that drives Amazon devices. In more recent times, Chat-GPT is the most recognisable AI system that has revolutionised the way we use AI in our day-to-day lives. Chat-GPT is an open-source language model which generates human-like text responses to any questions posed to it. The growth of AI, the recreation of human intelligence in machines programmed to think and learn like humans, has been significant in the last decade. There is a growing demand for AI technologies across different sectors. The two major factors driving this growth are the advancements in AI-related technology and willingness of the industry to adopt AI because of the ever-increasing demand by consumers for automation in every sphere of their lives. This growth of AI has also led to a huge demand for AI experts in the industry. Roles and responsibilities for AI […]

Under the Jan Bhagidari programme, a five-minute street play on G20 Summit, creating awareness about climate change was performed by seven students of Bal Bharati Vidyamandir, Ribandar at Panaji KTC Bus Stand. They were guided by headmistress Apolonia Fernandes along with teachers Mamata Parsekar, Shridhar Garde and Rohit Naik.