Team Goemkarponn
MAPUSA: Five day National level Faculty Development Programme was organised by Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa from 22nd to 26th October, 2024.
The programme was conducted in a hybrid format and brought together faculty participants from institutions across the country.
The inaugural ceremony was held with notable dignitaries in attendance, including Fr. Lucio Dias, President of the Diocesan Society of Education (DSE), and Fr. Jesus Rodrigues, Secretary of DSE.
The event opened with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, joined by Fr. Antonio Salema, Administrator of College; Ms. Ursula Barreto, Acting Principal; Ms. Sandra Fernandes, Vice Principal; Dr. Sharmila Pais, Convenor of the FDP; and Dr Ubaldinha Noronha, IQAC Coordinator. Fr Mariano Dias and Fr Joism De Souza also graced the event. An important highlight of the inaugural session was the release of two significant publications: Xavierite, the college newsletter, and Microscope, the Department of Microbiology’s publication.
Following the ceremony, the first session, “Weaving Stories of Goan Art and Culture: The Kunbi Sari,” was led by architect Pritha Sardesai. She shared the cultural and historical significance of the Kunbi Sari, a traditional garment of Goa’s Kunbi and Christian Gauda communities.
On the same day, Sagar Ram Sakordekar introduced Vedic Mathematics, showcasing its potential in enhancing cognitive abilities and mental clarity. Later in the day, Dr. Maryanne Christine V. Borges e Lobo, a food studies specialist, discussed Ayurvedic health practices, emphasizing the importance of balance among bodily elements, seasonal diets, and mindfulness.
Over the course of the following days, sessions continued to explore educational strategies, including “Empowering Teachers for Lifelong Learning” by Dr. Arlof Johnvieira, who advocated for value-based education as a foundation for character development in students. Dr. Niradhar Dey from IGNOU outlined modern pedagogical approaches, incorporating elements of inclusivity and the use of technology.
On the concluding day, topics expanded to environmental sustainability with Dr. Ashwini Pai Panandikar’s session on “Circular Economy Strategies for Combating Climate Change.” Dr. Panandikar underscored the role of educational institutions in fostering sustainable mindsets and adapting circular economic practices. The final session, “From Stress to Serenity: A Journey to Wellness,” was led by Prof. Sanjeev Sawardekar, who promoted a holistic lifestyle rooted in yogic principles to mitigate stress and improve well-being. The five-day FDP concluded with feedback from participants and a group photograph, cementing St. Xavier’s commitment to advancing holistic education in higher learning.
