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Friday, April 11, 2025

Victorious Feat: Lit Stars Shine Bright!

 Victorious Feat: Lit Stars Shine Bright!



It was a proud moment for Carmel College as our literature enthusiasts, Lysha Fernandes (SYBA) and Sohni Mahatme (FYBA), clinched the top spot at the All Goa Literature Quiz Competition – Lit Star 3.0, hosted by the Department of English, Rosary College, Navelim on 13th March 2025.

The competition saw spirited participation from ten colleges across Goa, including teams from Goa University’s postgraduate department. In a contest that tested literary knowledge, quick thinking, and teamwork, Lysha and Sohni stood out with their sharp responses and confident presence. They brought home individual trophies and certificates, and more importantly, loads of pride and joy to Carmel’s literary circle. Their win not only showcases their dedication and love for literature but also inspires their peers to dive deeper into the world of books, authors, and critical thinking. 

Three cheers to our Lit Stars for lighting up the stage and making Carmel shine!

Field Trip to MOCA, MOG & Navhind Bhavan: Museums, Media & Memories!

Field Trip to MOCA, MOG & Navhind Bhavan: Museums, Media & Memories!








The TYBA English (Honours) students of Carmel College went on a culture-packed field trip to North Goa on the 2nd and 3rd of April 2025, and it was nothing short of a literary adventure come to life. Accompanied by faculty members Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Ms. Roxana Singh, Dr. Brian Mendonca, Ms. Ayeesha Antao, and Ms. Ashwini Kumar, thirteen enthusiastic students dove headfirst into the world of art, history, and media.

Day 1 kicked off at the serene and stunning Museum of Christian Art (MOCA), where curator Ms. Natasha Fernandes gave the group a personalized tour of the collection housed in the historic Santa Monica Convent. With stories of the St. Augustine tower and the history behind intricate artefacts, students were transported to another time. The interactive session left everyone deeply inspired and asking curious questions. Next stop? Museum of Goa (MOG) – and what a visual treat it was! The students were welcomed with a documentary that gave insight into the vision of Dr. Subodh Kerkar, the doctor-turned-artist behind MOG. Each floor told its own Goan tale—through art, folklore, pottery, and installations that sparked both discussion and awe. The day ended on a cozy note with an overnight stay at Kaju Grove, a charming homestay in Gurim that felt like a well-earned break in paradise.

Day 2 began with a visit to the iconic Kala Academy, where Ms. Roxana Singh walked the students through its architectural significance and creative legacy. The final stop was Navhind Bhavan in Panjim, where students met Editor-in-Chief Mr. Vijay DeSouza. In a truly enlightening session, he unpacked the workings of a newspaper—from gathering stories to getting them in print. He also shared internship and career tips for budding writers and media enthusiasts. The trip wrapped up with minds full of memories and notebooks full of insights. Art, architecture, storytelling, and media—all in two days? Now that’s what we call a classroom without walls!

Guest Lecture on “Ayurveda and You” – A Wellness Wake-Up Call!

 Guest Lecture on “Ayurveda and You” – A Wellness Wake-Up Call!

On the bright and breezy morning of March 22, 2025, the College Auditorium of Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women buzzed with fresh energy—not just because of the early start at 9:15 a.m., but because it was time to talk wellness the old-school (read: ancient and wise) way!

The Department of English, teaming up with the Department of Physical Education, Sports, and the Yoga Centre, hosted an enlightening guest lecture titled "Ayurveda and You: Tips on Health and Wellness." And who better to guide us through the magical world of turmeric, tulsi, and timeless traditions than Sr. Maria Saviola A.C., a seasoned expert in Ayurveda and holistic wellness?

Sr. Maria had everyone wide-eyed (and taking notes!) as she walked us through the basics of Ayurvedic living—seasonal eating, mindful habits, and those miracle Indian spices sitting right in our kitchens. From sipping warm water in the morning to balancing our doshas, the tips were simple, doable, and totally eye-opening. The Q&A that followed saw curious minds and animated questions flying across the room. Clearly, Ayurveda had struck a chord! Students and faculty alike were charmed by the idea of blending ancient wisdom into our fast-paced lives. The session wrapped up on a grateful note with Synora Picardo, Director of Physical Education, delivering a warm vote of thanks—expressing appreciation for Sr. Maria Saviola’s grounded guidance and the organizing teams’ efforts in making the event so lively and meaningful.

Verdict? Enlightening, engaging, and energizing—a total wellness win!






Thursday, April 10, 2025

Open Mic – Women’s Day Vibes Unplugged!









Open Mic – Women’s Day Vibes Unplugged!

Who said Women’s Day had to be all speeches and flowers? At Carmel College, we celebrated it with a mic, a spotlight, and a whole lot of heart!

On March 11, 2025, the Departments of English, Hindi, Konkani, and the Women’s Cell teamed up to throw an Open Mic bash that turned the college auditorium into a stage bursting with talent, laughter, and unapologetic self-expression.

From soulful poetry to hilarious stand-up comedy, powerful storytelling to groovy dance moves—34 students lit up the stage in English, Hindi, and Konkani. Each performance was a little world of its own—raw, real, and ridiculously fun. The event kicked off with a short intro reminding everyone why Women’s Day matters, and then it was all vibes, volume, and vulnerability. There were verses that tugged at heartstrings, songs that echoed with emotion, stories that sparked laughter and reflection—and even a few moves that made the audience want to jump up and dance!

The Open Mic wasn't just an event—it was a movement in miniature. A safe, celebratory space for young voices to be loud, proud, and heard. A big shoutout to all the participants who brought their A-game and reminded us that art really does speak louder than words. The vote of thanks was proposed by the ever-energetic Ms. Ashwini Kumar, faculty from the Department of English and the mastermind behind the mic.

In short: hearts were full, voices were heard, and Women’s Day at Carmel? Totally rocked.







Film Screening of The Club – 12 March 2025

 

Film Screening of The Club – 12 March 2025



The Department of English at Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women hosted a special screening of The Club, a documentary by filmmaker Nalini Elvino de Sousa, on 12 March 2025 in the college auditorium. The screening complemented the SYBA Major paper on Goan Diasporic Literature, which explores the experiences of Goans in British-ruled East Africa. Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Head of the Department, introduced the filmmaker and contextualized the significance of cross-migrations in the Goan diaspora. Nalini shared how a trip to Zanzibar led her to uncover the deep-rooted Goan connections in East Africa, culminating in a film that captures the centenary celebrations of the Goan Club in Dar-es-Salaam.

Through warm interviews and nostalgic memories, the documentary traced the lives of Goans who migrated in search of better futures, their cultural legacy, and their love for music, language, and belonging. Students found the film moving and insightful, appreciating the rich history and identity captured on screen.


Guest Lecture by Dr. Rajan Barrett: Challenging the Boundaries of Dalit Literature

 

Guest Lecture by Dr. Rajan Barrett: Challenging the Boundaries of Dalit Literature

On 4th February 2025, the Department of English at Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women, Nuvem, hosted a stimulating and deeply reflective guest lecture by renowned scholar and former faculty of the Department of English, Maharaja Sayajirao University, Vadodara — Dr. Rajan Barrett. The session was titled Dalit Literature: A Misnomer? and offered students and faculty a compelling foray into the complexities and nuances of Dalit writing in India.

The event began with a warm welcome by Principal Dr. Sr. Maria Lizanne, followed by an introduction to the speaker by Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Head of the Department of English. Dr. Barrett wasted no time in diving into the heart of the debate — is "Dalit Literature" a useful category, or does it risk oversimplifying a diverse and layered set of experiences?

In his characteristic style — both provocative and erudite — Dr. Barrett argued that Dalits are not a monolithic group, and their identities are deeply interwoven with intersections of caste and class. He discussed Bama's Karukku (a landmark Tamil Dalit text), while also navigating the revolutionary spirit of the Dalit Panthers movement.

Referencing Aniket Jaaware's powerful essays such as Eating, and eating with, the Dalit and Destitute Literature, Dr. Barrett invited the audience to rethink notions of representation, voice, and literary ownership. The talk also touched upon canonical works like Vijay Tendulkar’s Mitrachi Goshta, bridging the conversation across genres and regions. The event was coordinated by Dr. Brian Mendonça, who currently teaches the Dalit Literature course to Second Year BA students. The session concluded with a thoughtful vote of thanks delivered by student Lysha Fernandes, who captured the audience’s appreciation for a lecture that was equal parts challenging, eye-opening, and intellectually nourishing. The talk didn’t just add to the students' academic toolkit—it inspired a shift in perspective. 

Guest Lecture Recap: 'Mirror Cracked from Side to Side – Partition of the Self' by Dr. Amit Ranjan

 


Guest Lecture Recap: 'Mirror Cracked from Side to Side – Partition of the Self' by Dr. Amit Ranjan

On December 20, 2024, the Department of English at Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women, Nuvem, Goa, hosted a powerful and thought-provoking guest lecture by Dr. Amit Ranjan—poet, author, and faculty at CIET, NCERT, New Delhi. The lecture, titled Mirror Cracked from Side to Side: Partition of the Self, was conducted as a value addition for students of the BA Honours course in English, particularly enriching their understanding of Partition Literature.

Dr. Ranjan delved deep into the heart of Partition as not just a political or historical event, but a personal and psychological rupture. Framing the conversation around the “partition of the self,” he traced the trauma, displacement, and identity crises that emerged in the wake of 1947—especially for women, who bore the brunt of violence, erasure, and silence.

With deft literary insight, he unpacked The Shadow Lines by Amitav Ghosh and drew compelling parallels with films like Khamosh Pani and Qissa, sparking fresh reflections among students. A special moment in the session was when he read his evocative poem Parallel Lines—a piece that resonated deeply with the audience for its emotional intensity and quiet poignancy. Adding to the academic richness of the event, Dr. Glenis Mendonça, Head of the Department, offered insights into oral narratives surrounding Partition across borders, while Dr. Brian Mendonça, who teaches the Partition Literature course, reflected on its contemporary relevance. The event was beautifully anchored by students Akaisha and Akanksha, who introduced the speaker and proposed the vote of thanks.

The lecture left students not just with notes, but with an emotional and intellectual imprint—one that challenged them to engage with the fractures of history through the lens of literature.

Certificate Course: Life Skills 101 – Crafting the Perfect Personality





If there’s one thing that never goes out of style, it’s personality—and Carmel College decided to take that idea seriously with Life Skills 101: Crafting the Perfect Personality, a 30-hour certificate course that ran from 1st to 15th February 2025. Hosted by the Department of English, the course was a fun, transformative journey aimed at helping students become the best versions of themselves—inside and out!

The course kicked off with an inaugural session on February 1, 2025, in the presence of enthusiastic participants, the English faculty, and the expert resource persons. Coordinated by faculty member Ashwini Kumar, this course was all about stepping up your game in life—whether in college, at interviews, or just in everyday interactions.

The dynamic duo of Kanan Tandi and Runa Menezes, both powerhouses in their fields, led the sessions with flair, heart, and a whole lot of real-world wisdom. With students joining in from all streams—Arts, Commerce, and Science—the classroom was buzzing with energy and eagerness to grow.

So what exactly did this course offer? Think everything from decoding body language to mastering the art of stress management. Whether it was time management tips, self-presentation hacks, or developing emotional intelligence, the sessions were loaded with interactive activities, role-plays, practical tasks, and meaningful conversations. It wasn’t just theory—it was learning by doing, reflecting, and growing. Students didn’t just sit back and listen—they dived right in. Lively group discussions, real-life scenario enactments, and collaborative tasks brought the sessions alive, and by the end of it, everyone walked out a little more confident, a little more aware, and a whole lot more ready to take on the world.

The grand finale? A lovely valedictory function where the 27 proud participants received their certificates in the presence of Sr. Ishapriya (Manager of the Institution), resource person Runa Menezes, Dr. Glenis Mendonca (Head, Department of English), Roxana Singh, and course coordinator Ashwini Kumar. The vote of thanks, proposed by Mr. Kumar, reflected heartfelt appreciation for everyone who made the course a resounding success—including Principal Dr. Sr. Maria Lizanne AC and faculty member Faye Pinto from the Department of Psychology.

With its mix of practical knowledge, hands-on activities, and inspiring mentorship, Life Skills 101 proved to be more than just a course—it was a launchpad for self-discovery, confidence, and success. Here's to crafting stronger, smarter, and savvier personalities—one life skill at a time!

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Students at GALF 2025: A Festival of Books, Brilliance, and Big Vibes

Students at GALF 2025: A Festival of Books, Brilliance, and Big Vibes


The Goa Arts and Literature Festival (GALF) 2025 lit up the city—and our Carmel College students were right there, soaking in the magic! Held at the ever-charming ICG on February 14 and 15, GALF turned into a cultural carnival, and our girls showed up in full spirit, hearts open and notebooks ready. From FY to TY, across Arts, Commerce, and Science, we had a supercharged turnout—55 students on Day 1 and 41 on Day 2 (with a few die-hards coming on both days!). The festival buzzed with energy, curiosity, and that unmistakable “so much to see, so little time” feeling. Sessions were happening in parallel, books were being launched left and right, and deciding what to attend felt like a fun academic treasure hunt.

The line-up was absolutely fire: talks on art in Mumbai, theatre in Hyderabad, the poetic legacy of Mir in Delhi, and an inspiring session with writer Sumana Roy from Siliguri. One of the sweetest surprises? Our Manipuri students got to chat with Manipur-based bookseller Martin Thokchom—it was such a wholesome, cross-cultural moment, and it made the GALF vibe even more memorable.

And let's not forget the setting—green lawns, vibrant shamianas, and ICG’s legendary hospitality. With breakfast, lunch, and chai breaks perfectly timed between literary deep dives, the festival had something for both the mind and the tummy. Students didn’t just attend—they experienced. Many journaled, blogged, and captured their reflections, turning GALF into a living, breathing extension of their classroom. Leading the charge were Dr. Glenis Mendonça, Head of the Department of English, and Dr. Brian Mendonça, Assistant Professor and official Festival Delegate, who cheered the students on through it all.

All in all, GALF 2025 was less of a field trip and more of a full-blown festival—with books, ideas, and a whole lot of heart. Here’s to more such literary adventures!


Student Participation in the Workshop: The Road Less Taken

Student Participation in the Workshop: The Road Less Taken


Exploring Unconventional Paths, One Story at a Time
On 7th February 2025, six students from the Department of English at Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce found themselves at the scenic Pilar Pilgrim Center for a career guidance workshop that truly lived up to its name—The Road Less Taken. Hosted by Fr. Agnel College, Pilar, the workshop ran from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and brought together a brilliant lineup of speakers who’ve carved their own unique niches in the world of literature, media, and the arts. From Leonard Fernandes of Dogears Bookshop to Pratik Joshi of Soul Travelling, from short story writer Sheila Jaywant to the ever-energetic emcee Damian Carvalho, and finally, the storytelling duo of journalist Fredrick Noronha and filmmaker Jojo D’Souza—each one had an inspiring tale to tell.

Our student squad—Pearlin Gonsalves, Aisha Khan, Janice Silvera, Marvel Gomes, Pearl Cardoso, and Deepika Iti—soaked in the stories, scribbled notes, and left with a fresh perspective on careers that don’t follow the traditional track. The speakers didn’t just talk about success; they shared their struggles, side-hustles, passions, and the power of simply doing what you love. The entire experience was a reminder that with creativity, courage, and a little bit of curiosity, the road less taken can lead to some amazing places.

Pegasus 2025 Carmelites Fly High at Chowgule’s Literary Fest

 


Pegasus 2025

Carmelites Fly High at Chowgule’s Literary Fest

Pegasus 2025 turned out to be an unforgettable ride for the English Majors and Minors of Carmel College! Hosted by Parvatibai Chowgule College of Arts and Science, Goa, this 15th edition of the annual literary festival took place on January 15 and 16, and boy, did it have everything—drama, debates, slam poetry, treasure hunts, culinary magic, and more! With 20 enthusiastic FY and SY students taking part in a whopping 23 events, Team Carmel brought their A-game to every stage, spotlight, and mic. Whether it was flexing creative muscles in art and craft or setting the stage on fire with performances, our girls gave it their all—and it paid off. Competing against nine other colleges from across Goa, we proudly bagged the overall third place. Shoutout to Ms. Ayeesha Antão, our ever-energetic teacher coordinator, who not only guided us but also cheered the loudest from the sidelines. Pegasus wasn’t just a competition—it was a celebration of talent, teamwork, and a whole lot of Carmel spirit!






Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Carmel Faculty Explores Interdisciplinary Research at BITS Goa

Carmel Faculty Explores Interdisciplinary Research at BITS Goa

A Dive into the Global South through Academic Discourse
From January 22 to 24, 2025, BITS Goa hosted a three-day intensive Young Researchers Conference and Workshop on Academic Writing under the theme Inter-Disciplinary Approaches to Understanding the Global South. Representing Carmel College, Ms. Ashwini Kumar from the Department of English participated in the event and presented her research paper titled Supernatural Feminine Justice, a Reflection of Socio-Cultural Trauma: Revisiting Stree 1, Stree 2, Kaali Khuhi and Tumbbad. The paper was well received and appreciated by participants and faculty. Alongside the presentations, the workshop segment was conducted by renowned scholar Prof. Laxmi Subramanian, who focused on strategies and techniques in academic writing and publishing. The sessions proved to be highly effective, offering valuable insights into structuring interdisciplinary research, building strong arguments, and engaging critically with the theme of the Global South.




Field Trip to Goa University to watch the play No Flowers, No Wreaths by Orlando Da Costa

Field Trip to Goa University to Watch the Play No Flowers, No Wreaths by Orlando Da Costa

A Live Performance of a Prescribed Text
On January 8, 2025, the students of Second Year Major III, accompanied by Dr. Glenis Mendonca, visited Goa University to watch the play No Flowers, No Wreaths written by Orland Da Costa and translated by Isabel de Santa Rita Vás. The production was presented by the School of Shenoi Goembab of Languages and Literature, in collaboration with the Mustard Seed Art Company, and was staged at the Chemistry Auditorium, Block E, Goa University.

Theatrical Interpretation and Tribute
The play began on time at 4:30 PM and was performed with great sensitivity and finesse. Each scene was executed beautifully by the actors. At the end of the play, the cast was introduced to the audience, and a heartfelt vote of thanks was delivered. The evening concluded with an emotional tribute from Rosa Maria Perez, a close friend of the late author, who shared personal memories and her deep admiration for Orland Da Costa. Since this play is prescribed in the students’ syllabus, the opportunity to witness it on stage was both educational and impactful.

 


Field Trip to the Serendipity Arts Festival 2024: Exploring Goa’s Cultural Canvas

Field Trip to the Serendipity Arts Festival 2024


Exploring Goa’s Cultural Canvas

A field trip to the Serendipity Arts Festival was organised for TYBA English Honours, SYBA, and FYBA Major/Minor students under the initiative of faculty member Ms. Ayeesha Antão. Sixteen TY, five SY, and four FY students participated in the visit to four major venues of the festival on Saturday, December 21, 2024. These included the Directorate of Accounts, The Excise Building, the Old GMC Complex, and the Art Park. Ms. Ashwini Kumar also joined the trip.

Art in All Its Forms
The Serendipity Arts Festival offered a rich spectrum of artistic disciplines—visual, performing, culinary, and craft-based. At the Directorate of Accounts, students engaged with exhibits like "Songs of Day and Night," merging music and time, and "The Gond Scapes," highlighting traditional Gond art. The exhibition "Bhupen in Goa" shed light on Bhupen Khakhar’s ties to the region, while "A Visual Encyclopedia of Indian Foods" explored culinary diversity across India. The Excise Building housed installations like "Carbon," which encouraged viewer interaction, and "Ghosts in Machines," an exploration of art and technology. At the Old GMC Complex, students experienced the participatory artwork "Multiplay" by Thukral & Tagra, "A Haptic Score" centered on tactile engagement, and performances such as "Rage In Making/Rage In Rest." The Art Park featured exhibits like "Memory of Birds" and "Traveling Balcãos," both themed around ecology and community.

A Cultural Feast
Besides the exhibitions, students enjoyed the vibrant food stalls and live music performances. The objective of the field trip was to expose students to varied forms of contemporary and traditional art while encouraging appreciation for a major cultural event hosted within Goa. The experience proved to be both enriching and enjoyable for all participants.




Voices of Inclusion: National Symposium on Gender Diversity at Carmel College

Voices of Inclusion: National Symposium on Gender Diversity at Carmel College

Celebrating the Spectrum
As part of its Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women, Nuvem, in collaboration with the Goa State Commission for Women, hosted a National Symposium on Gender Diversity on 26th September 2024. The event was inaugurated by Principal Dr. Sr. Maria Lizanne A.C., who emphasized the unique role the college plays as the only women's college in Goa. The dais also welcomed GSCW representatives Ms. Ranjita Pai and Adv. Deepali Kare. Ms. Pai underlined the importance of gender sensitization and elaborated on the Commission’s ongoing interventions for marginalized communities, especially women. Dr. Brian Mendonca, convenor, introduced the symposium’s vision, and Dr. Glenis Mendonca delivered the vote of thanks. Ms. Roxana Singh compered the session.

A Keynote Grounded in Reality and Theory
Renowned academic and activist Dr. R. Raj Rao delivered the keynote address. He was felicitated by the Principal with a plaque. In his address, Dr. Rao explained the distinction between sex and gender, referencing Simone de Beauvoir and unpacking the LGBTQ++ spectrum in a clear and accessible manner. His second session focused on the texts My Beautiful Laundrette and Lihaf, contextualized within the framework of gender diversity. Both sessions sparked rich discussions, and Dr. Rao’s responses to audience questions were articulate and thought-provoking.

Art, Academia, and Expression Collide
The symposium saw participation from 107 delegates across institutions, who presented posters, research papers, poetry, performances, and personal testimonies. Eleven creative posters were displayed under the administrative block, with each student-artist explaining their interpretation of gender diversity. Performances included poems themed on LGBTQ+ experiences, student testimonies like ‘Love Has No Gender’, and a vibrant open mic session. A parallel faculty session held in the IQAC Conference Room featured eight paper presentations on topics like “Gender Diversity in Bihar” and “Gender Fluidity in Shakespeare’s Plays.”

Performative Power
The auditorium became a space of vibrant artistic expression through a dance-drama segment, including a play titled Juliet and Juliet, a mime, a fashion show on gender fluidity, and two dance pieces—all exploring gender identity and inclusivity. Simultaneously, a parallel student session in UGCR10 included academic paper presentations and video discussions that delved into various facets of gender diversity.

A Day of Dialogue and Discovery
This non-competitive, interdisciplinary symposium fostered inclusive dialogue, artistic exploration, and academic engagement with the evolving conversation around gender. It marked a significant step in Carmel College’s continued commitment to fostering understanding, awareness, and sensitivity through education and expression.



Annual Orator Contest at Carmel College of Arts, Science, and Commerce for Women

Words that Moved: Annual Orator Contest at Carmel College


A Stage for Voices and Vision

The Annual Orator Contest at Carmel College of Arts, Science, and Commerce for Women was held on 19th September 2024, bringing together ten eloquent finalists who showcased their flair for public speaking. With themes ranging from ‘G.O.A - Greatest Opportunity Arrives. Goa available to the highest bidder’ to ‘Infantilization of Women’ and ‘Artificial Intelligence: Work Smarter, Not Harder’, the contest encouraged bold opinions and critical insights on pressing social issues. The participants impressed the audience and judges alike with their persuasive delivery, sharp observations, and thought-provoking arguments.

The judging panel comprised Mrs. Shubhaangi Thakur, Mr. Rahul Chandawarkar, and Mr. Daniel De Souza, each highly regarded in their respective fields. Their expertise added weight to the event and lent credibility to the evaluation process. After a lively contest, Danielle Sales from FYBA secured the runner-up position, while Kiarra Tresca from SYBA was declared the winner, marking the end of a vibrant celebration of ideas and expression.



Exploring the Future of Literary Research: Carmel Faculty at AI & Literature Workshop

Exploring the Future of Literary Research: Carmel Faculty at AI & Literature Workshop

A Confluence of Literature and Innovation
On 22nd August 2024, two faculty members from the Department of English, Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women, Nuvem, participated in a one-day state-level workshop titled ‘Harnessing AI for Research in English Literature’ at DM’s College, Assagaõ, Bardez, Goa. The event, aimed at academicians, scholars, and students, was conducted by Dr. Prasad Kulkarni from Gogate College of Technology, Belgaum. Faculty members Ms. Roxana Singh and Ms. Ashwini Kumar represented Carmel College at the workshop.

From Theory to Hands-On Learning
The day began with an inaugural session and refreshments, followed by two interactive sessions—one before and one after lunch. The workshop offered insights into a variety of free AI tools designed to assist in academic writing and research, such as ChatGPT, AntConc, Gamma, Claude AI, KibbleAI, Orangemini, aiXcoder, SlidesAI, and GitHub Copilot. Participants were guided through hands-on activities related to writing research abstracts, outlining methodologies, identifying limitations, and structuring academic papers.

Looking Ahead
The workshop provided practical exposure to integrating AI tools in research, reinforcing the idea that digital aids can complement, not replace, critical inquiry in the humanities. The experience marked an important step for the participating faculty in exploring the potential of AI to support and streamline academic research in English Literature.



















Flags, Folklore & Festivities: Carmel College at Bonderam 2024

Flags, Folklore & Festivities: Carmel College at Bonderam 2024


What do you get when you mix tradition, turmeric, pattoleo, and a brass band? A field trip that feels more like a festival!

On 17th August 2024, the students of Carmel College, Nuvem took a joyful detour from the classroom to the picturesque Divar Island to experience Bonderam — Goa’s iconic flag festival that celebrates history, heritage, and hearty community vibes.

Crossing the Waters, Stepping into Story
Sixty excited students from FYBA and TYBA (English & History Honours), accompanied by four enthusiastic faculty members — Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Dr. Brian Mendonca, Ms. Ashwini Kumar, and Ms. Salome Fernandes — set foot on Divar at 11 AM, ready for a day that promised more than just sunshine.

And oh, it delivered.

Culture in Action: Workshops & Talks
From learning how to make mollam and rottesão, to understanding the healing power of turmeric leaves, students dove right into local wisdom and crafts. They even watched a live demo on how to make pattoleo — a Goan sweet steamed in turmeric leaves — and got to taste it too. (Spoiler: it was delicious.) Adding more depth to the day, Mr. Marius Fernandes — the ever-spirited Goycho Festamcar — personally welcomed Carmel students and applauded Dr. Glenis Mendonca for spearheading this cultural exchange. The session then shifted gears into something more urgent and inspiring. Dr. Rajendra Kerkar, a well-known environmentalist, delivered a compelling TED-style talk on nature conservation and tiger protection — a powerful reminder that traditions and sustainability must go hand in hand.

Music, Dance & Island Rhythms
After minds were nourished, it was time for the soul to dance. Traditional music group Malarchim Motiam had students singing, clapping, and dancing to Goan folk tunes. The joy was contagious.

A hearty traditional lunch followed — because what’s a Goan celebration without soulful food?

The Grand Passoi: Bonderam in Full Bloom
At 2:30 PM, students joined locals for the Bonderamchi Passoi — a festive procession led by flag bearers. The first stop was the Picardo house, where Carmel students stole the show by performing the Kunbi dance to the rhythm of a live brass band while others sang “Orrad Ami Goyenkar.”

At each stop, participants were treated to local delicacies — mandos, doce bhaji, pudde (khole), and aatol — served with pride and love. The three-kilometre heritage walk wasn’t just a stroll; it was a moving classroom. With a live compere sharing stories, students learned about the origins of Bonderam, its colonial roots, and how the festival has evolved while staying deeply rooted in community spirit.

More Than a Field Trip
For many students, this was their first immersive experience of island life and traditions in North Goa. Phones came out, reels were made, memories were captured — and Instagram lit up with snippets of this vibrant day. The Bonderam Field Trip 2024 was a celebration of culture, connection, and curiosity. What started as a college-organized field visit turned into a heartwarming, soul-stirring encounter with Goa’s living heritage.


Storytelling Beyond Borders: A Multilingual Celebration of Varsal at Goa University 📖🌿

What happens when languages meet literature and culture meets community? Pure magic.


On August 1, 2024, seven students from the Goan Literature in English Translation course (Semester III) packed their notebooks and curiosity and headed to Goa University for something truly special — a Multilingual Reading of Varsal by acclaimed Goan writer Prakash Parienkar.

A Story, Many Tongues

Hosted at the Shenoy Goembab School of Language and Literature, this wasn’t your average reading. It was a vibrant, multi-lingual performance of Varsal — a story rooted in the lush landscapes and deep-rooted traditions of Sattari, the author's own village. Guided by Dr. Glenis Mendonca, the students got to not only hear the story in multiple languages but also feel its layers through rhythm, tone, and cultural context. Faculty from different language departments brought their unique voices to the stage, making the reading feel like a chorus of Goa’s linguistic soul.

Meeting the Mind Behind the Words 🧠💬

And then — the moment that lit up every lit lover’s heart — Prakash Parienkar himself took the mic. He spoke about the socio-cultural and ecological roots of Varsal, painting vivid images of rural life, traditions, and the shifting dynamics of his village in Sattari. Listening to the author speak about his own story added a whole new depth to the experience. After the reading, students explored a buzzing book fair set up on campus. Let’s just say — wallets were lighter, but hearts were full. There’s nothing quite like the joy of discovering new stories to take home. Literature is powerful, but when it’s read aloud in different tongues, explained by the author, and shared in a community of readers — it becomes alive. This trip to Goa University was more than an academic event; it was a celebration of stories, language, and the landscapes that shape us.

Monday, April 7, 2025

Dreaming Beyond Borders: What We Learned About Studying Abroad 🌍✈️

What if your classroom was in London, your dorm had a view of the Eiffel Tower, or your next chai break was with friends in Sydney? That dream doesn’t have to stay a daydream. On 25th July 2024, the students of Carmel College got one step closer to turning those dreams into real-life boarding passes!

In a special collab with Eduadvise International, the Department of English hosted a super insightful session on ‘Overseas Education’ — think of it as a crash course in how to study abroad without losing your mind (or your money).

Dr. Glenis Mendonça, our Head of Department (and major motivator!), opened the session by talking about why global education is more than just an academic move — it’s a life upgrade. Then came Dr. Brian Mendonça, who introduced the day’s star speaker: Mrs. Gayatri D’Silva, a certified British Council Counsellor and an all-round pro at overseas education guidance.

From IELTS to Inflation: What We Learned 📚💰

Let’s be honest — studying abroad sounds exciting, but it also comes with a long checklist. Mrs. D’Silva broke it all down for us in a way that actually made sense. Here’s a quick peek at what she covered:

  • Funding your studies (without selling your soul)

  • Choosing the right course and country for you

  • Admission procedures across regions (because Canada ≠ UK ≠ Australia)

  • Tests like IELTS and TOEFL – what they are, and how to ace them

  • Part-time jobs abroad – are they as glamorous as they sound?

  • Stay-back and overstay rules (yep, they’re serious)

  • Understanding tuition fees and application timelines

No sugar-coating. No Instagram filters. Just real talk about the challenges and perks of studying overseas.

Final Takeaway?

If you’re thinking about studying abroad, this session was the ultimate starter pack. And if you missed it — don’t worry. Your journey can still begin now. Start asking questions, start planning, and remember: the world is so much bigger than the four walls of a classroom. 🌏✨


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