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A Voice That Matters – Featured Essay from the “Share Your Story” Contest

In April 2025, we invited students, teachers, and parents across Goa to share their experiences with the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 . While many showed interest, only one participant followed through — and that single voice deserves to be heard. We are proud to publish this thoughtful and honest essay by our featured contributor, who has chosen to remain anonymous. Her story speaks to the lived realities behind the headlines and policies — and reflects the spirit of this platform: to listen, to learn, and to advocate for better education in Goa.
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Deadline Extended! Submit Your Essay by June 12, 2025

We’ve got good news for all those who registered for the “Share Your Story: Essay Writing Contest” — and for those who were still thinking about participating!   The last date to submit your entry has been extended to June 12, 2025. We understand that sometimes life gets busy — school, exams, work, and everything else. So we’re giving you a little more time to reflect, write, and share your experiences. What’s the Contest About? We want to hear from you, about how you’ve experienced the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) in Goa. Your essay can highlight: Positive changes you’ve noticed Challenges or concerns Hopes and expectations for the future Every voice matters. Every story counts. Submission Details (Updated) Theme: My Experience with NEP Implementation in Goa: Challenges and Opportunities Word Limit: 250 to 1000 words Languages Accepted: English, Konkani (Devanagari or Romi), or Hindi Formats: Typed (Word or PDF) OR scanned handwritten essays Send to: ...

Last Call! Submit Your Essay by Tomorrow – June 7, 2025

If you've been meaning to share your story, now’s the time! The "Share Your Story: Essay Writing Contest" is about to close — and we don’t want you to miss out. The final day to submit your entry is tomorrow: June 7, 2025. We’ve received some wonderful entries so far — heartfelt stories, sharp reflections, and inspiring experiences around the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) in Goa . But we know there are more voices out there waiting to be heard — maybe yours? A Quick Review: Theme: My Experience with NEP Implementation in Goa: Challenges and Opportunities Word Limit: 250 to 1000 words Languages: English, Konkani (Devanagari or Romi), or Hindi How to Submit: Email your essay to goaeducationmatters@gmail.com Subject Line: "Contest Submission" Format: Typed (Word/PDF) or scanned handwritten version What’s in it for you? Cash prizes for top 3 winners Consolation and special mention prizes Digital certificates for all participants A ...

Goa’s April School Shift: When Policy Ignores the People

This summer, the Goa government pushed through a drastic change to our children’s academic calendar—starting the school year in the peak heat of April instead of the usual June. Parents, teachers, and even school heads across the state raised the alarm: health risks, logistical chaos, and inadequate school infrastructure would make this move disastrous. They were right. And yet, despite formal objections, widespread public campaigns, and even a pending High Court petition, the Directorate of Education went ahead. Why? - Because they could. Not because they should. A Decision Without Dialogue The shift was proposed just five days before it was to be implemented, on a weekend no less, giving families no real chance to respond. And when they did—thousands of them—it was dismissed as “having no merit.” This is despite strong objections pointing out: No legal or policy mandate (NEP 2020 or NCFSE 2023) requires Goa to adopt an April start. Goa already meets or exceeds the required number of...

Share Your Story: Essay Writing Contest

Calling ALL students in Goa! Have you been affected by the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) in your school? Do you have a story to share about the challenges you've faced or the opportunities you've discovered? We're excited to announce an essay writing contest where you can share your experiences and thoughts about NEP implementation in Goa. This is your chance to voice your opinions and help shape the future of education in our state. Eligibility The contest is open to students studying in schools in Goa (especially Class 9th and above) who have experienced the implementation of NEP in their educational journey.  Contest Timeline Last Date to Register: May 7, 2025 Last Date for Submission: June 7, 2025 Result Announcement: July 7, 2025 How to Participate Register for the contest by May 7, 2025, by filling up this Google form . (We will send a copy of the Rules, Guidelines and further details to all who have registered) Write an essay (250-1000 wor...

New School Year in Scorching April? We Want to Hear From You!

This year, for the very first time, schools across Goa opened their doors in April—yes, right in the middle of our sizzling summer heat! ☀️🔥 While this shift aligns with broader educational reforms and calendar synchronization, it has brought with it a whole bunch of questions, adjustments, and let’s be honest… a lot of sweat. Take The Survey - Click Here If you're a student, parent, teacher, or school staff member, you’ve probably got a thing or two to say about this big change. Has the heat been too much to handle? Are kids coping okay? Have routines at home or school shifted? We want to hear it all—the good, the tough, and the surprisingly manageable. 🎯 Why Your Feedback Matters This is a historic shift for Goa’s education system, and your voice can shape how future April starts are handled. Your responses will help: Improve school infrastructure and safety in hot weather Guide academic planning and scheduling Support students' health and well-being Influence future govern...

Assessing the Impact of Goa's Changes on Achieving NEP 2020 Goals: A Critical Examination of Stakeholder Inclusion

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a comprehensive framework aimed at transforming India's education system to meet the needs of the 21st century. In Goa, the government has implemented changes to the education system, including a new academic year schedule and amendments to the Goa School Education Rules, 1986. However, the impact of these changes on achieving NEP 2020 goals is a subject of debate. Assessing the Impact on NEP 2020 Goals The changes implemented in Goa may not necessarily align with the principles, goals, and objectives of NEP 2020. In fact, the rushed implementation of these changes has sparked protests from parents and students, who are concerned about the potential negative impact on the education system in Goa. Some of the concerns include: Lack of Infrastructure: The new academic year schedule may put additional pressure on schools that are already struggling with inadequate infrastructure. Disruption of Family Routines: The changed schedule may disr...