The Centre for Research and Innovation, in collaboration with the Goa State Higher Education Council under the Directorate of Higher Education (DHE), Government of Goa, organized the annual Goa Research Scholars Meet on 20th and 21st August 2026. Designed to foster academic growth, the initiative invited PhD scholars from higher educational institutes across Goa, alongside college faculty members pursuing part-time doctoral degrees.
Ms. Christal Ferrao, Assistant Professor in the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism and member of the Research and Development Cell at Don Bosco College, actively participated in the event. Fulfilling the Cell’s mission to promote active engagement in research initiatives, Ms. Ferrao presented her research titled, “Popular Culture as Socio-Cultural Capital for Sustainable Development of Tourism in Goa.” Demonstrating remarkable dedication to her field, she was also selected as one of six featured panellists. In this role, she shared valuable insights, practical experiences, and the unique challenges of balancing a full-time teaching career with a part-time PhD at the BITS Pilani Goa campus.
The dynamic two-day event featured keynote sessions, expert talks, a panel discussion, and diverse research presentations. Dr. Kunal Korgaonkar from BITS Pilani Goa Campus and Dr. Amit Vernekar from the Central Leather Research Institute, Chennai, delivered inspiring keynote addresses. Additionally, Dr. Mahesh Majik, Convenor of the Research Meet, offered guidance on rigorous research methodologies. Across the two days, scholars from various Goan institutions showcased their work through 20 oral presentations and 33 poster displays, creating a vibrant platform for academic exchange.
Ms. Ferrao extended her profound gratitude to Prof. Teotone Vaz, Principal of Don Bosco College, for providing her with the opportunity to participate in the initiative. She also extended her sincere appreciation to Prof Niyan Marchon, Program Director, Directorate of Higher Education for providing her with a platform to serve as one of the panellist for a discussion among research scholars and Dr. Mahesh Majik, Convenor, for organizing a platform that nurtures state-wide scholarly dialogue. Finally, she expressed her deep appreciation to Prof. Shalini Upadhyay, her PhD supervisor at BITS Pilani Goa campus for her valuable mentorship, guidance, and constant support during her doctoral journey.
