St. Xavier’s College hosts Festival of Innovation

St. Xavier’s College hosted the Festival of Innovation: Goa’s Young Innovators, an event organized by the Department of Chemistry and the Institution’s Innovation Cell. The festival served as part of the birth centenary celebrations for the late Rev. Dr. Nicolau Pereira.

Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, the Goa government director for Information Technology, Electronics & Communication and the Startup & IT Promotion Cell, inaugurated the event. During his address, Shirgaonkar shared information regarding startup schemes and opportunities available to young innovators in Goa.

The festival included participants from 28 institutions across Goa. Students showcased various creations, including fire fighting robots, floor cleaning robots, road safety sensors, a smart safety device for women called Electrosetinel, a fire fighting car, and anti sleep goggles.

Ms. Janesline Fernandes, head of the chemistry department, said the festival provides an opportunity for students to showcase creativity rather than acting solely as a competition. Officiating Principal Ms. Ursula Barreto noted that the event celebrates creators whose ideas can promote entrepreneurship and job creation. College alumnus and innovator Bhikaji Gawade also spoke to students about the importance of recognizing personal strengths to become successful innovators.