Kshitij 2026 – Showcasing Innovation and Young Talent

Don Bosco College of Engineering, Fatorda, hosted Kshitij 2026, its annual state-level science project exhibition, bringing together participants from educational institutions across Goa. This year’s 9th edition featured 100+ school-level projects and 40+ academic projects, showcasing a diverse range of research, creativity, and innovation. The event witnessed an enthusiastic participation of over 400 students and teachers, who explored the exhibits and interacted with the budding innovators, and has attracted more than 600+ visitors including teachers, parents, industry professions and member of the general public.

Kshitij 2026 was inaugurated by Dr. Abhijit Chatterjee, Managing Director & CEO of Adage Automation, who appreciated the promotion of “innovation culture” at DBCE and told the students that this is the best age to be an engineer. The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Rev. Fr. Clive Telles, Provincial, Province of Panjim-Konkan, who said that GenZ is a generation born and brought up with innovation, and it is this innovation that will change the world, Rev. Fr. Ralin De Souza, Rector, Don Bosco Fatorda spoke about the two parts of invention, first the passion to understand a problem and second the intelligence to find a solution. Other dignitaries present included Rev. Fr. Leo Pereira, Administrator, DBCE Dr. Neena Panandikar, Principal, DBCE; Ms.Oindrilla Chatterjee, AI/Digitization Lead of Adage Automation, Dr. Ajit Salunke; and Prof. Satyesh Kakodkar, Conveners of Kshitij 2026.

The standout event at Kshitij 2026 was the signing of the MOU between Adage Automation and Don Bosco College of Engineering. The partnership aims to strengthen industry- academia relations. With its growing reach and impact, Kshitij continues to serve as an important platform for creativity, research, and scientific collaboration in Goa.

Day 2

On the second day of Kshitij 2026, a one-day workshop titled “Emerging Technological Trends for Sustainable Development” was successfully organized for principals and senior teachers. The workshop saw the participation of 43 delegates. The inaugural function of the workshop was graced by Dr. Pradip V. Sarmokadam, Member Secretary, Goa State Biodiversity Board, as the Chief Guest.

The workshop featured the following sessions:

Session 1: Role of AI & ML in sustainable development – conducted by Mr. Damodar Reddy Edla, Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Goa.

Session 2: Smart Technologies for Sustainable Development – conducted by Mr. Ajit Salunke, Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Don Bosco College of Engineering, Goa.

Session 3: Project Ideas for Sustainable Development: Opportunities, Innovations and Implementation– presented by Mr. Carmelito Andrade, Vocational Instructor for Drone Trades, Government ITI, Carcora

The workshop was coordinated by Ms. Mohini Naik, Ms. Shruti Desai, Mr. Sharad Shanbag and Mr. Yeshudas Muttu.

The valedictory function of Kshitij 2026 marked the successful culmination of an enriching and impactful event. The ceremony was graced by Dr. Niyan Marchon, Professor and Program Director, Goa State Higher Education Council, Directorate of Higher Education, Government of Goa, as the Chief Guest who urged the students to stay curious, keep building and never stop asking questions of “why not?”. He also commended the efforts by the teachers of all the various schools and higher secondary institutions and encouraged them to keep supporting the students. Other dignitaries present were Dr. Neena Panandikar, Principal, DBCE; Dr. Ajit Salunke; and Prof. Satyesh Kakodkar, Convenors of Kshitij 2026.

The highlight of the valedictory ceremony was the prize distribution, where a wide range of innovative and impactful projects received recognition. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and pride, particularly as school students expressed immense excitement and joy upon receiving awards for their efforts and achievements.