Nirmala Institute of Education organized a Campus Placement Programme jointly by the Alumni Association of NIE and the Placement Cell of NIE, in collaboration with GEMS Education, on 19 September 2026.
Alumni Connect Series | Session 01 – A Whiff of Science
The Alumni Connect Series, an initiative of the Alumni Association of Nirmala Institute of Education, Altinho, Panaji-Goa, commenced with its first session, “A Whiff of Science,” on 8th September 2026 at 11:15 a.m. The session was conducted by Mr. Karesh Phondekar, Assistant Professor in Physics at HPSM’s Ganpat Parsekar College of Education, Harmal-Goa, and an alumnus of Nirmala Institute of Education who graduated in May 2022.
The session aimed to demonstrate how science can be understood through curiosity, observation, simple concepts and hands-on experiences. It was highly interactive, with the resource person engaging participants through thought-provoking questions, demonstrations and practical activities. Mr. Phondekar illustrated how everyday phenomena can be explained through basic scientific principles. An interesting example was the discussion on why the sea appears blue, encouraging participants to view familiar surroundings from a scientific perspective.
A major highlight was the use of experiential and activity-based learning. Participants engaged in activities involving paper folding, enabling them to explore concepts through direct experimentation and observation. The session also included a Geography-related activity on the solar system, demonstrating how abstract concepts can be made meaningful and enjoyable through practical experiences.
The enthusiastic participation of the students created a vibrant learning environment. The session highlighted the value of creative, activity-based and interdisciplinary approaches to teaching science and related subjects.
The programme was particularly meaningful as it brought an alumnus back to his alma mater to share his knowledge and expertise. It reflected the objective of the Alumni Connect Series of strengthening the bond between the institution and its alumni while providing enriching learning opportunities for students and the academic community.
Overall, “A Whiff of Science” was an engaging and enriching session that successfully demonstrated that science can be simple, fascinating, experiential and closely connected to everyday life.
