Verna January, 2025: Padre Conceicao College of Engineering (PCCE), Verna, organized the IDEAS 3.0 – 2025 Intra College Project Competition on 24th and 25th January. This two-day event celebrated creativity and innovation with a showcase of projects blending science, innovative and cutting edge technology.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics, and Communications, Government of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, along with other dignitaries including Mr. D.S. Prashant, CEO of the Startup and IT Promotion Cell; Mr. Neville Noronha, OSD to the Minister; Dr. Mahesh B. Parappagoudar, Principal of PCCE; and Fr. Agnelo Gomes, Director of Agnel Technical Education Complex.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics, and Communications, Government of Goa Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “It is truly inspiring to witness the creativity and innovation showcased at IDEAS 2025, organized by Padre Conceicao College of Engineering. Technology is evolving and the forward-thinking approach displayed here highlights the potential of Goa’s youth to reach new levels of achievement with fresh ideas. Through our Startup and IT Policies, we are supporting students by providing financial assistance to promote their ideas. Special schemes have been introduced for girls, ensuring they have access to platforms that enable them to excel in innovation. As we work towards Viksit Bharat 2047, we are also focusing on building Digital India and Digital Goa. With strong connectivity and robust infrastructure, we are creating an environment where young minds like yours can build successful ventures right here in Goa. Our goal is to transform youth from job seekers into job givers, leveraging the opportunities in the field of technology. This can only be achieved by working together.”
Initially, 100 innovative ideas were pitched, and after several stages of shortlisting, PCCE selected 30 projects to be showcased at the event. Approximately 60 higher secondary and secondary schools have been invited, with around 48 projects being exhibited by school children from across Goa. Over the course of 30 days, students transformed their concepts into solutions, demonstrating the immense potential of Goa’s young minds. Some of the projects included Aero-Swift, GLS King, Hovercraft, and various other innovative applications of technology, reflecting the diverse creativity of these students.
In addition to the project exhibition, the event included four engaging competitions for school and higher secondary students: Science Expo, BGIM, AR/VR Cricket, and Brainiac Battle. Workshops on Design Thinking, Idea Generation, and Business Model Canvas were also held, offering participants valuable insights into entrepreneurship and business development. The two-day event served as a unique platform for students, faculty, and alumni to connect with mentors, investors, and industry professionals, gaining hands-on experience and insights into industry standards. Students were encouraged to incorporate sustainable goals into their projects, aligning their ideas with environmental issues and practical applications in daily life.