Margao — The recent announcement of the 350 students selected by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for its prestigious YUVIKA 2025 program has sparked serious concerns regarding the representation of Goan students in national-level academic initiatives. Of the 350 selected across India, only 10 students are from Goa and notably, only 4 of those have distinctly Goan names. This statistic demands urgent scrutiny and accountability, stated Madganvcho Awaaz & Youth Leader Prabhav Naik.
I congratulate all the young students who are selected for this years coaching camp and wish them a bright career ahead, said Prabhav Naik.
The YUVIKA program is designed to nurture scientific curiosity among young students and is seen as a gateway to future opportunities in science and technology. The underrepresentation of Goans in such a vital initiative raises questions about whether our students are being adequately supported, coached, and informed about such opportunities. It also reflects poorly on the outreach and inclusivity efforts of the program within smaller states like Goa, said Prabhav Naik.
What is the Government of Goa doing to identify, mentor, and prepare our young students for these nationally competitive platforms? Over the past few years, much has been promised in terms of coaching programs and academic support systems for Goan students aiming for careers in science, technology, and research. Yet, the results, as seen in the YUVIKA 2025 selection, suggest these promises have not translated into meaningful outcomes, Prabhav Naik said.
It is imperative that the Directorate of Education and other relevant authorities explain what mechanisms are in place to ensure equitable representation of Goan students in such national platforms. Are rural and underprivileged students being reached? Are government schools being included in awareness campaigns and training modules? These are questions that can no longer be ignored or delayed, stated Prabhav Naik.
On behalf of Madganvcho Awaaz and concerned citizens, we call upon the Government of Goa to review the current support systems for student development, publish detailed data on student outreach, and take immediate steps to empower local students through better awareness, coaching, and mentorship programs, Prabhav Naik said.
