As part of its ongoing Outreach and Extension initiatives, St. Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim, organised an engaging outreach programme at its adopted village, Dabolim Ward No. 2. The programme was coordinated by the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) Cell, Nature’s Club, Department of Botany and Department of Library, with the objective of strengthening community engagement and promoting awareness of traditional knowledge, cultural practices and sustainable living. A key focus of the programme was to familiarise the community with the 21 sacred plants or patri traditionally associated with Ganesh Chaturthi, along with the cultural,
botanical and traditional knowledge connected to them.

The programme was conducted on 11 th September 2026 , commenced at 3:30 p.m. with an engaging hands-on session conducted by S.Y. B.Sc. student Kshitija Gawas, who demonstrated and taught the residents and participants how to make colourful flowers using pipe cleaners. The creative activity received an enthusiastic response and provided the participants with an opportunity to learn a simple and enjoyable craft.

This was followed by a Traditional Ganesh Chaturthi Dish-Making Competition, which celebrated the rich culinary traditions associated with the festival. The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation from the residents. Meena Bandodkar secured the first prize, while Sneha Salkar won the second prize and Reshma Bandodkar was awarded the third prize. A major highlight of the programme was the awareness activity on “Matoli Magic – Sacred Flora of Ganesh Chaturthi”, conducted by the B.Sc. students of the College. Through an innovative and interactive display, the students showcased the 21 patri (plants) traditionally associated with
the Matoli during Ganesh Chaturthi.

The students explained the botanical names, local significance and traditional and mythological stories associated with each of the plants. The activity helped the residents understand that the Matoli is much more than a festive decoration. It represents the deep relationship between Goan traditions, biodiversity and the natural environment.

The activity also highlighted the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and appreciating the diverse plant wealth associated with local festivals. By connecting botanical knowledge with familiar cultural practices, the students presented the subject in an accessible and interesting manner.

The residents warmly appreciated the innovative approach adopted by the students and shared positive feedback about the programme. The interactive nature of the activities enabled the community members not only to participate but also to learn new information about their own cultural traditions and the plants associated with Ganesh Chaturthi.

The outreach programme reflected the College’s commitment to taking learning beyond the classroom and creating meaningful engagement with the community. Such initiatives provide students with an opportunity to share their academic knowledge while learning from the experiences, traditions and practices of the local community.

The programme concluded on a positive note, with the activities fostering community participation, cultural awareness, knowledge sharing and stronger bonds between the College and its adopted village. St. Joseph Vaz College continues to undertake such programmes regularly as part of its efforts to build a meaningful and sustained relationship with the community of Dabolim Ward No. 2.