St Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona, proudly launched its newly upgraded smart classrooms under the Happy School Project, with the heartfelt support of one of its most distinguished alumni, Dr Ashwin Fernandes, Founder and President of PACT Foundation. This collaboration marks a meaningful moment of return and contribution, as the school that once nurtured Dr Fernandes’ early dreams now benefits from his global journey and commitment to education.
As part of the upgrade, three smart classrooms were inaugurated—each equipped with state-of-the-art smart boards, new benches, and fresh painting and renovation work. The transformation reflects PACT Foundation’s commitment to providing vibrant, modern, and dignified learning environments for students in Goa.
The event was graced by the presence of Father Jerard Sahayaraj, Manager of the School; Madam Angelica Fernandes, Principal; and Mr Amarnath Panjikar, Senior Teacher; along with the entire faculty, staff, and student body. One of the highlights of the celebration was a soul-stirring musical performance specially composed by Mr Ivan D’Cruz, Physics Lab Assistant, and presented by a group of students.
Dr Fernandes addressed the gathering with an emotional and inspiring speech, reflecting on his personal journey from a curious village schoolboy to a global education leader.
“Standing here at St Thomas Higher Secondary School—my school—is not just a return to a campus, but a return to the roots that shaped me,” he shared. He also added “To the students here today, I want to say: never forget where you come from—but never let it limit where you are going. I was one of you. Dream, Inspire and Aspire.”
The upgrades at St Thomas are part of PACT Foundation’s broader Happy School Project, launched in 2023. Since its inception, the initiative has impacted 17 schools across Goa, focusing on digital learning tools, classroom revitalisation and sanitation upgrades.
Father Jerard Sahayaraj, Manager of the School, shared his happiness at seeing the transformation, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the upgrades. He spoke about the deeper meaning of giving, noting, “When we give with love, we receive even greater blessings in return. Today’s gift to the school is not just smart boards and new benches—it is the spirit of hope, pride, and possibility that fills every classroom.”
With deep roots planted in Aldona, the Happy School Project now aims to give wings to hundreds of children, nurturing hope and potential where it all began. PACT (People for Action, Change and Transformation) Foundation is a non-profit organisation committed to empowering communities through access to quality education and social support. Through its flagship initiatives like the Happy School Project, PACT works to uplift underserved schools and foster environments where children can thrive.