Holy Spirit Institute, Goa, Honoured as Best Educational Organisation of the Year 2026

Goa, June 4, 2026: A sustained commitment to educational excellence has earned national recognition for Holy Spirit Institute, Margao. The institution, which belongs to the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman and is managed by the Diocesan Society of Education, was honoured at the Brandscouncil Ratings International Awards for Educational Excellence 2026 held on May 23 at the Constitution Club of India, New Delhi.

The institution received the prestigious 'Best Educational Organisation of the Year 2026' award for its successful implementation and integration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its educational and co-curricular activities.

Adding to the achievement, the school’s Headmistress, Mrs. Esmeralda Mendes e Fernandes, was recognised among the 'Top 100 Impactful Education Leaders 2026' for her innovative educational practices and collaborative leadership.

The recognition comes close on the heels of the institution receiving the 'Kristu Jayanti Excellence Award 2024', further affirming its commitment to quality education and holistic development.

Accepting the awards, Mrs Fernandes attributed the honour to God, the DSE Management and, in a special way, to Fr. Amandio Valadares, Manager of the institution, whose constant encouragement and vision, she said, have inspired the institution’s growth.

She also expressed gratitude to the staff, alumni, benefactors, PTA members, students and her family, especially her mother, whom she described as her pillar of strength. She further acknowledged the support of her father, husband, siblings and children.

Reflecting on the recognition, Mrs. Fernandes said, “I am not seeking an award for our institution and myself, but a spotlight on the collective work of Goa’s aided schools that serve with limited resources but unlimited commitment. If this recognition inspires one more educator to innovate and believe, then the purpose is served.”

The management, staff, students, parents and well-wishers of Holy Spirit Institute congratulated Mrs. Fernandes on the achievement, acknowledging her dedicated leadership and tireless efforts in working towards the dream of Fr. Amandio Valadares to make Holy Spirit Institute, Margao, one of the finest educational institutions in the world.

The awards mark a proud achievement not only for Holy Spirit Institute but also for Catholic and aided educational institutions in Goa, highlighting their contribution to nation-building through value-based and quality education.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD