Lured by the world beyond the tiny horizons
of Goa, thanks to modern day technology – online media, social media and the
like – the youth seem to be enamoured by several issues abroad, while the more
burning issues of their homeland seem to be re taking a backseat. As one young
software engineer, Preetha Suvarna from Margao, would describe it, “Foreign
issues tend to paint themselves more glamorous than we actually see it.
Something trivial like a sex change is gathering more mileage than more
relevant issues in Goa. Unfortunately, the youth in Goa tend to relate to
overseas news better and are constantly seeking for better opportunities
abroad.”
The ‘let Goa burn’ attitude is disturbing
in the face of so many who have a chance to jump the boat and chase a foreign
dream. The lack of enthusiasm to better themselves, going with the flow, issues
snowballing with no solution or progress in sight are some of the reasons
cited. Blame it on the ‘susegad’ factor and how despite the rampant online
presence, Goa is yet to afford its youngsters an opportunity to prove their
worth.
But another argument is also holding sway.
By the very premise that the online media and social media are bringing
information from far away so also issues pertaining to our very own state – be
it the medium of instruction, widening of roads, deforestation or scams – are
making an impact. “People are definitely aware about these issues and are also
aware of the long term implications of them and how it will affect future
generations. If I were to move abroad, I would be concerned as to what is
happening in Goa,” affirms advocate Adwait Sabnis.
“I am not really clued in to the various
issues in Goa as I hardly read the newspapers. Unfortunately, there is no
progress here. My career has no scope in Goa and I have set my sights on a
career abroad in Scotland or Belgium.”
Hazel Fernandes, Fashion Designer, Nuvem
Thanks to the internet and social media,
youth today have a wider access to foreign news. They also relate better to
overseas news. In Goa, we are still coming out of our lethargic cocoon.
Personally, I try to be clued in to what is happening both in Goa and around
the world.
Karishma Alvares, Graphic Designer, Margao
There is a misconception that Goan youth
are not aware of issues in their own state. The fact that they are constantly
online, they are privy to all information and thus more informed. And yes they
are definitely concerned about issues, particularly those that are going to
affect them.
Alroy Fernandes, RJ and Marketing
Consultant, Panjim
