Having been founded on July 2, 1994, Vidya Vikas Academy has
come a long way, now known as one of the sought after institutions in the state
of Goa. Affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New
Delhi, and recognised by the Directorate of Education, Government of Goa, the
school’s aim is to impart education rather than mere knowledge. The current
incumbent is Alan Rodrigues, the Principal of the institution who is considered
by many to be the driving force that has led to the Academy’s rapid growth and
development.
When asked what sets Vidya Vikas apart from its
contemporaries, he says, “Our vision is to provide every opportunity and
experience for our students to achieve excellence in keeping with their
potential. The commitment and dedication of a qualified and experienced staff
and the guidance of the management make a strong impact. The school is a home
to our children. There are no pressures and we give them their space and pace
to grow.”
This growth is evident from Rodrigues’ undertakings over the
years. He has been considered the man behind the organisation of the school’s
events such as VIBGYOR 1998, 1999 and 2000. The event was a cultural festival
organised with the aim of bringing together the staff and students of schools
in and around Margao for recreational purposes. He has also been credited with
being instrumental when it came to the UK School partnership and student and
staff exchange programmes through the British Council, Mumbai, as well as the
International School Accreditation Awards for 2009 – 2012 and 2013 – 2016.
Speaking on the institution’s plans for future growth and
projected improvements for the institution, Alan says, “A Centre for Excellence
will provide opportunities for diverse interests, such as photography, speech,
drama, music, pottery and art. There is a need to upgrade the Senior Secondary
Section for Humanities and Commerce as well as provide better services and
facilities for our challenged children in the Resource Room. We will need to
have a greater focus on our outreach programme for the less privileged orphans
and the aged through community service programmes.”
Rodrigues concludes, pointing out that perhaps just one
academy might be one academy too little, stating, “Our management has also
thought of replicating Vidya Vikas Academy in North Goa.”
