Cultivating Future Leaders
April 2026
Our College vision is “to form an academic community dedicated to the holistic education of future leaders who will demonstrate innovation in their professional competencies, integration in their personal lives and inclusion in their social contribution”. This vision statement has been curated on the basis of widespread alumni feedback—besides suggestions from faculty and students.
A key phrase of this statement is the “holistic education of future leaders”. We would like the outcome of our educational enterprise to be the creation of a class or critical mass of leaders who will serve the nation and the larger world in various roles and capacities. Our College has been blessed to have enabled many of our alumni who have proven to be illustrious and well-reputed leaders in various fields. Besides this, we are also fortunate to have exceptionally good students from all over India—and a few foreign students as well. However, the challenge for the future is to sustain this momentum, in the context of the creation of global conditions whereby the domain of leadership has been severely compromised.
We try to do our best in the College in terms of training for professional competence and innovation. However, the challenge—especially today—is to cultivate values of personal integrity and social inclusion, while our students are being confronted with vivid examples of both of these values being steadily corroded on a daily basis. The world across seems to have inadvertently chosen leaders who operate from stout partisan interests—national, ethnic, religious—and are thereby not sufficiently earnest about integral and inclusive development. The current war in West Asia is a sad commentary on, and a classic example of the lack of good political leadership the world over—by the main protagonists in this tragic drama, and by those who choose to be bystanders, sacrificing principle for pragmatism. Educating our students by way of professional competence is simply not good enough, unless this is accompanied with an equitable dose of personal integrity and social compassion. The sphere of leadership is filled with shrewd business and civic actors. The challenge is to balance professional and political acumen with wisdom, integrity and empathy. If this does not happen, we will have failed to educate those entrusted to our care—and in doing so, failed the larger national and human community.
Dear Xavierites,
Cultivating Future Leaders while Honouring Our Legacy and Embracing New Beginnings reflects where we stand as a community today. At St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, each year is shaped by those who came before us and renewed by those who carry the journey forward.
This year, we marked an important milestone with the Commencement Ceremony of the Class of 2026, including the first undergraduate cohort of graduating students under the NEP 2020 framework. It represents not just a new academic structure, but a deeper commitment to an education that is flexible, interdisciplinary, and rooted in purpose.
What continues to define Xavier’s is its community. Across generations and geographies, Xavierites remain connected through shared values and a strong sense of belonging. Your continued engagement—through mentorship, collaboration, and support—ensures that the College remains a living network of people and purpose.
On a personal note, this first year as Principal has been both humbling and enriching. The Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship offered an opportunity to engage with global academic communities, reinforcing the importance of openness and dialogue in shaping the future of higher education.
As we look ahead, we do so with confidence—grounded in our legacy and guided by a shared commitment to growth, inclusion, and excellence.
Warm regards,
Prof. Dr. Karuna Gokarn
Commencement Ceremony 2025-26
- Manasi Kanuga (Ph.D.) , Convenor, Commencement Ceremony
The Commencement Ceremony for academic year 2025-26 was conducted on 27th and 28th March, 2026. There were a number of firsts this year. This was the first Commencement Ceremony marking the first batch of students about to graduate under the NEP 2020 framework. Another first this year was that the Commencement Ceremony was held in the historic first quadrangle of the college in an open-air setting. On 27th March, the ceremony was conducted for the post-graduate and undergraduate students of Science and
Commerce programmes (MSc, BSc, BCom, BAF and BCom in Management Studies), while on 28th March, the ceremony was conducted for the post-graduate and undergraduate students of the Arts programme (MA and BA). Approximately, 900 students attended over the two days, accompanied by approximately 1400 parents, guardians and friends.
On each day, the academic procession was led by the students of the National Cadet Corps. The academic procession comprising members of the Academic Board Rector, Dr. Fr. Keith D’Souza, Principal Prof. Dr. Karuna Gokarn, Vice Principal (Academics), Dr. Bobby Mathew, Vice-Principal (Science), Mr. Marazban Kotwal, Vice Principal (Arts) Ms. Alpana Palkhiwale, Vice-Principal (Commerce) Dr. Sanjay Parab, Director for Self-Financed courses Fr. Arul John Bosco and the Controller of Examinations Ms. Saima Khan, escorted the Chief Guest of the day to the dais. The academic procession was followed by the faculty of each department led by a student representative holding a placard announcing the department’s names.
The formal ceremony began with the recital of the college anthem. The chief guests, both illustrious alumni of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, were Dr. Shubha Tole for 27th March and Mr. Blaise Fernandes for 28th March. Dr. Shubha Tole is an alumna of the Department of Life Science and Biochemistry, and completed her Bachelor of Science, in 1987. Mr. Blaise Fernandes graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Economics and Sociology) in 1986. Mr. Fernandes is also an alumnus of the Xavier’s Institute of Communication (PGDP, 1986). Dr. Shubha Tole was introduced by Mr. Marazban Kotwal and the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Sanjay Parab, while Mr. Blaise Fernandes was introduced by Ms. Alpana Palkhiwale and the vote of thanks that day was delivered by Dr. Bobby Mathew. The chief guests delivered an inspiring address, motivating students to embrace challenges, pursue their passions, and strive for excellence in their future endeavours. The commencement ceremony concluded with the unanimous reading of the college pledge followed by the singing of the National Anthem. This monumental endeavour would not be possible without the support and hard work of the college management, treasurer’s office, exam centre, faculty, administrative and non-teaching staff and student volunteers (SY and FY). Most importantly, this was a successful event because of the enthusiasm of the first graduating batch under the NEP 2020 framework. The commencement ceremony marked the transition for graduates from academic life to future responsibilities.
Janfest'26 - A Legacy Celebrating Indian Classical Music
Janfest is the flagship classical music concert hosted by the Indian Music Group (IMG) of St. Xavier’s College Mumbai, held every year. This year it was held on 25th and 26th January 2026, marking a historic 51st year of this beloved tradition.
The concert spans a rich variety of Indian classical music -- both Hindustani and Carnatic -- performed on instruments including the sarod, flute, and vocals, offering audiences a glimpse of India’s extraordinary musical heritage.
Preparations begin nearly three months in advance, ensuring the event comes together seamlessly for an audience of nearly 800-900 attendees per session. This year the artiste lineup featured some of the finest names in indian classical music. The 25th January, 2026 concert opened with Abhijit Pohankar and Band, followed by a soulful recital by Mohammed Amaan, and concluded with a rare performance of three generations on the sarod by Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, his sons and grandsons. The morning of 26th January was graced by legendary Begum Parveen Sultana, while the evening session began with a child prodigy, Mast. Mukundraj Kadam on the Pakhawaj, followed by Pt. Rupak Kulkarni, the celebrated Trichur Brothers, and Padma Vibhushan Dr. N. Rajam. Over 150 student volunteers and key staff brought the event to life, honouring a timeless tradition and nurturing the next generation of classical artistes.
JHEASA - Jesuit Higher Education Association of South Asia
St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai hosted the JHEASA Annual Conference at Vinayalaya, Andheri, bringing together delegates from Jesuit Higher Education institutions across South Asia from 26th to 28th January, 2026.
The conference opened with an address by alumnus Mr. Blaise Fernandes, President of the Indian Music Industry and alumnus of St. Xavier's College, Mumbai. This was followed by reflections from Fr. Stanislaus D’Souza, President, Jesuit Conference of South Asia; Fr. Joseph Christie, Secretary for Higher Education of the Society of Jesus, along with Jesuit leaders, principals, and educators across the region.
The gathering also marked the conferment of the JHEASA Magis Award 2026 to former Principal of St Xavier's College, Mumbai,
Fr. Frazer Mascarenhas, SJ.
Rooted in the spirit of Magis, the conference encouraged thoughtful dialogue and collaborative engagement, contributing meaningfully to shaping the future of Jesuit higher education in South Asia.
Respecting the Other : DIRS Flagship Event
This year, the Department of Inter-Religious Studies (DIRS) at St. Xavier's College, Mumbai, centred its work around the theme of healing, fostering dialogue, reflection, and compassion across faiths and communities. The Department’s flagship event, Respecting the Other, was conducted as a two-day interfaith exploration on 27th and 28th February, 2026.
On Day 1, participants visited four culturally significant spaces - ISKCON Chowpatty, the F.D. Alpaiwalla Museum, the Knesseth Eliyahoo Synagogue, and St. Thomas Cathedral -- offering immersive exposure to diverse religious traditions and practices. Day 2 featured an inspiring speaker lineup, including Keynote Speaker Mr. Khojeste Mistree and an online valedictory address by Fr. Paul Rolfy Pinto SJ, Professor, Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome.
Goonj Trophy 2026 - An Inclusive Cricket Match
St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai hosted the Goonj Trophy 2026, an event centred on inclusivity and equal participation in sports. The highlight was a cricket match for the visually challenged, bringing together teams comprising Xavier’s students, alumni, members of the Xavier’s Resource Centre for the Visually Challenged (XRCVC) and students from Wilson College, Mumbai. The match highlighted the importance of creating accessible sporting opportunities while collaborating across communities.
Organised on 3rd February, 2026 the event was led by XRCVC in collaboration with the Students Inclusion Cell. The initiative aimed to promote awareness around inclusivity in everyday spaces, especially in educational institutions. With support from partners such as Tata Investment Corporation Limited, alongside faculty, students, and volunteers, the campus transformed into a vibrant space of participation and engagement.
The Goonj Trophy reflects the College’s commitment to building an inclusive environment where individuals of all abilities can take part and thrive. By making sports inclusive, the event demonstrated how institutions can contribute to a more equitable society, one initiative at a time.
Republic Day Celebration
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On 26th January, 2026, St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai celebrated Republic Day organised jointly by the Student Council and the National Cadet Corps (NCC).
The spirit of the nation was celebrated in a very special way, by serenading the audience with the sweet voice of Begum Parveen Sultana, followed by a highly patriotic celebration of India’s Constitution. The celebration featured a march-past by NCC cadets, flag hoisting, and the singing of the national anthem.
On this occasion, some cadets received badges and awards for their accomplishments from the Principal, Dr. Karuna Gokarn, and the Chief Guest, Begum Parveen Sultana.
Parent Teacher Meeting 2026
St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, hosted its Parent Teacher Meeting on 17th January, 2026. It is a dedicated space for open, one-on-one dialogue between professors and parents, focusing on the academic growth and overall well-being of every student.
The meeting serves as a meaningful bridge between home and college. It allows teachers to discuss each student’s semester performance, classroom participation, and project contributions, while also offering constructive guidance on areas of improvement.
The interaction also provided an opportunity to gather feedback from parents on the implementation of the NEP framework and its impact on student learning. In addition, the College engaged with parents to seek their support in strengthening placement and internship opportunities, recognising the valuable role of the parent community in building professional networks for students.
At its heart, the Parent Teacher Meeting is a forum for open communication that defines the Xavier's experience, ensuring that every student's journey through college is well-supported.
Media Cell Team
Every piece you see on our socials is curated with a lot of heart.
Alumni Dinner 2024 is where the story begins when a student team for the first time helped promote and document the evening. As time went on, a larger and more structured team began to take shape. Students stepped into defined roles across writing, curation, public relations, contributing their skills in a more organised manner. Together, this expanded team played a key role in building and refining the Xavier's branding programme, actively shaping how the College is presented to the world.
Behind every story you see, this team works relentlessly. These are the faces behind every moment documented and every piece of information brought to you.
This is the set of storytellers that got to share the Xavier's memories of 2025-2026. The calm in the chaos and the guides: Head Co-ordinators: Sohinee Sanyal & Ravya Rai Chief storytellers: Team Content: Aditi Panicker (Head) , Mogh Guralwar & Nila Mukund Varma (Sub-heads) Nothing gets past her... Team News Reporting & Gathering: Dhwani Gaikwad (Head) Always on quest for the perfect frame: Team Filming & Documentation: Smita Patil and Saanvi Pandey (Heads) Always online: Team Social media: Kalyani Borole & Odelle Almeida (Heads) Every pixel pops, thanks to: Team Design: Tanisha Savla & Sharon D'Souza (Heads), Hridhika Sabhlok (Sub-head) Our forever compass, powered by patience: Faculty in charge: Ms. Belinda Jones. The team is also supported by dedicated volunteers, all working together to share the institution's voice, and craft its digital legacy.
Dallas Alumni Gathering
Bonds built at Xavier’s do not break, and the tradition of alumni from the Dallas–Fort Worth area of Texas stands as proof. Reunions offer an opportunity to reconnect with the journey and the people who have shaped one’s life. Continuing their annual tradition, alumni gathered in March for their reunion, joined by Xavierites from across Texas, including Oklahoma City, Houston, and Austin.
Spanning batches from 1958 to 2008, the gathering brought together alumni for an evening of nostalgia, camaraderie, and shared memories. The event was filled with games, conversations, and a renewed sense of the Xavierite spirit.
Though Xavier’s has led them on different paths, the shared memories continue to draw them back. The evening also reflected a collective commitment to giving back to the institution that shaped them. Old stories were revisited, new ones were created, and the gathering stood as a reminder that “Once a Xavierite, always a Xavierite” continues to hold true! The event, held on 7th March, 2026, was co-ordinated by the planning team comprising Florence Lubinus, Alpa Arora, Daniella D’Souza, and Cynthia James.
Alumni Spotlight - Prof. Richa Rikhy
Prof. Richa Rikhy, an alumna of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and currently a faculty member in the Department of Biology at IISER Pune, has been awarded the Anne McLaren Award for Outstanding Women in Developmental Biology by the International Society of Differentiation.
The award recognises her research on plasma membrane and mitochondrial dynamics in embryogenesis and stem cell differentiation, contributing to a deeper understanding of developmental biology. She also serves as a faculty member and Senior Fellow of the DBT-Wellcome Trust India Alliance.
Prof. Rikhy completed her Ph.D. in Molecular Biology at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in 2003. She went on to undertake postdoctoral research at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, USA, before joining IISER Pune in 2010.
Named after geneticist Anne McLaren, the award honours significant contributions to the field of developmental biology. It was presented by Prof. Sally Dunwoodie, President of the Society of Differentiation, at InSDB-ISD 2025 held at IISER Berhampur, where Prof. Rikhy also delivered her Anne McLaren award lecture. Her achievement reflects the growing impact of Indian researchers in advancing the biological sciences.
Made of Xavier's - Interview with Dr. Sam Taraporevala
We bring to you an interview series featuring our distinguished alumni, individuals whose journeys began at Xavier's and who continue to reflect its values in their work and lives. Join us as we hear from Xavierites who carry and share the spirit of St. Xavier’s College across the globe.
At one of our alumni dinners, we had the privilege of interacting with Dr. Sam Taraporevala (Batch of 1981), an alumnus and long-serving faculty member, who founded the Xavier’s Resource Centre for the Visually Challenged (XRCVC) and currently serves as its Executive Director at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Watch the full interview here.
Fulbright-Nehru International Education Administrators Scholarship 2026 awarded to Prof. Dr. Karuna Gokarn, Principal
The Fulbright-Nehru International Education Administrators Seminar 2026 was a 15-day programme (April 11–25, 2026) involving academic and institutional engagements across eight leading U.S. universities. It commenced at the University of Notre Dame, where participants explored the structure and emerging trends in U.S. higher education, including AI integration, COIL, immersive technologies and strategies for internationalisation. Sessions also examined student mobility, global partnerships and administrative frameworks.
The programme provided insights into the U.S. research ecosystem, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the role of libraries and digital infrastructure. At Purdue University, the focus was on industry-linked education, community engagement and India–U.S. academic collaboration. Visits to Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania highlighted community engagement, research commercialization, entrepreneurship and University–industry linkages. Drexel University showcased cooperative education models, while the University of Delaware emphasised public–private partnerships.
In Washington D.C., engagements focused on federal–academic partnerships and policy linkages. Interactions at Johns Hopkins University and American University covered research collaboration, public health and experiential learning. Visits to the U.S. Department of Energy and the Embassy of India highlighted policy-level engagement, funding ecosystems and Indo–U.S. collaboration. The programme concluded with capstone presentations on institutional applications. Key Outcomes 1. Enhanced understanding of U.S. higher education systems and governance 2. Exposure to innovative teaching-learning practices and digital integration 3. Insights into internationalization, student mobility and global partnerships 4. Strengthened perspectives on research collaboration, entrepreneurship and industry engagement 5. Development of institutional strategies through capstone projects. Overall, the seminar provided a rich platform for academic exchange, capacity building and strengthening Indo–U.S. higher education collaboration. Prof. Dr. Karuna Gokarn Principal
Retiring Staff: Dr. Pushpa Sinkar
Educator, Mentor, and Pillar of the Department of Zoology
- Mr Conrad Cabral, HoD
Dr. Pushpa Sinkar’s journey with St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai began in 1981, when she first
walked into the Junior College as a student. She went on to complete her graduation in the
Department of Zoology, followed by her Master’s degree, and soon returned to her alma
mater as a Professor in the same department.
After 37 years of dedicated service, she retired on 31st March, 2026 as the Head of the
Department of Zoology, leaving behind a legacy of commitment, innovation, and
compassion.
Throughout her tenure, Dr. Sinkar served the college in multiple capacities. She was the
coordinator of the Forensic Science programme from 2004 until her retirement, nurturing
its growth and ensuring its smooth functioning. She played a pivotal role in the Teaching,
Assessment, and Quality (TAQ) Committee, serving as Convener and overseeing its
transition from manual to computerised systems of evaluation.
Dr. Sinkar will be remembered by her students as a motherly, kind-hearted mentor who intuitively understood their needs even before they were voiced. Her lively teaching style and deep subject knowledge inspired generations of learners. A firm believer in experiential learning, she was a constant presence on departmental field trips, actively participating and ensuring that students gained practical insights beyond the classroom. The affection her students hold for her was evident during her farewell, where alumni from her very first batch of 1989–90 returned to honour her. Dr. Sinkar entered St. Xavier’s as a young student and now retires as a grandmother, cherished by her family and her extended academic family alike. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for her years of service and wish her a retirement filled with peace, and the love of her dear ones. May this new chapter be as enriching and fulfilling as the remarkable career she leaves behind.
Retiring Staff: Dr. Saju V. George
A Chapter that Shaped many in the Department of Statistics
- Dr. Annapurna S, HoD
Dr. Saju V. George retired from the Department of Statistics on 31st March, 2026 after 31 years of dedicated service at St. Xavier’s College. It is never easy to bid farewell to a colleague and friend who has been an integral part of the Department’s journey for over three decades. Through his steady presence and commitment, Dr. George has helped shape the academic character of the Department as it stands today.
Known for his approachability and deep knowledge of Statistics, he combined academic rigour with warmth in the classroom. Generations of students admired his clarity of thought and his ability to simplify complex concepts. His lectures encouraged confidence and intellectual curiosity.
He also provided balanced leadership, guiding faculty and students with consistency and care during his tenure as Head of the Department from 2021 to 2025, fostering a collaborative and supportive academic environment.
Beyond academics, Dr. George contributed actively to the College through his involvement in several committees, including Custodian, Cultural Activities, Discipline, Examination, Entrepreneurial Cell, the Magazine, Malhar, Scholarship, Time-Table, and TAQ & Course Feedback. He was also recognised by the University of Mumbai for postgraduate teaching. The Department expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Saju V. George for his immense contributions and dedication. Though his retirement marks the close of a distinguished chapter, his influence will continue to resonate in the Department and in the many lives he has shaped. We wish him a fulfilling and joyful life ahead.
Admission Open for Academic Year 2026-27
The admission cycle for the academic year 2026-2027 has officially commenced.
Students are being chosen at Junior College, Undergraduate, Postgraduate levels.
Xavier's Institute of Management and Research (XIMR), Xavier's Institute of Communication (XIC) will soon begin their admission process.
For admission related queries refer to our college website: https://xaviers.edu/
The official portal provides comprehensive details regarding entrance tests, eligibility, fees, courses, programmes and deadlines.
Xavierites for Xavierites: Supporting the Next Generation
Hello Fellow-Xavierite,
Greetings from the Placement and Internship Cells of your alma mater, St Xavier's College (Empowered Autonomous Institute), Mumbai.
Since you and I continue to be ‘Made of Xaviers’ We optimistically reach out to you, requesting your assistance and co-operation in two areas.
1. Internship Opportunities:
NEP-2020 mandates that the Second Year (SY) Undergraduate students work as summer interns for a minimum 120 hours in discipline-centric areas. The aim is to expose these students to real-world situations beyond the safe and theoretical confines of the classroom, to help them develop core competencies and build their career trajectories.
2. Placement Opportunities:
Annually, we have about 600 UG students and PG students registering for Placements with the College Placement Cell.
Our efforts are currently aimed at expanding our profile of employers to provide equal opportunities to students with diverse academic and non- academic areas of interest and capabilities. As we prepare our students for the future, we reach out to our alumni community to support them through internship opportunities, placement assistance, and mentorship. Your professional experience, guidance, and networks can make a significant impact in helping our students take confident steps into the world beyond Xavier’s. We warmly invite you to support our students by offering opportunities through: Internships — Email us at: internships@xaviers.edu Placements — Email us at: placements@xaviers.edu Your guidance and professional networks can make a real difference. Together, let us continue to build the Xavier's legacy of excellence, leadership, and service. Xavier Development Program (XDP) – Alumni Affairs Office (in collaboration with the Placement Cell, St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai)
Leadership and Foresight
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Dr. Fr. Keith D’Souza, SJ (Director, Xavier Development Programme – XDP)
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Prof. Dr. Karuna Gokarn (Principal, St. Xavier’s College)
Editorial and Content Coordination
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Ms. Belinda Jones (Editorial and Media Cell Coordinator)
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Dr. Bobby P. Mathew (Executive Officer, Xavier Development Programme – XDP)
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Ms. Roma Pereira-Talwar (Media Cell – Advisory and Support)
Student Editorial Team
1. Nila Mukund Varma
2. Mogh Guralwar
3. Ravya Rai
4. Sohinee Sanyal
5. Anya Singh
6. Shweta Kangale
7. Aarav Garg