Eighteen girl students of the Damodar Higher Secondary School, in South Goa, learnt essential life-saving skills and methods to protect themselves and respond during emergency situations in the water. The exposure came through Sagar Safar, a programme that introduces students to understanding the sea, including identifying tides and waves and how marine life exists in different conditions.
The students participated in the programme at Benaulim beach in South Goa as part of their Vocational Healthcare Science curriculum. The visit was organised under the subject first aid in emergency, with the objective of offering practical, hands-on learning beyond the classroom.
During the session, students were familiarised with basic sea safety principles and the realities of coastal environments. The programme also focused on helping participants build confidence while approaching the sea, particularly for those with little prior exposure to open water.
Sharing her experience, Sadhana Jamuni of Class 12 said the students were grateful to the team at Drishti Marine and the Sagar Safar initiative for the opportunity. She also said that the session helped the class develop a clearer understanding of the sea and enabled many students to overcome their fear of entering the water.
Stefni Silva, also a Class 12 student, said the programme increased awareness about safety in the sea and taught them practical life-saving skills. She added that the experience made the students feel more confident and secure while approaching the water.
Sagar Safar is available on a daily basis with sessions at 11 AM and 4 PM at Baga, Calangute, Sinquerim and Candolim in North Goa, and Benaulim and Colva in South Goa.
The guided swims will be conducted throughout the year, except during the monsoon season when swimming is not permitted due to rough sea conditions.
