The proposed Goa College of Fisheries Science is expected to commence admissions this year, with the first academic session likely to begin in August. Nodal officer Rishikesh Pawar stated that the intake for the inaugural batch is projected to be either 20 or 40 seats, contingent upon approvals during the affiliation process with Goa University.
Admission Timeline and Affiliation
Once the affiliation is finalized, the admission process will be initiated. Pawar confirmed that the college will start operations in the academic year 2026-27. The institution will function under a government-run society under the agriculture department, following the same administrative model as the Goa College of Agriculture, which is already operational under this setup.
Leadership and Infrastructure
Dr. Suresh Kunkalikar, dean of Goa College of Agriculture, is likely to be associated with the new fisheries college as well. Initially, the college will operate from a renovated fisheries training centre facility at Ela, Old Goa, near the Alla Dawji farm area. The existing premises are being upgraded to meet the infrastructure requirements of a degree-granting institution. A permanent campus is also planned near the existing farm premises in Old Goa, though timelines for construction are yet to be finalized.
Practical Training and Curriculum
The farms spread over approximately 10 hectares will be utilized for practical training, demonstrations, and student learning activities. The college will initially function under Goa University affiliation norms. Accreditation from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) can be sought only after the first batch reaches the final year, as the fisheries program is a four-year degree course.
Pawar explained that the syllabus is standardized at the national level, and the same curriculum is followed across India for fisheries education. Compliance with ICAR norms is essential for future accreditation.
