Why competitive exams deserve greater attention in Goa

A question that often comes to mind is: How many Goan graduates are seriously preparing for national-level competitive examinations after completing their education?

If we look around our neighbourhoods, colleges and social circles, the number appears relatively small. Most graduates understandably focus on securing employment in the private sector, joining government service through state recruitment, pursuing family businesses, or seek opportunities abroad. While these are all valid career paths, it is worth asking whether enough young Goans are aware of the opportunities available through competitive examinations.

THE GOA SCENARIO

In my view, Goa lacks a strong ecosystem that encourages students to consider competitive examinations as a serious career option. In several larger states, examinations such as UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, Defence Services, and Insurance Services are common topics of discussion among students and parents. In Goa, however, the conversation is often largely limited to GPSC and state government recruitment.

Many students assume that these examinations require highly specialised knowledge. In reality, a significant portion of the assessment focuses on skills that graduates from any academic background can develop – English comprehension, essay writing, current affairs, logical reasoning, analytical ability, aptitude and basic mathematics form the foundation of many competitive examinations. Candidates from Arts, Commerce, Science, Engineering, Law, and other disciplines compete on the same platform.

Unfortunately, our educational system does not consciously prepare students for these requirements. Schools and colleges remain primarily focused on completing the syllabus and securing examination marks. While academic performance is important, limited attention is given to preparing skills for such competitive examinations and the prestigious careers they can open.

Teachers can play a crucial role in this regard. A simple conversation, career guidance session, or recommendation can influence a student’s aspirations. Yet many capable students complete their education without ever being encouraged to explore national-level competitive examinations.

The challenge also reflects a broader educated, but narrow societal mindset. Education is often viewed mainly as a means of obtaining a degree and finding immediate employment. As a result, many graduates are reluctant to invest additional years preparing for competitive examinations, even when the long-term opportunities may be significant.

This is particularly unfortunate because Goa possesses many advantages. According to available data, nearly 27 percent of Goan households have at least one graduate, placing the state among the highest in the country. Goa’s literacy rate is also close to universal literacy. These achievements reflect decades of investment in education and social development.

However, educational attainment alone does not guarantee representation in national services. Data from the Indian Administrative Service Officers Data Set (TCPD-IAS), covering the period from 1951 to 2020, shows that Uttar Pradesh accounted for approximately 15.8 percent of IAS officers recruited through UPSC, followed by Bihar at 10.7 percent, Rajasthan at 7.5 percent, and Tamil Nadu at 6.8 percent. Goa’s share stood at approximately 0.02 percent.

Population differences certainly explain part of this gap. Nevertheless, the figures also highlight the importance of a strong preparation ecosystem. States that consistently produce successful candidates often have coaching institutions, study circles, mentorship networks, libraries, and visible role models that make such aspirations seem achievable.

Goan students possess many qualities that align well with the demands of competitive examinations, including strong English communication skills, adaptability, and analytical thinking. With today’s online learning platforms, quality study material, lectures, and mentorship are more accessible than ever before.

Goa has the talent and educational foundation to succeed. What is needed is greater awareness, stronger support systems, and a culture that encourages more young graduates to dream beyond traditional career paths and compete confidently on the national stage. The challenge is not talent, it is aspiration.

The writer is an Assistant Professor at Shree Mallikarjun and Shri Chettan Manju Desai College, Canacona