On November 27, 2025, Mr. Gabriel Pereira, an Organ Donation Ambassador with the MOHAN Foundation, conducted an awareness session on organ donation for the students of Class IX at St. Elizabeth High School, Pomburpa.

Gabriel began by introducing himself and explaining his role as an organ donation ambassador, sharing that he has delivered more than 200 awareness talks across Goa at schools, colleges, Carnivals, and Purple Fest. He encouraged the students to join him in spreading the message of organ donation.

To engage the class, he asked whether anyone can buy an organ. Many students responded “yes,” giving him the opportunity to clarify that buying or selling organs is illegal under the law passed in 1994, which governs the removal, storage, and transplantation of human organs and tissues.

He shared that India’s first successful heart transplant took place on August 3, 1994, and briefed the students on the organs and tissues commonly transplanted in Goa, as well as the hospitals that carry out these procedures.

Gabriel also advised the students to encourage their parents to undergo regular health check-ups, stressing the growing prevalence of high blood pressure and diabetes in Goa.

He explained that if a person dies at home, their tissues and entire body can be donated. He also noted that organ donation is possible in cases of brain death resulting from severe head injuries in road accidents, provided the family gives consent.

Throughout the session, Gabriel emphasised that although many people express a desire to donate their organs, they often lack a clear understanding of the process. He encouraged the students to share what they had learned with their families and communities to help build greater awareness.

At the end of the session, Gabriel distributed flyers containing frequently asked questions about organ donation to all 60 students who attended.

He concluded by thanking the Headmistress, Mrs. Shunia Mendes, for giving the MOHAN Foundation the opportunity to conduct this important awareness talk.