Goa University has garnered attention as the sole provider of undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) degrees in Portuguese across India. This distinction places the institution at the forefront of Portuguese language education in the country. However, despite this milestone, the university faces significant challenges stemming from a shortage of experts in the field.

The demand for Portuguese language education has surged in recent years, driven by factors such as increased trade relations between India and Portuguese-speaking nations, as well as growing opportunities in sectors like tourism and diplomacy. Yet, the scarcity of qualified instructors and scholars proficient in Portuguese has become a major impediment to the university’s efforts to meet this demand.

Dr. Varun Sahni, Vice-Chancellor of Goa University, emphasized the importance of addressing this shortage, stating that the institution is committed to expanding its Portuguese language program to cater to the rising interest among students. However, he acknowledged the need for concerted efforts to attract and retain skilled professionals in the field.

Efforts to bridge this gap include initiatives to collaborate with universities and institutions abroad, as well as offering incentives to attract Portuguese language experts to the university. Additionally, Goa University is exploring avenues for online education and virtual instruction to reach a wider audience beyond its physical campus.

The significance of Portuguese language proficiency extends beyond academic pursuits, with implications for cultural exchange, diplomatic relations, and economic development. Therefore, addressing the shortage of experts in this field is crucial not only for Goa University but also for India’s broader engagement with Portuguese-speaking nations.