Four and a half centuries of Portuguese rule have indelibly shaped Goa's cultural canvas. The Konkan land's architectural landscape, culinary flavours, and socio-cultural rhythms still resonate with the colonial era's vibrations. Today, Goa's eclectic essence – a symphony of cultures and foreign influences – mesmerises travelers worldwide.
What sets this programme apart is its distinctive 'live and work' model. Participants do not merely observe Goa's socio-cultural and ecological dynamics—they immerse themselves fully in it. By living on-site and engaging in real-time with local stakeholders, communities, and pressing issues, they gain experience that goes far beyond conventional internships or workshops.
This model enables participants to witness the impacts of tourism and development in Goa, fostering a deeper appreciation for the state's rich heritage, society, culture and its fragile ecology.
Over the years, the programme has captured the interest of candidates from across the globe, becoming a sought-after opportunity for those eager to gain experience and expertise in a real-world context. Through a carefully-structured itinerary, The Goa Programme shapes the participants' skills, refines their perspectives, and encourages collaborative problem-solving. Guided by experienced professionals from DraftCraft International, participants contribute to projects that not only address current issues but also envision sustainable solutions for Goa's future.
Tourism and mining fuel Goa's economy, yet the state grapples with a multitude of challenges. Environmental degradation ravages its natural beauty, while heritage sites crumble. Lopsided development and mismanagement threaten the delicate balance. Unregulated tourism and migrant influx spark insider-outsider conflicts, cultural disintegration, law and order issues and safety concerns for locals and tourists alike.
DraftCraft International's dedicated team has been working in Goa for over two decades collaborating with local stakeholders and the State, to tackle pressing issues through media advocacy and legal expertise.
The team, comprising researchers, journalists, lawyers, and volunteers, engages with indigenous groups, tribals, migrant population, etc. to grasp the complexities of their struggles. Simultaneously, they interact with lawmakers, administrators, environmentalists, academicians, and activists to further inclusive policies and sustainable solutions.
The Goa Programme is more than just an educational experience—it is an immersive journey that combines professional development with personal growth, making a tangible impact on Goa’s socio-cultural fabric while equipping participants to become advocates for meaningful change.
In-Residence Internships
Each year, for a limited period, The Goa Programme is thrown open to participants, beyond DraftCraft International's core team, seeking industry and field experience. The In-Residence Internships are highly sought after by students, recent graduates, and young professionals looking to boost their careers in competitive international fora.
These internships offer valuable opportunities to acquire professional experience in multiple fields and domains, including and not restricted to:
Anthropology & Natural Law, Development Studies, Climate Change & Environmental Studies, Fake News, Film-Making & Film Studies, Foreign Policy, Gender Studies, History & Heritage Management, Human Rights, Inclusive Tourism, Indigenous Groups & Cultures, International Affairs & Diplomacy, International Law, Journalism & Media Studies, Law, Peace & Conflict Studies, Policy Research & Public Policy, Refugee & Migrant Rights, Sustainable Development, Urban Planning and others.
The internships are open to all individuals of major age, whether of Indian or foreign nationality.
During the internship and for a specific period therein, basic shared accommodation is provided to interns, at no cost (at the sole discretion of the organisation). Participants may avail the complimentary accommodation or make private arrangements at their own cost.
For more details on the internships and application procedure, click here.
Residential Workshops
Imagine delving into immersive workshops where your 'classroom' extends across the diverse landscapes of Goa — from sun-dappled beaches and heritage forts to lush mangroves and bustling village markets. Held in collaboration with DraftCraft Institutes, these field-based workshops unlock a vibrant world beyond the traditional four walls.
Here, the sands underfoot, the sound of waves, or the whispering palms are more than just scenery—they’re the backdrop for hands-on, experiential learning. Each session embraces Goa’s eclectic culture and natural beauty, breaking the monotony of lectures by encouraging active engagement with real-world situations.
Participants find themselves analysing live case studies by the Mandovi River, unraveling media techniques amidst historic landmarks, or mastering the art of policy-making on an island encircled by lush mangroves. This dynamic format fuels both creativity and curiosity, transforming the learning experience into an exciting journey where every location reveals new perspectives and insights.
The workshops are open to all individuals of major age, whether of Indian or foreign nationality.
The following workshops are held regularly in Goa. For specific dates and announcements, refer to DraftCraft International's LinkedIn page and Instagram handle:
1) Gender Rights: What Next After Section 377? (Three-Day Workshop)
Under the newly-introduced Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the legal definition of rape in India is restricted to male offenders and female victims, similar to the repealed Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code. This narrow framework neglects the severe risks of sexual violence faced by transgender individuals, leaving many without adequate legal protection. Section 377 once served as a critical, though limited, avenue for justice for the LGBT community. Now, with its repeal, sexual violence is categorised under offences like 'grievous hurt,' diminishing the seriousness of their trauma, weakening penalties for perpetrators, and undermining hard-won strides toward dignity and recognition.
2) Films and Freedom (Three-Day Workshop)
Films, upon public release, transcend mere creative expression to become powerful communication tools. As a medium, film arguably wields the greatest impact. However, the law intervenes when the right to freedom of speech and expression conflicts with the fundamental rights of others under the Indian Constitution. This workshop will explore topics including Film Censorship, Freedom of Speech, Legal Implications, Copyright, and more, providing a comparative analysis of film freedom in India and globally.
Films and Freedom is DraftCraft International's signature workshop held every year during the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) held in Panjim, Goa and attended widely by students, film enthusiasts and professionals.
3) Environment vs Development (Three-Day Workshop)
The enduring conflict between environment conservation and development remains a complex challenge. In a zone like Goa, for local residents, who are the true stakeholders, the priority is to embrace development that advances their own interests and well-being without compromising the needs of tourists. In essence, what may appear as progress to one group can be perceived as an environmental threat by another. The solution lies in the informed, thoughtful management of resources to address diverse needs effectively.
4) Food and the Law (Three-Day Workshop)
Today, many food items have shifted from being genuinely natural to merely 'naturally-flavoured,' with essential natural ingredients replaced by chemicals labeled as flavour enhancers, taste boosters, colouring agents, emulsifiers, and stabilisers. This workshop will explore the range of chemical additives present in modern food products, their adverse impacts on human health, and the relevant legal aspects.
5) Privatisation of National Heritage (Three-Day Workshop)
Adoption of heritage sites come as a turning point in India’s conservation ethos, where private corporations are invited—through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives—to take on the responsibilities of not merely safeguarding but actively enhancing the country’s cultural legacy. The adopting companies are tasked with developing and maintaining essential visitor facilities, an assignment that involves refurbishing pathways, constructing restrooms, and creating shelters for tourists who flock to this historic site. Case in point being Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa churches and Aguada Jail in Goa.
* Workshop Fee includes:
- Workshop sessions
- Expert lectures
- Field sessions
- Complimentary basic, shared accommodation during the workshop
* Workshop Fee does not include:
- Travel to/from Goa
- Travel within Goa
- Meals
- Anything that has not been expressly provided. For any special requirements, you may inquire with the office (Extra charges will apply for any special request / need)
* Accommodation during the Workshop:
For the duration of the workshop, basic shared accommodation is provided in Goa. Exclusive accommodation can be requested (Extra charges will apply)
* Takeaways from the Workshop:
- DraftCraft International Certificate of Participation
- Academic learning and practical understanding of issues
- Chance to observe 'live projects'
- Opportunity to network with industry professionals
- Opportunity to extend social circles
- Professional upskilling and training
- Participate in outdoor lectures/sessions across Goa
To register for the workshop(s), fill the Registration Form here and you will be contacted shortly after with payment information and further course of action.
For queries, email on contact@draftcraft.in or Call/WhatsApp on +91 8080441593.