Goa College launches marriage readiness course, know why it is needed

New Delhi: Young people spend years studying and preparing for a career, but often don't prepare separately to understand the responsibilities of marriage and family life. Recognizing this need, a college in Goa has launched a special certificate course for young people. Titled "Marriage Readiness: Preparing for Healthy and Lasting Relationships," this course will provide information on how to prepare mentally and emotionally before marriage, understand your partner, and build rapport in relationships.

This course is being launched by the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at the Goa College of Home Science. According to college principal Mahesh Pai, it will be held from December 2 to 17, 2026. This 15-day program will teach young people important aspects of married life and family.

What is the purpose?

Its purpose is not limited to wedding preparations; it will prepare young people to understand the responsibilities of relationships, respect each other's feelings, and deal with the challenges that come after marriage.

What was the reason behind starting this initiative?

This course is being launched in Goa at a time when the state government is also considering establishing a system for premarital counseling. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated at an event in Panaji that the government intends to introduce premarital counseling across the state. The aim is to reduce marital problems and help prevent divorce cases. According to data from the state's Law Department, more than 3,000 cases related to marriage and divorce were filed in Goa's civil courts between 2022 and 2025, up from 947 in 2024.

Who can apply?

According to college principal Mahesh Pai, undergraduate and postgraduate students are eligible to apply for this course. Unmarried young people and others seeking healthy relationships can also participate.

The aim is to develop an understanding of relationships

There are many reasons behind delaying marriage today, such as career, financial pressures, higher education, and finding the right partner. Even after marriage, relationships can be strained due to job demands, distance, family responsibilities, and mutual expectations.

In such a situation, it is considered essential to educate young people on aspects such as emotional understanding, mutual respect, communication, and conflict resolution through premarital counseling. The purpose of the course is not to pressure young people into marriage, but to empower them to understand relationships and make informed decisions about their future.