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KK Birla BITS Goa Campus Open Day: A Celebration of Innovation and Excellence

On 23rd November 2024, six faculty members, namely, Mr. Sameer Patil, Ms. Annette Santimano, Mr. Ramkrishna Reddy, Ms. Samira Vengulekar, Ms. Girija Gaonkar and Ms. Rakshavi Dessai, from the Department of Computer Science at VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics had the distinct honour of attending the KK Birla BITS Goa Campus Open Day. This event showcased the institution’s unwavering commitment to driving technological innovation, fostering academic excellence, and promoting holistic development in its academic community. The meticulously planned program offered an immersive experience, highlighting the campus’s dedication to forward-thinking education and cutting-edge research.

Engaging Dialogues with Visionary Faculty: The day commenced with insightful discussions with the esteemed faculty members of BITS Goa. These enriching dialogues offered a deep dive into emerging technological trends and groundbreaking advancements across diverse disciplines. The faculty shared their perspectives on the evolving global technological landscape showcased the institution’s role as a leader in innovation and its ability to stay at the forefront of academic excellence.

State-of-the-Art Campus Infrastructure: A guided tour of the campus revealed its world-class infrastructure, thoughtfully designed to create an environment conducive to learning, research, and collaboration. Advanced laboratories equipped with the latest technological tools, innovative collaborative spaces, and sustainability-focused architecture underscored the institution’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and responsible academic ecosystem.

Showcasing Excellence Through Dynamic Projects: The highlight of the Open Day was the exhibition of cutting-edge projects by students and faculty. These projects spanned diverse fields such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, renewable energy, and biomedical engineering. Each project exemplified the application of advanced technologies in solving real-world problems through a multidisciplinary approach, reflecting the institution’s focus on cultivating problem-solving skills and innovative thinking among its students.

A Culinary Delight: The hospitality extended by the campus dining facilities was nothing short of exceptional. Guests were treated to a variety of meticulously prepared, delectable dishes that added a touch of warmth and care to the entire experience. The attention to detail in every aspect of the event reflected the institution’s holistic approach to creating memorable experiences.

The KK Birla BITS Goa Campus Open Day was an extraordinary fusion of intellectual engagement, technological exploration, and warm hospitality. It left an indelible mark, affirming the institution’s status as a beacon of academic and research excellence.

This remarkable event not only inspired the attendees but also underscored BITS Goa’s pivotal role in shaping future leaders and innovators. We look forward to future collaborations and opportunities to engage further with this exceptional institution, which continues to pave the way for transformative contributions on the global stage.

Celebration of “National Mathematics Day 2024”

The Department of Computer Science, under the Tech Trendz Club, celebrated National Mathematics Day 2024 on 21st December 2024 to commemorate the birth anniversary of the renowned Indian Mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. The event was held from 8:15 AM to 12:00 Noon in the Smart classroom and S-202 classroom, comprising of three main activities: a documentary screening on Srinivasa Ramanujan, a Sudoku competition, and a Math Showdown.

The event commenced with a warm welcome by Ms. Yugandhara Joshi, Assistant Professor in Mathematics, who emphasized the significance of Mathematics Day and Ramanujan’s invaluable contributions.

Activity 1: Screening of the Documentary

The event began with the screening of the documentary “The Mathematician and His Legacy” in the Smart Classroom from 8:15 AM to 9:15 AM. The documentary offered an inspiring glimpse into Ramanujan’s life his mathematical brilliance, and the global impact of his work. It captivated 52 attendees (33 males, 19 females), fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Mathematics.

Activity 2: Sudoku Competition

The Sudoku Competition was held in Classroom S202 at 9:45 AM. Among the 10 participants (06 males, 04 females), Miss. Simren Ghadi, student of FYBVoc (ST), emerged victorious. This activity underscored the strategic and analytical benefits of solving Sudoku puzzles, helping participants hone their concentration and problem-solving skills.

Activity 3: Math Showdown

The Math Showdown, an engaging Mathematics exhibition, took place in the Smart Classroom from 9:45 AM to 12:00 Noon. 21 students (13 males, 08 females) participated, presenting innovative and interactive topics, including:

Significant constants in Mathematics
Contributions by Indian Mathematicians
Techniques for solving the Rubik’s Cube
Important Mathematical results
Fun with Math: Interactive Math Games

The interactive and informative sessions enhanced students’ knowledge and cultivated an appreciation for numbers. The Math Showdown received enthusiastic feedback, particularly for the Math Games, which made the sessions lively and enjoyable. The exhibition highlighted the creative and fun aspects of Mathematics, leaving a lasting impression on the attendees.

The National Mathematics Day 2024 celebration successfully honored the legacy of Srinivasa Ramanujan while nurturing a love for Mathematics among students. The event inspired participants to explore the subject with renewed enthusiasm and confidence.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity:

It enhanced understanding of key mathematical concepts and improved analytical and problem-solving skills among participants. The event successfully showcased the fun and creative aspects of Mathematics, aiming to reduce math anxiety and promote a more positive perspective on the subject. It also stimulated curiosity about Mathematics, motivating students to explore its applications beyond the classroom. Furthermore, the activities highlighted real-life applications of Mathematics, encouraging participants to appreciate its relevance and significance in everyday scenarios.

Fun Fest Bazaar 2024

The Fun Fest Bazaar 2024 was successfully organized by the E-Cell, Incubation Centre and IIC in association with the Post Graduate Department of Commerce of the college. The event was held on the 20th and 21st December 2024 at the college campus, specifically near the canteen and quadrangle, running from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM on both days.

The primary objective of the event was to create an interactive and vibrant platform for students to demonstrate their entrepreneurial skills, creativity, and teamwork while fostering a sense of community among various academic programs.

A total of 13 stalls were set up by 42 students (24 Female, 18 Male) from various programmes including B.Com, BCA, BBA, and M.Com, each offering a diverse array of mouthwatering food items and engaging activities. The food stalls featured a variety of treats such as cakes, cupcakes, brownies, chatpata chicken, shev puri, cheesecakes, milkshakes, coolers, burgers, Goan forminhas/canopies, and guava chaat. In addition to the food, game stalls were also set up, adding an element of fun and entertainment to the event. The stalls were well received by the participants, who enjoyed the variety of offerings and appreciated the creative presentation of the products. The students demonstrated exceptional teamwork, entrepreneurial thinking, and customer service skills as they set up and managed their stalls. The event also served as a great opportunity for networking and collaboration, with students from diverse programmes interacting and collaborating throughout the two days.

The Fun Fest Bazaar 2024 was a significant success in promoting practical learning, fostering entrepreneurial engagement, and encouraging community spirit. It provided students with a hands-on experience in managing a business venture in a live environment, making it an enriching experience for all involved.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity:

The Fun Fest Bazaar 2024 aimed to enhance students’ entrepreneurial skills by offering a real-world platform to run businesses, handle customer interactions, and address challenges. It promotes practical learning by bridging the gap between theory and application, as students gain insights into business operations, marketing, and customer service. The event fosters networking and collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds, while encouraging cultural exchange and socialization. Managing stalls will develop students’ leadership and teamwork skills, preparing them for future careers. Ultimately, the event is expected to boost college spirit and foster a stronger sense of community.

Two-Day National Level Workshop on Trending Technologies and Research Tools in Library & Information Science

The Department of Library & Information Science at VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics, in collaboration with the Directorate of Higher Education, Government of Goa, organized a Two-Day National Workshop on “Trending Technologies and Research Tools in Library & Information Science” on 16th and 17th December 2024 at the Ganesh Daivajna Auditorium. The workshop was attended by 56 participants (41 females, 25 males).The event commenced with an Invocation, Deep Prajwalan and a floral tribute to Lord Damodar and Dr. S.R. Ranganathan (Father of Library Science), led by the Chief Guest, Shri Bhushan Savoikar, Director of Higher Education, Goa. The Officiating Principal, Prof. Sanjay P. Sawant Dessai, delivered the welcome address, followed by a detailed event overview presented by the Workshop Coordinator, Mrs. Manasi Rege.

Shri Bhushan Savoikar, in his address, emphasized enhancing student engagement with libraries and leveraging technology to improve processes without replacing human roles.

The Keynote Speaker, Mr. Pralhad Jadhav, presented on “Shaping the Future of the LIS Domain with Technology-Driven Information Retrieval,” exploring emerging trends like prompt engineering and modern library research. The session concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Workshop Co-Coordinator, Mrs. Swati Bhat.

The first technical session on “Innovative Resources for Research” was conducted by Mr. Pralhad Jadhav, Associate Professor at Khaitan & Co., Library Mumbai. Mr. Jadav addressed the challenges of data explosion and emphasized the importance of effective resource management in the evolving research landscape. He introduced strategies for becoming a “smart researcher” by utilizing tools like Everything (desktop search app), Windows Gadgets, and Snipping Tools to simplify research tasks.

The second session on “Google and AI Tools for Research” was also conducted by Mr. Pralhad Jadhav. He introduced essential Google tools such as Google Scholar, Google Classroom, Google Drive, and Google Translate for efficient information retrieval and organization. Tools like Google Custom Search Engine and Google Reverse Image Search were also highlighted for specific research needs. He also introduced Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and its five stages, emphasizing its role in enhancing research capabilities.

The third session, titled “A.I. Tools for Research,” was conducted by Dr. Gopakumar V, Head of the Knowledge Centre at Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation, and Technology. He began with an engaging analogy comparing ChatGPT to a human, highlighting its ability to learn and adapt through interactions. The session covered key features of ChatGPT, such as simulating human-like communication and performing tasks like data management and Excel calculations, along with an introduction to the Bricks AI tool as a complementary technology.

The fourth session of the workshop, titled “Literature Search and Reference Management”, was also conducted by Dr.Gopakumar. The session focused on leveraging ChatGPT as an AI-powered tool for academic tasks, particularly in literature searches, reference management, and content creation.

Day 2 began with the 5th session which was presented by Dr. J. Shivarama, Chairperson of the Center for Library and Information Management Studies at Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai,  on “Innovative Technologies for Building Future Libraries”. The session explored advancements like the Koha Integrated Library System (ILS), marking the shift from traditional to modern libraries, and emphasized the emerging role of Blended Librarians. Dr. Shivarama discussed the development of digital libraries, highlighting the integration of AI tools, content management systems like WordPress, and AI-based conversational agents. He stressed the importance of ICT skills and the need for librarians to adapt to technological changes.

The sixth session, titled Internet of Things (IoT) and Emerging Technologies in Library Science, was conducted by Dr. J. Shivarama. The session provided practical insights into modern technological tools relevant to library science. Dr. Shivarama demonstrated command-based installations, including steps for setting up LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP), and explained the database creation process with practical utility. He highlighted the applications of Lynx for library management and showcased Drupal software for database configuration and web design. The session concluded with an overview of web designing and an engaging Q&A session where participants clarified their doubts.

The seventh session, titled “Research Platforms: Tools to Enhance Your Research Effectiveness,” was led by Dr. Satish Kanamaddi, Librarian at Tata Institute of Social Sciences. Dr. Kanamaddi highlighted the importance of research for learning and personal development, addressing key questions—what, why, and how. The session covered essential research platforms, including Scopus, Web of Science, Indian Citation Index, J.Gate, Google Scholar, and Microsoft Academic Search, with practical demonstrations. It concluded with an online quiz to reinforce participants’ knowledge.

The eighth technical session, titled “Researcher ID: Manage and Enhance Research Validity,” commenced at 2:15 PM and was conducted by Dr. Satish Kanamaddi. He highlighted the importance of unique identifiers for researchers to establish a strong digital identity and enhance credibility. Dr. Kanamaddi discussed digital author identifiers like ORCID and their role in ensuring accurate attribution of research work. He also addressed the relevance of digital identity in India’s higher education, the growing volume of research, academic leadership in a digital environment, and the use of Moodle as an open-source platform. The session concluded at 3:30 PM with an online quiz to reinforce key concepts.

The Valedictory function concluded the Two-Day National Workshop on “Trending Technologies and Research Tools in Library & Information Science”. The session began at 3.45 pm with a welcome address by the Principal Prof. Sanjay Sawant Dessai, highlighting the workshop’s significance. Assistant Professor Ms. Swati Bhat summarized the workshop’s key sessions, and participants shared positive feedback on the engaging sessions and practical knowledge gained. Dr. Satish Kanamadi, the Valedictory Guest, was introduced by Assistant Professor Ms. Sheryl Sanches and welcomed with a floral tribute by Ms. Pooja Gaonkar. Dr. Kanamadi commended the workshop’s impact and encouraged participants to explore the new technologies discussed. Prof. Sanjay Dessai presented Dr. Kanamadi with a memento, and Mrs. Manasi D. Rege delivered the Vote of Thanks. The event concluded with the National Anthem, marking the formal closure of the workshop.

Expected Outcome of the Activity: 

The Two-Day National Workshop on “Trending Technologies and Research Tools in Library & Information Science” equipped participants with advanced skills in LIS technologies, AI tools, research platforms, and digital identity management. Expert-led sessions emphasized practical applications, fostering professional growth, blended librarianship, and adaptability to modern advancements in the field.

M.Com Study Tour

The Post Graduate Department of Commerce organized a 10-day study tour from 22nd November to 1st December 2024 for 31 M.Com Part I and Part II students (12 Male, 19 Female) and 03 M.Com teachers, namely, Asst. Prof. Twinkle Fernandes, Asst. Prof. Valencia Baptista and Asst. Prof. Edrea Picardo. The study tour aimed to provide students with an opportunity to explore India’s rich history, culture, and traditions through visits to prominent destinations, including Delhi, Manali, Kullu, Amritsar, and Chandigarh.

Key Highlights of the Tour

22nd November 2024: Departure to Delhi

The group embarked on their journey early in the morning, departing from Madgaon Railway Station at 4:30 AM for Delhi.

23rd November 2024: Delhi Arrival and Sarojini Market Exploration

Upon arrival at Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station at 1:30 PM, the group checked into their hotel for a brief rest before visiting the bustling Sarojini Market. From 5:00 PM to 9:15 PM, students explored the vibrant marketplace, honing their bargaining skills and experiencing the diverse range of products on offer. The day concluded with a hearty dinner and a restful night.

24th November 2024: Delhi Sightseeing 

The next day, the group set off to explore Delhi’s historical landmarks.

Qutub Minar: The visit to this ancient monument was an opportunity to learn about Mughal architecture and the history of Delhi.
Lotus Temple: This peaceful place of worship gave students insight into the Bahá’í faith and the importance of spirituality and unity.
India Gate: Visiting this war memorial allowed students to reflect on India’s history and the sacrifices of its soldiers.
The group also enjoyed a traditional lunch at Andhra Pradesh Bhavan before boarding a night bus to Manali. The bus ride provided a chance to relax and enjoy the views of the countryside.

25th November 2024: Manali Sightseeing

The group arrived in Manali and checked into Hotel Confier. After a relaxing breakfast, they visited:

Hadimba Temple: This ancient temple gave students a glimpse into the region’s cultural and religious traditions.
Buddhist Monastery: The visit to this tranquil place allowed students to learn about Buddhist practices and the peaceful lifestyle of monks.
Mall Road: A walk along the road allowed the group to experience the local lifestyle and shop for handicrafts.

The day ended with a bonfire, where students bonded with each other, making the experience even more memorable.

26th November 2024: Snowpoint Adventure in Manali

The students took a scenic drive to Rohtang Snowpoint, where they had fun playing in the snow and enjoyed the beautiful winter landscape. Later, they returned to Mall Road for some shopping, exploring the local market for unique items.

27th November 2024: River Rafting at Kullu

The group travelled to Kullu in the morning where they had a thrilling river rafting experience. After lunch by the the riverside of Kullu, the group explored the divinity of the Vaishnodevi Temple and then departed for Amritsar.

28th November 2024: Amritsar

In Amritsar, the group visited the Golden Temple, an important pilgrimage site for Sikhs, where they learned about the history and significance of the temple. Later, they witnessed the Wagah Border ceremony, which was a thrilling experience. The ceremony showcased the strength and pride of both India and Pakistan, giving students a deeper understanding of the importance of borders and national unity.

29th November 2024: Chandigarh

On the 29th, the group travelled to Chandigarh, where they visited the famous Rock Garden, an artistic creation made from recycled materials. This visit sparked creativity and highlighted the importance of sustainable art. The group also visited Sukhna Lake, where they enjoyed the serene surroundings and learned about environmental conservation. In the evening, they boarded a bus for Delhi.

30th November 2024: Departure to Goa

The group boarded their train back to Madgaon at 5:35 AM, carrying memories of an enriching experience.

1st December 2024: Arrival in Madgaon

The tour concluded as the group arrived at Madgaon Railway Station at 4:50 PM.

The journey was a truly enriching experience that allowed the students to gain knowledge about India’s rich history, culture, and traditions.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity:

The study tour aimed to enhance students’ knowledge of India’s rich cultural and historical heritage by visiting landmarks like the Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Golden Temple, and more, fostering a deeper appreciation of the country’s diversity. The visit to Sarojini Market in Delhi will provide students with practical exposure to market dynamics, consumer behaviour, and negotiation skills. Exposure to diverse religious practices and spiritual landmarks will help students develop a broader understanding of cultural and spiritual diversity in India. This enriching experience is anticipated to broaden students’ perspectives and equip them with real-world knowledge, enhancing both their academic and personal growth.

Faculty Knowledge Sharing Programme

The Research & Development Cell (R&D Cell) of VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics organized a week-long Faculty Knowledge Sharing Programme from 11th to 15th November 2024, conducted from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM daily in the Smart Classroom. The programme aimed to promote academic discourse and inspire faculty members of the college to pursue research endeavours actively.

Day-Wise Summary:

Day 1: Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Currency Market and Price Forecasting

Presenter: Mr. Sandesh Gaonkar
Mr. Gaonkar presented his research on the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in currency market analysis and price forecasting. The session highlighted how AI models, such as machine learning algorithms, outperform traditional forecasting methods by processing real-time data and identifying patterns in volatile market conditions. The presentation demonstrated the potential of AI in improving accuracy, risk management, and decision-making for traders and policymakers. (Attendance: 46 faculty members).

Day 2: Using Importance-Satisfaction Analysis to Develop Mass Transportation Services at the Tourist Destination

Presenter: Dr. Anjali Sajilal
Dr. Sajilal discussed the application of the Importance-Satisfaction Analysis (ISA) framework to evaluate mass transportation services at tourist destinations. The study identified key service attributes, such as safety and accessibility, which required improvement to enhance tourist satisfaction. Recommendations included improving safety measures, increasing service frequency, and adopting sustainable transport solutions like electric buses. (Attendance: 38 faculty members).

Day 3: Temporal Dynamics of Carbon Emissions, Economic Growth & Environmental Technology in BRICS Nations

Presenters: Ms. Swati Bhat and Dr. Maithili Naik
The joint presentation analyzed the relationship between economic growth, carbon emissions, and environmental technology in BRICS nations. The study emphasized the need for green technologies and policy interventions to achieve sustainable growth. Collaborative efforts among BRICS nations were recommended to address global climate challenges while supporting economic development. (Attendance: 29 faculty members).

Day 4: Bridging Gender Gap: Role of PMNY in Promoting Women Entrepreneurs in India

Presenters: Dr. Sheetal Arondekar and Ms. Sushrusha Naik Khandekar
The presentation focused on the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMNY) and its role in reducing the gender gap in entrepreneurship. The study highlighted how the scheme supports women entrepreneurs through collateral-free loans, enabling economic participation. Challenges, such as limited awareness and social barriers, were addressed with actionable recommendations like outreach programs and skill-building initiatives. (Attendance: 41 faculty members).

The programme was well-received and appreciated by the faculty members. It inspired participants to engage in more research publications and presentations. The event was coordinated by Dr. Maithili Naik, Convenor of R&D Cell, and Asst. Prof. Preity Azelia Fernandes, Faculty In-charge and Member of the R&D Cell.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity:

The Faculty Knowledge Sharing Programme aimed to facilitate knowledge exchange among faculty members, fostering an environment of collaborative learning and academic growth. It encouraged participants to engage in more research paper presentations, promoting a culture of scholarly inquiry. Additionally, the program provided constructive feedback to enhance the quality and broaden the scope of the research papers presented, ensuring they met high academic standards and addressed relevant topics effectively.

Diwali Celebrations

The Staff Recreation Club of Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics, organised and celebrated “Diwali Dhamaal” with great enthusiasm from 29th October 2024 to 2nd November 2024. The celebration featured a range of creative competitions, including Diya Painting & Decoration, Poha Making and Akash Kandeel Making, providing an opportunity for the teaching and non-teaching staff members to showcase their talents while celebrating the essence of Diwali.

Highlights of the Celebration:

Akash Kandeel Making Competition (29th October 2024):
Participants crafted an array of stunning handmade eco-friendly khandeels symbolizing light, hope, and tradition. The event was judged by faculty members Ms. Divyanka Kanekar and Ms. Usha Gaonkar.
Diya Painting & Decoration Competition (30th October 2024):
Participants hand-painted and decorated diyas with vibrant designs, intricate patterns, and imaginative color combinations. Judges for the event were faculty members Dr. Maithili Naik and Ms. Ankita Naik.
Poha Making Competition (1st November 2024):
Culinary enthusiasts created delicious variations of this popular Diwali dish, delighting the audience. The judges for this competition were faculty members Dr. Rodney D’Silva and Dr. Lira Menezes Gama.
Main Diwali Celebration (2nd November 2024):
Damodar College came alive with the spirit of Diwali as the Staff Recreation Club hosted the main event from 1:00 to 2:00 pm in Hall No.1 on the 5thfloor, Central Block of the college. The celebration marked by ccultural flair and enthusiasm, with the event being beautifully compered by Ms. Girija Gaonkar, Assistant Professor in Computer Science, who skillfully guided the proceedings and kept the audience engaged. To further enhance the festive excitement, spot prizes were announced and the winners of all the competitions were awarded special prizes for their exceptional performance.

The Staff Recreation Club also organized refreshments in line with the Diwali theme, adding a delicious touch to the celebrations. A series of competitions added a creative spark to the entire Diwali celebrations and was enjoyed by all staff members of the college. The entire event was meticulously planned and organized by Ms. Lizette D’Costa, faculty member of Recreation Club.

The results of the competitions were as follows:

Sr. No
Name of the Competition
Name of the Participants

01
Akash Kandeel Making Competition
1st Place: Ms. Twinkle Fernandes, Ms. Valencia Baptista and Ms. Edrea Picardo

2nd Place: Ms. Kalpana Parab, Ms. Akshada Gaonkar and Ms, Prashanti Bhamaikar

3rd Place: Ms. Pradnya Nadkarni

02
Diya Painting and Deco Competition
1st Place: Ms. Nikhita Mayekar

2nd Place: Ms. Shruti Kunkolienkar, Ms. Girija Gaonkar and Ms. Rakshavi Dessai

3rd Place: Ms. Vinaya Kirloskar

03
Poha Making Competition
1st Place: Dr. Sonya Angle & Dr. Mamata Kane

2nd Place: Ms. Twinkle Fernandes, Ms. Valencia Baptista and Ms. Edrea Picardo

3rd Place: Dr. Lina Sadekar and Dr. Shami Pai

Expected Outcomes of the Activity:

The Diwali Dhamaal organized by the Staff Recreation Club successfully fostered teamwork, creativity, and a positive atmosphere among the teaching and non-teaching staff of the college. The event promoted healthy competition, cultural awareness, and the celebration of Diwali through activities like Diya Painting, Akash Kandeel Making, and Poha Making. It encouraged staff engagement, well-being, and a sense of community while showcasing eco-friendly practices, particularly in the Akash Kandeel Making competition. By recognizing participants’ achievements and offering spot prizes, the event boosted motivation and contributed to a vibrant and cohesive organizational culture. Overall, the celebration not only enhanced interpersonal relationships but also reinforced the college’s commitment to inclusivity and employee well-being.

Report 58th A.D. Shroff Memorial Inter-Collegiate Elocution Competition 2024-25

The 58th A.D. Shroff Memorial Inter-Collegiate Elocution Competition 2024-25 was organized on 14th October 2024 by the Department of Economics, Student Council, and Event Planning & Management Cell of Government College, Borda, in collaboration with The Forum of Free Enterprise, Mumbai.

Participants had the opportunity to select from three thought-provoking themes:

Digital Infrastructure: A New Strategy to Integrate India
Has India Arrived on the Global Sports Scene
Economic Reforms: The Unfinished Agenda

Ms. Shriya Pai, a student from FY B.Com, Div D at our institution, participated in the competition, choosing the theme “Digital Infrastructure: A New Strategy to Integrate India.” She performed exceptionally well, securing the 4th prize among 18 contestants. Her achievement was recognized with a certificate and a cash prize of Rs. 250.

Ms. Shriya was guided and mentored by Ms. Pretty Pereira, Assistant Professor in Economics & Banking.

Synergy 3.0

A team of six students (06 male) from the BBA (FS) Programme participated in Synergy 3.0, an inter-collegiate competition organized by Saraswat Education Society’s Sridora Caculo College of Commerce and Management Studies, Mapusa-Goa. The event took place on 14th and 15th October 2024 at the college campus.

Each student represented the college in different competitive rounds:

Uddhav Talkatkarparticipated in the Entrepreneurship round.
Prajvalit Gaonkarcompeted in the Marketing round.
Aden Vazrepresented the team in the HR round.
Devraj Choudharyparticipated in the Finance round.
Sunil Dhanapanavartook part in the Best Manager round.
Erville Baretto Vaz Rodriguesparticipated in the Crisis Management round.

The event commenced with an inaugural ceremony, setting a positive tone for the for the two-day competition. The theme “AI Revolution: Redefining Business Possibilities” was interwoven throughout the event. Participants engaged in various rounds that were strategically curated to assess their expertise in the respective fields. The competition included stress rounds, understanding various cases, presentations, etc., with the judges providing various insights regarding industrial excellence. There was a friendly, yet competitive spirit instilled in all the participants. Everyone was supportive of each other. Breakfast, lunch and tea was served, during which everyone socialized with each other. There was a teamwork round which boosted participants skills to coordinate with each other.

On the second day, the excitement peaked with the semi-finals and finals. Re-registration ensured all the teams were present, and the remaining rounds intensified the competition. Four teams, including from Damodar College, made it to the final rounds. The Best Manager round – the event’s flagship, took place in a dimly lit room designed to unsettle participants, challenging their ability to think clearly and adapt under pressure.

The event concluded with a valedictory function, featuring cultural performances by the host college, creating a joyful atmosphere before the much-anticipated announcement of results. The team secured remarkable achievements:

1st Placein the Teamwork, HR, and Marketing rounds
Runner-upin the Finance round

These accolades are a testament to the hard work, determination, and expertise demonstrated by the students. The event provided participants with valuable insights into business challenges and sharpened their practical skills, preparing them for future endeavors in the corporate world.

Expected Outcome of the Activity

The event improved participants’ teamwork and collaboration skills, offered practical exposure to real-world business challenges, and deepened their understanding of strategic business management through hands-on experience in a competitive setting.

Peer-to-peer learning session on Blender Tool

On 14th October 2024, the Department of Computer Science organized a Peer-to-Peer Learning session for SY BVoc.(ST) students enrolled in the SL-III, Section B (Audio Video Media) subject. The session was held at 10:30 AM in Classroom F-102 and was led by Khushal Naik, a student from the same batch. The primary objective of the session was to introduce students to the basics of creating 3D animation using Blender software, a powerful and versatile open-source tool widely used in the animation and design industry.

Khushal Naik started the session by explaining the significance of Blender in the field of 3D modeling and animation. He then proceeded to demonstrate the step-by-step process of designing 3D models, showcasing how to manipulate objects and shapes within the software. The session also covered the creation of animations, with Khushal walking the students through the various tools and functionalities available in Blender that can enhance the animation process, such as rigging, keyframes, and rendering techniques. The session was attended by 12 students (10 male and 2 female) from the SY BVoc.(ST) batch.

Expected Outcome of the Activity:
The primary outcome of the session was to provide SY BVoc students with valuable knowledge of the different tools and features in Blender software, empowering them to create 3D models and animations effectively.