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Yuva Tourism Clubs Meet

The Yuva Tourism Clubs Meet was held on September 26, 2024, at the prestigious Darbar Hall, Raj Bhawan, Goa, that was attended by 25 students from the college. Organized by the Tourism Department of Goa, the event aimed to promote youth engagement in tourism and raise awareness about the significance of sustainability within the tourism sector. The meet brought together students, educators, and key government dignitaries to discuss the potential of youth as changemakers in shaping the future of tourism in Goa.

The program commenced with a soulful rendition of a melodious song by a group of school students, which set a positive and uplifting tone for the day. Following this was a captivating traditional Goan folk dance performance that vividly showcased the rich cultural heritage and artistic vibrancy of the state.  Dressed in vibrant costumes, the performers brought to life the essence of Goa’s folklore, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience.

The event gained momentum with the arrival of Honorable Shri Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa. Greeted with a warm reception, Minister Khaunte shared his perspectives on the transformative power of tourism and its potential to enhance Goa’s cultural and economic landscape. He emphasized that for tourism to flourish sustainably, it is imperative to engage young minds and harness their creativity and enthusiasm. The Minister also spoke about various government initiatives aimed at promoting responsible tourism, which aligns with the broader goals of environmental preservation and cultural enrichment.

The highlight of the event was the arrival of the Honorable Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, whose presence added gravitas to the proceedings. In his keynote address, Dr. Sawant passionately spoke about the pivotal role of tourism in Goa’s economy, contributing significantly to employment, income generation, and community development. He lauded the efforts of the Yuva Tourism Clubs in creating awareness among the youth and nurturing a new generation of responsible and informed tourism advocates.

The Chief Minister stressed the importance of initiatives like the Yuva Tourism Clubs in engaging the younger generation in preserving the state’s unique cultural identity while simultaneously exploring innovative opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sectors. He highlighted that by involving the youth in the tourism ecosystem, the state can ensure that its rich heritage is cherished and sustained for future generations.

Expected Outcome of the Activity:

The event provided a platform for young students to voice their ideas and actively participate in discussions on sustainable tourism practices. The need for balancing tourism growth with ecological and cultural preservation, ensuring that tourism development does not compromise the natural and cultural wealth of the state.

M.Com Field Trip

The Post Graduate Department of Commerce organized one-day field trip for the students of M.Com Part-I and II on 27th September 2024 from 9:00 am to 4.30 pm.  A total of 48 students (22 male, 26 female), along with three M.Com faculty members, visited three significant destinations: Dharohar Museum in Panjim, Goa Waste Management Corporation in Saligao, and the Museum of Goa (MOG) in Pilerne.

Visit Details:

Dharohar Museum:The trip began with a visit to Dharohar Museum, a historical structure located on the banks of the Mandovi River, that has stood for over 400 years since the Portuguese era in Goa. This museum is the first of its kind, showcasing various artifacts seized by Indian Customs from across the country. Noteworthy items included a handwritten manuscript of the Ain-i-Akbari, a replica of Amin pillars, and various metal and stone artifacts. Additionally, the museum displayed antique coins, statues, endangered wildlife specimens, weapons, and narcotics. High-resolution images of these items were provided along with relevant information.

Museum of Goa (MOG): Next, at around 11:00 AM, the group visited the Museum of Goa (MOG), founded in 2015 by Goan artist Subodh Kerkar, it aims to enhance accessibility to art and local history, thereby fostering cultural connections. The museum not only showcases contemporary art but also serves as an educational venue, offering innovative storytelling approaches. Facilities include a cafeteria, a sculpture garden, and a Children’s Art Studio, allowing visitors to engage in artistic pursuits. MOG, which translates to “love” in Konkani, is committed to using love and empathy as tools for shaping the future. In addition to the exhibitions, MOG hosts workshops, lectures, and guided art tours, celebrating Goa’s rich history and diverse communities through contemporary artistic expression.

Goa Waste Management Corporation: The final visit was to the Goa Waste Management Corporation (GWMC) in Saligao at approximately 3:20 PM. Participants were shown a short video introducing the GWMC, which focuses on establishing and organizing facilities for the effective management of solid and other types of waste. The corporation aims to provide guidance and assistance to local bodies regarding technology and methodology, with a vision to create a Zero Waste Goa. Initiatives include the development of a solid waste management policy and a long-term plan for scientifically managing and handling garbage. The process of segregating dry and wet waste, as well as the ammonia content and equalization tank, was also demonstrated. Departure from the GWMC occurred around 4:00 PM, with arrival back at the college at 4:30 PM.

Expected Outcome of the Activity: 

The students gained insights into the cultural and historical significance of India’s rich heritage. The field trip provided an enriching experience, enhancing understanding of waste management processes and the significance of historical artifacts in the museums visited. The experience was both educational and enjoyable, and it highlighted the need for future participation in such activities to enhance students’ understanding of government initiatives and cultural preservation.

Cleanliness Awareness Drive

To commemorate NSS Day, the NSS Unit of VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics organized a Door-to-Door Cleanliness Awareness Drive on 24th and 25th September 2024. The drive’s objective was to instill the values of cleanliness and promote sustainable waste management practices among the local community in South Goa.

As part of the drive, each volunteer was assigned to visit five houses in their neighbourhood with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of cleanliness. The volunteers engaged with residents on crucial topics such as the significance of maintaining cleanliness in and around their homes, the importance of segregating wet and dry waste for effective disposal, the harmful effects of single-use plastic and the encouragement of using eco-friendly alternatives, and the significance of adopting proper waste disposal methods to prevent environmental degradation. The residents responded positively, with many expressing their appreciation for the initiative and their willingness to adopt better waste management and cleanliness practices.

The event was coordinated by faculty members Mr. Sanjay Velip (NSS PO-Incharge), Mr. Ainsley Bernard (NSS PO), Ms. Akshada Gaonkar (NSS PO), Ms. Kalpana Parab (NSS PO), Ms. Puja Gaonkar (NSS PO).  A total of 17 NSS volunteers participated in the drive with enthusiasm, contributing to the success of the event

Expected Outcome of the Activity

The Cleanliness Awareness Drive successfully raised community awareness about cleanliness and environmental sustainability. It encouraged residents to adopt better waste management practices, particularly through the segregation of wet and dry waste, and promoted the reduction of single-use plastics by advocating for eco-friendly alternatives, fostering a more sustainable and environmentally conscious mindset.

Cleanliness Drive at Seraulim Village (Adopted Village)

On 23rd September 2024, the NSS Unit of VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce and Economics organized a Cleanliness Drive in Seraulim Village, the institution’s adopted village, as part of the Swachhta Hi Seva Campaign. This initiative aimed to promote hygiene and environmental awareness while improving the cleanliness of public spaces within the village. A total of 65 students (30 male, 35 female) participated enthusiastically in this initiative, accompanied by faculty members, Mr. Sanjay Velip (NSS Program Officer – Incharge), Ms. Akshada Gaonkar (NSS Program Officer), and Ms. Kalpana Parab (NSS Program Officer).

The drive began with a brief orientation where participants were introduced to the the campaign’s objectives and the importance of maintaining cleanliness. Equipped with gloves, trash bags, and cleaning supplies, the volunteers spread out across various parts of the village, including parks, roadsides, and community spaces that had accumulated significant waste.

As the volunteers collected litter and debris, they engaged in meaningful discussions about the importance of sanitation and hygiene. These conversations were aimed to raise awareness about the health risks posed by improper waste disposal and the negative environmental impact of littering. By fostering dialogue, the NSS Unit encouraged a sense of responsibility among the villagers to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings.

The efforts of the volunteers led to a noticeable improvement in the village’s cleanliness, with significant amounts of waste being responsibly disposed of. This initiative not only improved the aesthetics of Seraulim but also instilled a sense of pride among the participants and encouraged villagers to commit to ongoing cleanliness efforts.

Overall, the cleanliness drive effectively highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship and community service. It demonstrated how collective efforts can lead to meaningful improvements in local environments, fostering a deeper understanding of hygiene and sustainability among participants.

Expected Outcome of the Activity:

The Cleanliness Drive is expected to foster a lasting commitment to cleanliness and hygiene among the residents of Seraulim Village. It aims to reduce littering and enhance environmental awareness while inspiring future community-driven initiatives focused on sustainability. Ultimately, this initiative will contribute to a healthier, cleaner, and more vibrant local environment for all.

Cleanliness Drive at Colva Beach

In commemoration of International Coastal Day, the NSS Unit of VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce and Economics organized a Cleanliness Drive at Colva Beach on 23rd September 2024 from 10:00 am onwards. The objective of the initiative was to raise awareness about coastal conservation and promote environmental sustainability among students.

The event commenced with a comprehensive orientation session, during which volunteers were briefed on the importance of maintaining clean coastlines and the detrimental effects of pollution on marine ecosystems. After the briefing, participants were divided into teams to maximize their impact, and they enthusiastically set out to collect litter from the beach. Equipped with gloves and trash bags, the volunteers meticulously gathered a substantial amount of waste, including plastic bottles, wrappers, and other litter that had accumulated along the shore, transforming the shoreline and restoring its natural beauty.

This initiative not only helped enhance the local environment but also served as an educational experience for the volunteers, illustrating the urgent need for proper waste disposal practices and highlighting the significance of protecting coastal ecosystems. The collective effort underscored the pressing issues of pollution and its harmful effects on marine life, leaving participants with a renewed sense of responsibility towards environmental stewardship. The success of the cleanliness drive demonstrated the power of community action and the pivotal role individuals can play in safeguarding our planet’s coastal areas.

A total of 65 students (30 male, 35 female) participated in the cleanliness drive at Colva Beach, accompanied by faculty members Mr. Sanjay Velip (NSS PO-Incharge), Ms. Akshada Gaonkar (NSS PO) and Ms. Kalpana Parab (NSS PO).

Expected Outcome of the Activity:

The expected outcomes of the cleanliness drive include increased awareness among participants about the importance of coastal conservation and a commitment to adopting environmentally friendly practices in their daily lives. Additionally, the event aims to foster community engagement and inspire future initiatives focused on sustainability and environmental awareness.

An Extension Activity- Cyber Crime Awareness

The Department of Computer Science of VVM’ Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics, under the guidance of faculty in-charge Asst. Prof. Sneha Prabhudessai and Asst. Prof. Rakshavi Dessai, organized a Cyber Crime Awareness Extension Activity on 21st September 2024 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM. This initiative, in collaboration with the Mahila Mandal, was held at Damodar High School in Margao. The primary goal was to educate high school students about cyber safety and the risks associated with cybercrimes. The activity consisted of an informative presentation and a street play, both designed to engage and educate the students. The street play, conceptualized and directed by Ms. Rama Borkar, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science, effectively highlighted the consequences of unsafe online behavior and the importance of staying vigilant in the digital world. A total of 12 BCA/BVoc.(ST) students (6 Male, 6 Female) organized the street play.

Participating Students:

Anushree Shirodkar – SY BCA, Div A
Nidhi Nagvenkar – SY BCA, Div A
Sparsh Hede – SY BCA, Div B
Daksh Lotlikar – SY BCA, Div A
Esha Thapa – SY BCA, Div A
Shaina Kamat – SY B.Voc(ST)
Arya Naik – FY BCA, Div B
Sharv Lotlikar – FY BCA, Div B
Shlok Kunkolienkar – FY BCA, Div B
Trushank Prabhudessai – FY BCA, Div A
Seval Naik – FY BCA, Div A
Aishwarya Nayak – FY BCA, Div B

Expected Outcome of the Activity:

The primary objectives of this activity were to enhance students’ awareness of cybercrimes and the importance of online safety. By educating them about the various risks associated with the digital world, the initiative aimed to promote safe online practices and encourage responsible behavior on the internet. The activity also sought to engage and educate students through an interactive street play and an informative presentation, making the learning experience both enjoyable and impactful. Overall, the initiative successfully empowered high school students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

Session on “Safeguarding Our Digital Future: An Introduction to Cyber Security”

The Department of Computer Science, in collaboration with Career Training Internship Placement (CTIP) Cell and TechTrendz Club, under the guidance of faculty in-charge Mr. Sameer Patil, Ms. Samira Vengurlekar, Mr. Amogh Pai Raiturkar and Ms. Yugandhara Joshi successfully organized a session on “Safeguarding Our Digital Future: An Introduction to Cybersecurity” on 21st September 2024, between 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM, in Hall1, Central Block of the college.

The session’s objective was to raise awareness among students about the growing importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age and to provide them with basic knowledge and tools to safeguard their online presence.

The session was conducted by Mr. Nikhil Malagi, an expert in the field of cybersecurity and Managing Director of Balchandra Technologies. He commenced the session with an introduction to the critical role of cybersecurity in the increasingly interconnected digital world.

Key topics covered during the session included:

Cyber Threats and Vulnerabilities: Malagi elaborated on different types of cyber threats such as phishing, malware, and ransomware, providing real-life examples to illustrate their impact.
Best Practices for Online Safety: He shared essential tips for securing personal and professional data online, including the use of strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and secure browsing habits.
The Role of Cyber Security in Business: Malagi discussed how organizations are heavily investing in cyber security measures to protect their data and highlighted the importance of ethical hacking and penetration testing in keeping systems secure.
Career Opportunities in Cyber Security: Toward the end, the speaker emphasized the growing demand for cyber security professionals and provided insights on how students can build a career in this field.

Students raised various questions related to password management, the role of AI in cyber security, and potential job opportunities in the field. Mr. Malagi provided detailed and insightful responses, encouraging students to stay informed about the latest trends and tools in cybersecurity.

The session proved to be highly informative and practical, with active participation from all 68 students (42 male, 26 female) from various programmes. Mr. Malagi successfully imparted essential knowledge on cyber security, leaving the attendees with a strong understanding of how to protect their digital assets. The feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive. Shaina Kamat hosted the session, and Nidhi Nagvekar proposed the vote of thanks.

Expected Outcome of the Activity:

The session on cyber security enhanced students’ awareness of the importance of online security in their personal and professional lives, highlighting potential risks and protective measures. They gained knowledge of various cyber threats like phishing, malware, and ransomware, and learned how to identify and prevent them. Practical tips such as creating strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication were provided to improve their online safety. The session sparked increased interest in cyber security careers, with many students exploring fields like ethical hacking and penetration testing. Students were empowered to take immediate action to secure their digital presence and expressed positive feedback, with a strong interest in further learning, internships, and certifications in cybersecurity.

Alma Mater Series session on “Mutual Funds: Building Your Financial Future with Smart Investments”

The Department of Commerce & Management in collaboration with Alumni Engagement Cell organized an Alma Mater Series session titled “Mutual Funds: Building Your Financial Future with Smart Investments” on 20th September 2024, between 9.00 am to 10.00 am in Classroom No. F-104, which aimed to provide students with insights on building financially secure future through smart investments. The session began with the introduction of the resource person, Ms. Siddha Prabhu Bhatikar, alumni of the college and an AMFI-registered mutual fund distributor, by the compere Ms. Abigayle Rodrigues, a TY Bcom student.

Ms. Bhatikar initiated the session with a discussion on the significance of savings and investments. She threw a light on cultivating a savings and investment mindset early in life. She explained the concept of mutual funds, their operational modes, and the benefits of investing in them. He also offered valuable investor tips to students including developing diversified portfolio, goal setting, all of which will greatly aid students in the future. The resource person also shared valuable tips for investors, including the importance of building a diversified portfolio and setting clear financial goals. A total of 58 (27 male, 31 female) students engaged actively, learning how mutual funds can play a key role in stabilizing their financial future. The session concluded with Ms. Bhatikar addressing queries from the students.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Ms. Apoorva Manikyala, a TY B.Com student, while Vice-Principal (Administration) Dr. Shami Pai and Asst. Prof. Prashanti Bhamaikar coordinated the session.

Expected Outcome of the Activity:

The objective of the session was achieved because at the end of the session student were motivated to develop the habit of savings and investing in mutual funds. They gained practical knowledge on selecting suitable mutual fund schemes according to their budget and long-term financial goals, equipping them to make informed financial decisions in the future.

One Day State-Level Research Paper Presentation Competition

On 21st September 2024, the Department of Economics at Dempo Charities Trusts’s Srinivassa Sinai Dempo College of Commerce and Economics, Cujira, Bambolim, organized a One Day State-level Research Paper Presentation Competition on the topic “Thrust Areas of Union Budget 2024-2025” for undergraduate and postgraduate students from various colleges. The event held in the college’s AV room commenced at 9:30 a.m. with an inaugural ceremony addressed by Prof. Deepali Churi, Head of the Department of Economics. She congratulated all the participants for their diligent efforts in preparing the research papers and wished them success for the presentations.

The competition featured 23 participating teams, with each team assigned a code name to ensure anonymity during the evaluation process. The objective was to shortlist 6 teams for further consideration, with the top 3 papers being awarded in the final round. The first round of presentations, lasting a little over an hour, saw each team present their research, with most participants relying on primary data for their analysis. Following each presentation, judges Dr. Trupti Dinanath Chodankar and Asst. Prof. Amit Naik engaged participants in a Q&A session, probing deeper into their research findings.

Following a brief break, the second round of the event commenced, with Prof. Ravindranath Naik joining as a judge, alongside several other dignitaries. The event provided an excellent platform for students to showcase their research skills and engage in discussions on critical economic issues related to the Union Budget 2024-2025. A significant focus of many presentations was the issue of employment and skill development.

At the conclusion of the presentations, the college principal addressed the audience, offering words of encouragement, followed by remarks from the chief guest and other faculty members. In the final announcement, the students of VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce and Economics, Vaibhav Vijay Girap and Sheryl Francisca Antao, students of MCom Part-II, were awarded the Best Research Paper Award. They were guided by Asst. Prof. Ms. Edrea Picardo from the Post Graduate Department of Commerce.

Expected Outcome of the Activity

The key takeaways from this event would be that how research presentations are typically conducted at the collegiate level, including the schedule and format. It boosted the participants’ confidence and presentation skills, offering them insight into the quality of work expected from such events. Moreover, the Q&A sessions were particularly beneficial, as they encouraged participants to think critically and engage with the subject matter on a deeper level.

Guest Lecture on “Creating Wealth Through Equity Investments”

The Post Graduate Department of Commerce at VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce and Economics organized a guest lecture on “Creating Wealth Through Equity Investments” on 19th September 2024 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM in the Smart Classroom. The lecture was aimed at enhancing students’ practical understanding of Capital Markets and Stock Exchange Operations A total of 48 M.Com Part-I and Part-II students (17 male, 31 female) attended the session.

The guest speaker, Ms. Manalee Verenkar, Founder of Financial Wisdom and a member of the BNI Group (MoU partner of the college), was introduced by M.Com Part-I student Ms. Deepika Kholar. Asst. Prof. Ms. Edrea Picardo opened the session by highlighting the key takeaways, setting the stage for an insightful discussion on financial planning.

Ms. Manalee began by discussing investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of wise saving, spending, and the concept of compounding. She engaged the audience with questions to stimulate discussion and clarified the distinctions between investment and savings, illustrating their roles in effective financial planning. She also provided insights on early-stage investments, detailing how individuals can set and achieve their financial objectives. Additionally, she explained Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) in mutual funds, using examples and a short video to demonstrate compounding’s benefits.

The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, where Ms. Manalee addressed student inquiries and resolved their doubts. Ms. Anmaria Jose, a M.Com Part-I student, expressed gratitude to Ms. Verenkar for her valuable insights, effectively wrapping up the event.

Expected Outcome of the Activity:

The session aimed to improve students’ financial literacy by offering practical knowledge on equity investments, savings, and early financial planning. Participants were expected to gain insights into mutual funds, SIPs, and the significance of compounding. The session sought to empower students to make informed financial decisions, establish realistic financial goals, and gain confidence in managing their personal finances.