Student Orientation and Induction Program (Day 7 – Session 1)
Day 7: Session 1 – 17th August, 2023 [11:00 AM – 12:00 PM]
Topic – Innovation and Entrepreneurship in academics
Speaker: Dr. Santosh Bothe
Dr. Santosh Bothe, the principal of Saraswati College was cordially welcomed by Prof. Piyush Dalke honouring him with memento and shawl as tokens of respect. He commenced his engaging session by showcasing a series of pictures depicting Indian ‘jugaad’ – the art of resourceful improvisation.
With a captivating start, he delved into the thought-provoking notion that Indians are inherently innovative, but tend to transition into employee roles after completing their degrees. He emphasized that cultivating patience and honing skills are paramount in this journey. He explored the concept of entrepreneurship through vivid examples, highlighting that innovation gains true value when it is rooted in genuine need.
Drawing from a broader perspective, he introduced the audience to the 17 universal targets encompassing humanity. He encouraged students to immerse themselves in practical projects during their final academic year, supporting his advice with real-life instances. Addressing the strengths and limitations of academia, he provided insights on balancing various facets of student life with a structured daily plan.
He engaged the attendees in discussing the problems outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and stirred motivation for them to proactively seek solutions. He thoughtfully shared existing remedies and focused particularly on the challenges faced by rural regions. Transitioning to his own institution, he elaborated on the 30 on-going projects centred on vital areas.
Diving into the educational landscape, he explained the current scenario and unveiled his own projects that were in the expanding stages. A comprehensive overview of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 followed, further enriching the audience’s understanding of the evolving educational paradigm.
In conclusion, his session was a dynamic blend of inspiration, practicality, and visionary thinking. The journey embarked upon through innovative thinking and ethical entrepreneurship was illuminated, setting a vibrant tone for the audience to consider and act upon in their own pursuits.
