Prabodhanam commenced with an air of anticipation as students gathered for the SOCE Orientation, from 16 July to 21 July. The program began with Dr. Anjali Kalkar, Dean of SOCE, extending a warm and gracious welcome to every newcomer. In her opening address, Dr. Kalkar introduced the faculty, drawing attention to the program’s structure and its alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP), ensuring clarity and a sense of direction from the outset.

As the orientation progressed, students heard from a host of esteemed industry experts. Among them was Ms. Barakha Nigam, Assistant Manager at NISM, who delivered an enlightening talk titled “Go FinLit – Be Financially Literate for a Secured Future: Enlighten Learners.” Through her session, learners were equipped with essential financial literacy skills- indispensable for fulfilling both their personal and professional goals.

Another highlight of the event was Dr. Ashutosh Misal, Director of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) at Indira University, who led two deeply insightful sessions. In “Ensuring Sustainability – Torch for Your Future,” he emphasized the significance of sustainability. Then, in “IKS – Unveil the Treasure of Indian Knowledge,” Dr. Misal invited students to delve into the profound wisdom of Indian traditional knowledge systems.

Complementing the orientation was an immersive campus tour that allowed new students to explore the heart of SOCE – the library, labs, common areas, lecture halls, and more.

Mr. Hrushikesh Walvekar, a seasoned Senior Security Analyst specializing in the SOC marketplace, delivered a compelling session on the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence. Dr. Shikha Sindhu, the Controller of Examinations and Dean of IQAC – IU, addressed an eager group of learners with her talk on the importance of soft skills as a cornerstone for a successful professional journey. Dr. Punam Bhoyar, Director of NEP Implementation at IU, spoke passionately on the topic “NEP – Need of the Day.” She illuminated how the National Education Policy is not merely a reform but a pivotal framework guiding the evolution of education.

Adding an international perspective for commerce students, CA Ishika Biyani, CEO of IKKA EduTech Inspire, presented insights into the “International Scenario for Commerce Professionals” and explored the demands and opportunities within the global commerce landscape.

To balance the intellectual rigor, participants engaged in lively indoor management games that fostered strategic thinking, leadership, and collaboration in a playful yet purposeful environment. The orientation week also featured Quizone, an engaging commerce-focused quiz competition that tested students’ knowledge across business, finance, and economics.

Dr. Pallavi Sajanapwar, Dean of Academics & Research at IGSB, delivered an inspiring address titled “Unbox Zindagi – Facing the VUCA World” and guided students toward resilience and adaptability. Bringing profound perspective to the conversation about mental well-being, BK Laxmi Didi, Director of Shiv Shakti Bhawan, Brahma Kumaris, spoke on “Digital Wellness for Healthy Brain & Mind.” Her session shed light on our digitally saturated lives, offering mindful practices to foster mental clarity, reduce digital overload, and maintain internal harmony.

In a transformative session delivered by Ms. Geeta Poduval, Founder and Director of DRZYA, participants explored the essence of change in “Transformation Session.” Taking a holistic approach to well-being, freelance expert G. Lavanya addressed the audience on how to create a healthy lifestyle.

Shifting the focus to innovation, Dr. Dipanjay Bhalerao, Director of the Incubation Centre & Startup Mentor at Swakiyam—Centre for Incubation & Innovation, delivered a dynamic session on how even small ideas can spark transformation when nurtured with vision, strategy, and courage.

Throughout those six days, “Prabodhanam” truly lived up to its name—an illuminating passage. From foundational knowledge of the program to crucial financial insights, sustainability discussions, and cultural enrichment, every component of the orientation worked in harmony. By the final day, students had traversed a thoughtful progression from entry into the institution toward a broader vision of enlightenment, empowered and inspired to embark on their journey at SOCE.