Organized by

Department of Artificial Intelligence, Vishwakarma University, Pune

Objective

The session aims to provide undergraduate students with first-hand insights into academic pathways, projects, and career opportunities through interactions with successful alumni. By engaging with alumni who have pursued higher education in leading universities abroad, students will gain valuable guidance on project development, the application process for master’s programs, and strategies to make the most of their B. Tech journey. The mentorship session seeks to inspire students to plan their academic and professional futures with clarity and confidence.

Date: 3^rd October 2025

Venue: Zoom Platform

Mode: Online

Participants

The session is open to all B. Tech students across departments of Science and Technology.

Resource Persons / Speakers

1. Prathamesh Suhas Uravane
   MS in Applied Machine Learning
   University of Maryland, College Park
2. Vendat Vinay Ganthade
   MS in Robotics (AI)
   Arizona State University

Report

The Department of Artificial Intelligence, Vishwakarma University, Pune, organized an Alumni Mentorship Session on 3rd October 2025 in online mode. The session featured two distinguished alumni, Mr. Prathamesh Suhas Uravane, pursuing an MS in Applied Machine Learning at the University of Maryland, College Park, and Mr. Vedant Vinay Ganthade, pursuing an MS in Robotics (AI) at Arizona State University. The event was coordinated by Prof. Jayendra Jadhav under the guidance of Dr. Pavitha Nooji, HoD of Artificial intelligence Department, Faculty of Science and Technology.

The speakers highlighted the importance of making the most of the academic curriculum by building strong foundations in mathematics, programming, and AI/ML concepts. They stressed that students should focus not only on grades but also on developing problem-solving skills and practical knowledge. Both alumni emphasized that projects play a vital role in shaping a student’s career, advising participants to take up impactful academic and industry projects that solve real-world problems.

A significant part of the discussion focused on preparing for postgraduate studies abroad. The alumni explained the essentials of the application process, including exams, Statements of Purpose, and Letters of Recommendation. They shared personal experiences of challenges faced while studying abroad and encouraged students to align university choices with career aspirations rather than rankings alone.

The session also explored industry trends and emerging opportunities in AI and robotics. The speakers advised students to acquire multidisciplinary skills, gain experience with programming and cloud platforms, and stay updated with evolving areas such as Generative AI, Explainable AI, and Edge AI.

The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where students received practical tips on academic planning, applications, and career readiness. Overall, the session was insightful and motivating, helping students understand how to leverage academics, projects, and global opportunities to shape their future with clarity and confidence.

Conveners

Prof. (Dr.) Kailas Patil

Dean, Faculty of Science & Technology

Prof. (Dr.) Yuvraj Lahoti

Director, Alumni & Outreach

Co-conveners

Dr. Sandip Thite

Associate Dean, Faculty of Science & Technology

Dr. Pavitha Nooji

Head, Department of Artificial Intelligence

Coordinator

Prof. Jayendra Jadhav

Department of Artificial Intelligence

Gandhi Jayanti, 2 Oct 2025 Celebration

“Plant a Tree, Nurture Life, Sustain the Future!”

Activity Name: Tree Plantation Drive 

Activity Date: 30^th Sep 2025

Location: Taljai Hills, Pune

The School of Pharmacy, Vishwakarma University, Pune in collaboration with Centre of Sustainability Nexus, organized and conducted a Tree Plantation Drive at Taljai Hills, Pune, planting native saplings to enhance green cover, restore biodiversity, and raise awareness about environmental conservation. This initiative contributes to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by mitigating climate change, SDG 15 (Life on Land) by supporting ecosystems, and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by promoting greener, healthier urban spaces, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

The Activity is conducted by Prof. Snehal Hase (Co-ordinator, Faculty of Pharmacy) under the guidance of Dr. Jaymala Kumawat (Convener, Director, Centre for Sustainability Nexus) and Prof. Sweety Thakkar (Co-Convener, Deputy Director, Centre for Sustainability Nexus) with the special support and motivation from Dr. Sunitha Sampathi (Convener, Dean, School of Pharmacy) and the students of School of Pharmacy Vishwakarma University, Pune in collaboration with Centre of Sustainability Nexus, Vishwakarma University, Pune.

Theme: Tourism and Sustainable Transformation
Dates: 25th – 27th September 2025

Organized by: Department of Travel & Tourism, Vishwakarma University, Pune
In Collaboration with: Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

1. Introduction
World Tourism Day (WTD) is celebrated annually on 27th September to foster awareness about
the role of tourism within the international community and its impact on social, cultural, political,
and economic values. This year’s global theme declared by UNWTO was “Tourism and
Sustainable Transformation ”
The Department of Travel & Tourism, Vishwakarma University, celebrated this occasion as a
three-day commemorative event with a series of engaging, interactive, and impactful activities
designed to promote sustainable and responsible tourism among students and stakeholders in
collaboration with Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

2. Objectives of the Event
• To create awareness about sustainable tourism practices.
• To engage students in innovative competitions highlighting tourism and environment.
• To encourage creative expression through digital media and debates.
• To promote green action through tree plantation.
• To strengthen collaboration with industry experts and tourism stakeholders.

3. Event Schedule & Activities
Day 1: 25th September 2025
Sessions by Guest Speakers & Sustainable Travel Hackathon
• Inspiring sessions were conducted by industry experts on sustainable tourism.
• A Sustainable Travel Hackathon challenged student teams to present 5-minute pitches
on designing a sustainable weekend travel itinerary.

• Criteria included: zero-waste packing, eco-stays, local food, and public transport.
• Jury Members: Ms. Payal Durve (Coordinator, Western Routes) and Dr aarti
Suryawanshi .
• Outcome: Students showcased innovative, practical, and eco-friendly itineraries,
reflecting their awareness and creativity.
Reel Making Competition
• Students submitted short reels on themes such as Sustainable Tourism, Hidden Heritage,
and Green Corners of their City.
• Jury Member: Mr. Prajwal Kale (Founder, TourPic).
• Outcome: The reels captured strong visual messages on sustainability and cultural
preservation.

Day 2: 26th September 2025
Debate Competition
• Topic: “Is Tourism a Luxury or a necessity in the present world ”
• Students actively participated, presenting arguments for both perspectives.
• Outcome: The debate enhanced critical thinking, research, and presentation skills,
fostering awareness about tourism’s dual impacts.
Photography Competition
• Theme: “Greener frames for Tomorrow”
• Students presented photographs highlighting eco-friendly practices, wildlife, and
responsible travel.
• Outcome: The event combined creativity with awareness-building, encouraging visual
storytelling.
Sustainability Wall – Interactive Pledge Board
• Students wrote pledges, quotes, and doodles on “How can tourism protect the planet?”
• Outcome: A vibrant, collaborative wall of commitments was created as a visual reminder
of collective responsibility.

Day 3: 27th September 2025
Visit to Raigad Fort and community engagement

4. Outcomes of the Event
• Enhanced student awareness and engagement with sustainable tourism concepts.
• Strengthened linkages between academia and industry experts through jury and guest
sessions.
• Promoted creative expression via reels, photography, and debate.
• Created a tangible environmental impact through tree plantation.
• Fostered a sense of responsibility and commitment towards the environment among
participants.
List of Winners
Sustainable Travel Hackathon Competition
Participants
1) Pournima Balerao [Vishwakarma University Pune]
2) Anushka Hinge [Vishwakarma University Pune]
3) Vaishnavi Patil [Vishwakarma University Pune]
4) Prajwal Balpande [Vishwakarma University Pune]
5) Rishi Venkat [Vishwakarma University Pune]
6) Rashida Teliya [Vishwakarma University Pune]
7) Ruth Chinyama [Vishwakarma University Pune]
Winners
1st- Anushka Hinge & Vaishnavi Patil
2nd- Ruth Chinyama & Rishi Venkat
Reel Making
Participants
1) Bhakti Chavan [Zeal College]
2) Vishi Jain [Vishwakarma University Pune]
3) Kartiki Dudhgaonkar [Vishwakarma University Pune]
4) Prajwal Balpande [Vishwakarma University Pune]
Winners
1st- Vishi Jain
2nd - Kartiki Dudhgaonkar & Bhakti Chavan

Debate Competition
Participants
1) Shewta Soibam[Vishwakarma University Pune]

2) Tawanda Anthony Ndoro [Vishwakarma University Pune]
3) Mercy Tatiana Magwaza[Vishwakarma University Pune]
4) Kartiki Dudhgaonkar [Vishwakarma University Pune]
5) Vishi Jain [Vishwakarma University Pune]
Winners
1st- Mercy Tatiana Magwaza
2nd - Shewta Soibam & Vishi Jain
Photography
1) Dilip Chaudhari [Vishwakarma University Pune]
2) Priyanka Chavan [Vishwakarma University Pune]
3) Mario Cetric Pimenta [Don Bosco college Panjim,Goa]
4) Prajwal Balpande [Vishwakarma University Pune]
5) Vishi Jain [Vishwakarma University Pune]
6) Kartiki Dudhgaonkar [Vishwakarma University Pune]
7) Ruth Chinyama [Vishwakarma University Pune]
8) Utkarsha Shinde [Vishwakarma University Pune]
Winners
1st- Ruth Chinyama
2nd- Prajwal Balpande & Priyanka Chavan

Date of Activity: 10^th Sept 2025

Location: Shree Shivchhatrapati Prathamik Madhyamik Vidhyalaya, Kondhwa, Pune

The School of Pharmacy, Vishwakarma University, Pune, in collaboration with Shree Shivchhatrapati Prathamik Madhyamik Vidhyalaya, Kondhwa, organized an Anti-Suicidal Day Awareness Programme on the theme “Creating Hope Through Action” to mark World Suicide Prevention Day (10^th September 2025).

Highlights of the activities:

• Expert talks on mental health, stress management, and coping strategies
• Motivational skits performed by students
• Interactive sessions to reduce stigma and encourage peer support
• Distribution of awareness pamphlets among school children

The drive sensitized students (Classes 8th–10th) on the importance of mental well-being, promoted resilience and positive thinking, and emphasized seeking timely help. It also involved final-year B. Pharm students in meaningful community mental health service, aligning with SDG 3: Good Health & Well-being and SDG 4: Quality Education.

The activity was conducted by Prof. Pallavi Kale and Prof. Shital Godse (Coordinators) with the support and motivation from our Dean Prof. (Dr.) Sunitha Sampathi (Convenor) and enthusiastic participation of the students of the School of Pharmacy, Vishwakarma University, Pune.

Organized by National Education Policy: Student Ambassador for Academic Reforms in

Transforming Higher Education in India (NEP SAARTHI) and NEP Team at

Vishwakarma University, Pune

POSTER COMPETITION REPORT ACADEMIC YEAR 2025-26

Introduction:

Neural Canvas 2025 was organized as a creative and engaging platform for students to express their ideas

through design while integrating Artificial Intelligence concepts. With a mix of inaugural activities, a quiz,

and a poster-making competition, the event promoted teamwork, innovation, and cross-disciplinary interaction

among students.

Objectives:

The primary objectives of the Neural Canvas Poster Competition:

• To promote creativity and innovation by blending AI concepts with design.
• To encourage teamwork, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• To provide students with a platform for showcasing their design and technical abilities

Event Overview and Key Highlights:

The event began with a warm welcome followed by the Inaugural Ceremony, which included the Lighting ofthe Lamp, introduction of dignitaries. A QR Code Quiz engaged students before the poster-making competition commenced. The competition saw active participation, with students designing posters using Figma and later presenting their ideas to a jury. The top 3 winners and 2 runner-ups were awarded, followed by acknowledgments and a valedictory ceremony.

Schedule of the event

Participation Overview:

Judges

Winners

1. Quiz Winners

2. Poster Making Competition:

Samarth Kamtam & Chaitanya K

5th Place - Runner Up

Outcomes:

The event successfully achieved its objectives of fostering creativity, innovation, and student engagement by integrating Artificial Intelligence concepts with design. With enthusiastic

participation, engaging activities,and excellent feedback ratings, the event not only provided a platform for showcasing talent but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and multidisciplinary learning.

Feedback and Impact Measurement

Feedback was collected from participants to assess event organization, session quality, and engagement. The majority rated the event as excellent, with an average score of 4.5+/5 across different parameters. Students highlighted the quiz and poster-making competition as the most engaging parts. Suggestions included organizing more frequent design-focused and AI-integrated activities. Overall, the responses reflected high satisfaction and eagerness to participate in future NEP 2020 events

Conclusion

Neural Canvas – Poster Competition 2025 proved to be a grand success by achieving its objectives of creativity, innovation, and student engagement. The event provided students with both creative exposure and technical learning, marking an important milestone for the University.

Organizing Team

• Dr. Madhvi Saxena – Convenor
• Prof. (Dr.) Kedar Sant – Organizing Chairperson
• Abdul Hannan Dalal – NEP SAARTHI (Coordinator)

• Sifat Patel – NEP SAARTHI

• Purab Ganguli – NEP SAARTHI

• Gargee Deshpande – NEP SAARTHI

• Sanskriti Kopkar – NEP SAARTHI

• Anuj Jaiswal – NEP SAARTHI

Organized by National Education Policy: Student Ambassador for Academic Reforms in

Transforming Higher Education in India (NEP SAARTHI) and NEP Team at

Vishwakarma University, Pune

ACADEMIC YEAR 2025-26

Introduction:

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a landmark reform in India’s educational landscape,fostering holistic, multidisciplinary, and skill-based learning. To commemorate its launch and strengthen awareness, Vishwakarma University, Pune, in collaboration with NEP SAARTHI, organized a five-day Awareness Rally from 25th–29th August 2025. As part of this rally, awareness on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) was also provided to students. The official IKS presentation was shared with all students via email for their record and reference.

Objectives:

The primary objectives of the IKS based Awareness Rally were:

• To spread awareness among students, faculty, and society about the reforms introduced under NEP 2020.

• To engage youth as active ambassadors of NEP 2020 through rallies, placards, and creative activities.

• To encourage collaborative participation among diverse faculties.
• To strengthen Vishwakarma University’s visibility as a frontrunner in NEP 2020 implementation.
• To inspire discussions on how NEP 2020 can transform higher education into a student-centric, innovation-driven system.

• To raise awareness of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and its relevance across disciplines.

Day-wise Schedule:

Participation Overview:

• NEP SAARTHIs: 6 student ambassadors (allotted by UGC) conducted the rally.
• Student Participation: 300+ students from all faculties of Vishwakarma University actively took part.
• Faculty Engagement: Active involvement from Science & Technology, Commerce & Management,Journalism & Mass Communication, Architecture & Design, and Economics faculties.

• IKS Awareness: Students engaged with IKS concepts and received the official presentation by emailfor future reference.

Outcomes:

• Enhanced Awareness: Students and faculty gained deeper insights into NEP 2020 reforms.
• IKS Learning: Students were introduced to the significance of Indian Knowledge Systems in modern education.

• Youth Empowerment: Students acted as ambassadors for NEP, leading creative awareness activities. Collaboration: Faculties worked together, fostering interdisciplinary engagement.

• Visibility: Positioned Vishwakarma University as a leader in NEP 2020 promotion and IKS integration.

Conclusion:

The NEP 2020 Awareness Rally successfully bridged the gap between policy and practice by engaging students, faculty, and the community in a participatory manner. By integrating Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) awareness into the rally and sharing the official presentation with students by email, the initiative ensured continuity of learning and cultural enrichment. Conducted by six UGC-allotted NEP SAARTHIs, the event saw active participation from over 300 students, reinforcing the significance of student-led initiatives in educational reforms.

Organizing Team

• Dr. Madhvi Saxena – Convenor
• Prof. (Dr.) Kedar Sant – Organizing Chairperson
• Abdul Hannan Dalal – NEP SAARTHI (Coordinator)
• Sifat Patel – NEP SAARTHI
• Purab Ganguli – NEP SAARTHI
• Gargee Deshpande – NEP SAARTHI
• Sanskriti Kopkar – NEP SAARTHI
• Anuj Jaiswal – NEP SAARTHI