Seminar on ChatGPT
On 1st August 2024, St. Vincent College, Pune, hosted a guest lecture titled “What’s Really Happening Behind ChatGPT? & Its Use Cases in Day-to-Day Life” for first-year B.Com Mass Communication students. Organized by College.dev in the library’s Digital Lab at 8:15 a.m., the session explored the technology powering ChatGPT—covering Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPT), Natural Language Processing (NLP), and machine learning. Students learned how ChatGPT differs from rule-based chatbots and its real-world applications in content creation, research, email drafting, customer service, and digital marketing. The talk also addressed AI’s impact on media and journalism, along with ethical concerns like bias, misinformation, and data privacy. Attendance was mandatory, and students actively participated in a Q&A on AI’s role in communication, job displacement, and verifying AI-generated content.
NSS Students in Partition Remembrance Day Workshop in SP College, Pune
On 2nd August 2025, five NSS volunteers from St. Vincent College, Pune, attended the workshop “Partition Horrors Remembrance Day: A Day of Remembrance and Reflection” at S.P. College, Pune. Held in observance of the annual 14th August commemoration, the event honored the victims of the 1947 Partition through tributes, expert talks, documentary screenings, and survivor testimonies. It aimed to educate youth about the trauma of Partition—marked by violence, displacement, and loss—and to promote peace, unity, and communal harmony. The St. Vincent students actively engaged in discussions and reflective activities, culminating in a collective pledge to uphold empathy, social cohesion, and national integration.
The College Newsletter STREAMS officially launched for 2025-26
The College Newsletter, titled “STREAMS”, was officially launched at the beginning of August 2025, marking a significant milestone in the academic and communicative initiatives of St. Vincent College, Pune. Introduced as a dynamic platform for information and engagement, STREAMS is dedicated to the academic year 2025–26 and aims to keep students, faculty, alumni, and other stakeholders well-informed about the diverse activities, achievements, and developments within the college community. The launch of the newsletter reflects the institution’s commitment to fostering transparency, strengthening institutional memory, and enhancing connectivity across its growing network. STREAMS serves as a comprehensive chronicle of college life, featuring updates on academic programs, co-curricular and extracurricular events, NSS and student body activities, student achievements, faculty research, guest lectures, workshops, and cultural festivals. Its name—STREAMS—symbolizes the continuous flow of knowledge, ideas, and experiences that define the vibrant academic environment of the college.
Health Drive organized in College by NSS and MTVM
On 4th & 5th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, in collaboration with Meera Hospital, NSS, and MTVM, organized a two-day “Health Checkup Drive and Awareness” program. The initiative offered medical screenings and expert-led sessions on physical, mental, and emotional well-being, with a focus on hygiene, nutrition, substance abuse, women’s health, and the psychological impact of social media. Separate interactive discussions for boys and girls ensured a safe space for open dialogue. Medical professionals conducted checkups and dispelled health myths, while nursing staff and hospital coordinators ensured smooth execution. The drive underscored the college’s commitment to holistic student development and received enthusiastic feedback for its supportive, informative approach.
Seminar on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Conducted by Sambhav Foundation, Pune
On 6th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, in collaboration with the Sambhav Foundation, organized an engaging seminar on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students across disciplines, especially Mass Communication, Commerce, and Computer Applications. Led by AI educator Ms. Shubhangi of Sambhav Foundation, the session introduced foundational AI concepts, differentiated AI from automation and machine learning, and illustrated its real-world applications through examples like voice assistants, recommendation systems, and tools such as ChatGPT and DALL·E.
Ms. Shubhangi highlighted AI’s transformative role in media, education, healthcare, and marketing, emphasizing its relevance to content creation, analytics, and storytelling for communication students. She also addressed ethical concerns—including bias, deepfakes, and job displacement—and urged responsible, critical engagement with AI.
The seminar featured live demos of AI tools for text and image generation, a dynamic Q&A on topics like AI in journalism and academic integrity, and a group activity where students proposed AI-driven solutions for social good. The session concluded with resource handouts and praise for the students’ thoughtful participation.
Seminar on Entrepreneurship by Action DNA
On 7th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, hosted an entrepreneurship seminar for F.Y.B.Com and S.Y.B.Com students, organized by Action DNA. Led by facilitator Ms. Damini Gaikwad, the two-hour session in the college auditorium introduced core entrepreneurial concepts—such as identifying opportunities, market research, customer validation, and business model essentials—using relatable examples from local startups.
Ms. Gaikwad contrasted entrepreneurship with traditional employment, emphasized vital soft skills like resilience and adaptability, and debunked myths like the need for large capital, highlighting low-cost startup possibilities. The session included a group activity where students brainstormed solutions to hypothetical business scenarios and covered government support schemes and digital marketing tools. Designed to broaden career perspectives, the seminar sparked strong engagement and will be followed by workshops on business planning and digital entrepreneurship.
Cup of Joy tournament organised for the students, staff alumni and Jesuit community
On 15th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, celebrated Independence Day with the “Cup of Joy Tournament,” a 7-a-side football event fostering community spirit among students, staff, alumni, and the Jesuit community. Organized by faculty member Mr. Ignatius Peter, the knockout-format tournament featured six teams—senior and junior students, college staff, two alumni groups, and a Jesuit team—and ran throughout the day following the cultural program.
Matches were adapted for friendly play, with refereeing by PE staff and student volunteers, and safety measures like first aid and hydration stations in place. The lively atmosphere encouraged intergenerational bonding and joyful competition, embodying the Jesuit ideal of cura personalis—care for the whole person.
Widely praised for its inclusivity and festive energy, the event is set to become an annual tradition, possibly expanding to include other sports.
Talent hunt competition
On 13th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, held a Talent Hunt Competition to identify and nurture student talent in music, dance, and performance arts. The event, held in the college auditorium, saw 28 participants showcasing solo and group acts—including Bharatnatyam, hip-hop, freestyle dance, vocal performances (classical, contemporary, and regional), instrumental pieces (guitar, violin, tabla), and beatboxing.
Each performer had 3–5 minutes to present, judged by a panel of three judges—Irisha Poonawala, Sharayu Bhalerao, and Sebastin Moktam—on criteria like technical skill, creativity, stage presence, and audience engagement. Notable acts included an original beatboxing performance and self-choreographed dance routines.
While no prizes were awarded on spot—emphasizing assessment over competition—the event aimed to build a roster of performers for inter-college cultural festivals. Shortlisted students will undergo follow-up auditions and grooming sessions in stagecraft and presentation. The Talent Hunt highlighted the college’s commitment to holistic development and celebrating non-academic excellence.
Participation in the seminar “Human Rights and Citizenship, National Transformative Leadership Program” by AICUF students
From 13th –17th August 2025, students from the AICUF unit of St. Vincent College, Pune, attended the National Transformative Leadership Program “Human Rights and Citizenship” in Bengaluru, themed “Glocalizing Catholic Student Action: Empowerment, Engagement, and Solidarity.” The five-day residential seminar brought together AICUF delegates nationwide for interactive sessions on constitutional rights, gender justice, environmental ethics, and the rights of marginalized groups—including indigenous communities, religious minorities, and persons with disabilities—framed by Catholic social teaching and the concept of “glocalization.”
The Pune delegation actively contributed to group discussions, developing campus action plans on mental health awareness and support for informal workers, and sharing insights from their NSS and outreach initiatives. Daily reflections and evening cultural exchanges deepened their understanding of India’s diversity and shared commitment to justice.
The program concluded with a collective declaration to advance human rights education, interfaith harmony, and civic engagement. Returning inspired, the students plan to launch workshops, dialogues, and service projects at St. Vincent College, embodying their renewed commitment to ethical, faith-based leadership.
Participation of NSS students in the “Horrors of Partition Remembrance Day” organised by NSS department in SPPU
On 14th August 2025, four NSS students from St. Vincent College, Pune, participated in the seminar “Horrors of Partition Remembrance Day” organized by Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) to mark the national observance of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day. Held on the SPPU campus, the event honored the victims of the 1947 Partition through talks by historians, public officials, and academics, a documentary screening, and a moment of silence.
The session highlighted the human and social toll of Partition—displacement, violence, and trauma—and stressed the importance of remembering history to uphold unity, peace, and communal harmony. The St. Vincent students engaged in discussions on youth’s role in preserving historical memory and preventing identity-based divisions, and signed a solidarity pledge for national integration.
Returning with key insights, they reported to their NSS coordinator, Dr. Vishal Bhaware, underscoring the college’s commitment to value-based education and inter-institutional collaboration in fostering civic awareness and historical consciousness among students.
Independence Day celebrations and Cultural performance
On 15th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, observed Independence Day with a dignified ceremony on campus. The national flag was hoisted by chief guest Mr. George Judah, a two-time war veteran, whose presence lent solemnity and historical resonance to the occasion. This was followed by the national anthem and a moment of silence honoring freedom fighters and soldiers.
The celebration continued in the auditorium with a student-led cultural program featuring patriotic songs, recitations, and skits on themes of independence, unity, democracy, and civic duty. Organized with minimal decor but meaningful intent, the performances were well-received by students and staff alike.
Mr. Judah was felicitated and shared reflections on discipline, service, and the role of education in nurturing responsible citizenship. The event—marked by simplicity and respect—reinforced values of patriotism and historical awareness, aligning with the college’s commitment to observing national days with educational purpose.
Tree Plantation drive by the NSS unit
On 16th August 2025, the NSS Unit of St. Vincent College, Pune, in collaboration with the Board of Student Development, organized a One-Day Tree Plantation Drive in Bhojdari village, Taluka Sangamner, under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”—linking tree planting with reverence for motherhood.
The event began with an inaugural lamp-lighting ceremony and addresses by dignitaries including MLAs Dr. Kiranji Lahamate and Shri. Amol Khatal, Forest Officer Shri. Mohan Tamhane, Principal Dr. Anil Adsule, and NSS Programme Officer Dr. Vishal Bhaware. They emphasized afforestation, ecological balance, and the emotional resonance of dedicating saplings to mothers.
Fifty NSS volunteers and four staff members planted 1,000 saplings—primarily Pam and coconut trees—each dedicated to a participant’s mother. The local forest department provided technical guidance on planting and care.
The drive fostered environmental awareness, strengthened college-community ties, and highlighted the role of youth in sustainability. The college plans follow-up visits to monitor sapling growth as part of its 2025–26 NSS action plan.
Seminar on “Careers in Aviation” by Poise Academy for BA students
On 18th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, hosted a seminar on “Careers in Aviation” for BA students, conducted by Poise Academy. The two-hour session introduced diverse aviation roles beyond pilots and cabin crew—including ground staff, airport operations, air traffic control, security, cargo management, and airline administration.
Representatives clarified that Arts graduates can enter the field through diploma or certification courses, debunking the myth that only science students are eligible. They outlined qualifications, training duration, essential soft skills (like communication, grooming, and teamwork), and shared insights on work environments, salaries, and placement support via a visual presentation.
Students received handouts with course details, training centers, and application requirements, and engaged in a Q&A on age limits, shift patterns, and opportunities for women. The session—practical, realistic, and well-received—broadened career awareness, with the college planning more such industry-focused talks in the future.
Mentor-Mentee program officially launched along with orientation for students
On 22nd August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, launched its Mentor-Mentee Program to support undergraduate B.Com students—especially first- and second-years—through structured academic and personal guidance. Faculty members were assigned small groups of mentees and tasked with monitoring academic progress, offering help with time management, exam prep, and attendance, and guiding students on career and skill-development choices.
An orientation session clarified the program’s framework, emphasizing regular mentor-mentee interaction, early intervention for struggling students, and referrals to counseling when needed. Students were encouraged to approach mentors openly, understanding them as accessible academic allies—not formal counselors.
Coordinated by the academic committee, the program aims to personalize learning, boost engagement, and reduce dropouts. With no ceremonial launch, the focus remains on practical implementation. Initial feedback from faculty and students has been positive, and term-wise reviews will help refine the initiative. The program reflects the college’s shift toward holistic, student-centered education.
Placement Session for all the female students in St. Vincent College by “The Job Factory”
On 25th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, in collaboration with “The Job Factory” (Viman Nagar), held a career orientation session for female students from B.Com. and B.A. programs. The event highlighted free, short-term training (15 days to 6 weeks) in IT/ITES, accounting (Tally, Excel), retail sales, and hospitality—followed by 100% placement assistance in Pune-based companies.
The Job Factory emphasized its mission to support women’s employability, offering flexible timings, free study materials, and safe, inclusive workplaces. Roles included data entry operators, customer support staff, junior accountants, and front-office executives. Success stories and reassurances on workplace safety addressed common concerns.
Around 80 students attended, showing strong interest in Tally and ITES programs. Brochures with course and registration details were distributed, and a representative stayed for individual queries. The session, coordinated by MTVM’s Sr. Mareena Brahmane and supported by faculty, aimed to empower women with practical pathways to employment.
Seminar on “Awareness on aids”
On 26th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, in collaboration with the Pune Municipal Corporation’s Health Department, held an AIDS awareness seminar for B.Com. and B.A. students. A public health educator from PMC delivered a session on HIV transmission, progression to AIDS, prevention—including PrEP, PEP, and safe practices—and the availability of free, confidential testing and Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Pune.
The talk emphasized dispelling myths (e.g., “HIV is a death sentence”), reducing stigma, and promoting compassion toward people living with HIV. Real-life examples and a NACO-produced video illustrated how treatment enables healthy, normal lives. Students received pamphlets with helpline numbers, ART center details, and safety tips.
A Q&A addressed concerns about testing accuracy, window periods, and cure status. The session supported national HIV goals and the college’s commitment to holistic health education, with future workshops on sexual health, substance abuse, and mental wellness planned.
Educational Seminar on “Careers in Creativity – Design, Fashion and Beyond”
On 26th August 2025, St. Vincent College hosted the seminar “Careers in Creativity: Design, Fashion and Beyond,” featuring Mr. Ajinkya Harshey, Founder of ARH Design Academy and mentor for NATA, NID, NIFT, and JEE Paper 2 aspirants. He provided practical insights into creative education, portfolio development, entrance exam strategies, and career opportunities in design, fashion, and architecture—both in India and abroad.
The session highlighted emerging industry trends, skill expectations, and pathways to turn creative passion into sustainable careers. An interactive Q&A addressed students’ personal concerns, making the talk both informative and relatable. The event successfully inspired and empowered students to explore non-traditional, creativity-driven professions.
Our students make us proud
Mr. Omkar Pawar has secured 2nd rank in the intercollegiate event “Commerce Through the Ages”, organized by the Department of Arts and Commerce at MIT College (2025–26).
Mr. Aditya Jadhav (Alumnus), former 3-time University Boxing Champion and National-level player, is now coaching the next generation of boxers — and his students are already winning awards. We’re proud to see him passing on his excellence!
Interview preparation workshop
On 7th August 2025, St. Vincent College, Pune, conducted an Interview Preparation Workshop for F.Y.B.Com and S.Y.B.Com students. The session was led by faculty members Dr. Franklin Salvi and Mr. Shahzad Nariman. It aimed to build students’ confidence and skills for job interviews, internships, and placements. The workshop covered types of interviews, common questions, body language, dressing sense, and professional etiquette. Faculty explained how to structure answers and introduce oneself effectively in 1–2 minutes. Emphasis was placed on research, honesty, and composure during interviews. A mock interview segment allowed five students to practice, followed by immediate feedback. Small group activities helped others rehearse responses in a supportive setting. Students learned how to handle stress, discuss weaknesses, and respond when unsure of answers. The session lasted two hours and was held in the college seminar hall. Attendance was high, with active participation from both first and second-year students. Feedback was positive, with students appreciating the practical, hands-on approach. The college plans to organize follow-up sessions on resume writing and group discussions. Mr. Nariman and Dr. Salvi’s guidance was clear, relevant, and student-focused. The workshop successfully equipped students with essential real-world interview skills.
Rural Immersion Program for AICUF students
From 29th – 31st August 2025, the AICUF unit of St. Vincent College, Pune, organized a three-day Rural Immersion Program—Jeevika—in Hivre Korda and two nearby villages in Ahmednagar district. Twelve undergraduate students participated, staying in basic community accommodations to experience rural life and study grassroots environmental conservation, particularly watershed management.
Hivre Korda, renowned for transforming from a drought-prone village into a self-reliant model through collective watershed initiatives, served as the focal site. Students observed percolation tanks, check dams, contour bunding, and afforestation, and engaged with farmers and village leaders who explained community-driven water governance, crop choices, and bans on open grazing.
In the second village, they explored decentralized water systems and the role of women’s self-help groups, supported by MGNREGA. The third village highlighted links between watershed development, organic farming, and soil health.
Through field walks, informal talks with local activists, and reflective discussions, students examined the social, ecological, and economic impacts of sustainable development—including its ties to social discipline, equity, and Catholic social teaching. The immersion emphasized experiential learning over formal training, deepening students’ commitment to environmental stewardship and rural solidarity. A student-led report is planned, along with potential future collaborations with rural development groups.