An Interfaith Dialogue Seminar and Felicitation Ceremony
An Interfaith Dialogue Seminar was held on 3rd July at 10:30 a.m. at St. Vincent College, organized by AICUF. The event served as the concluding program of a year-long series of interfaith initiatives undertaken through the collaborative efforts of the Snehsadan Institute, the college’s faculty, and its management. This culminating seminar reflected a deep and sustained commitment to promoting mutual understanding, respect, and harmony among people of diverse religious backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in building a more peaceful and inclusive society.
Following the seminar, a felicitation ceremony was held to honor individuals who played a significant role in the success of the year-long interfaith journey. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Reverend Father Dr. Francis Gonsalves, S.J., a distinguished theologian and prominent advocate of interreligious dialogue in India. In his address, Fr. Gonsalves praised the initiative as a courageous and prophetic witness to the power of dialogue in times of growing polarization. The ceremony honored several individuals whose consistent dedication and selfless service had greatly contributed to the interfaith mission. Mr. Ervad Jamshed, Ms. Jacinta Bastian, Mr. Shamsuddin Tamboli, Mr. N.P. Bakshi, and Father Peter D’Cruz SJ were felicitated with tokens of appreciation and recognition for their invaluable efforts in fostering unity and understanding across religious lines. Their collective work throughout the year had inspired students, faculty, and community members alike, proving that sustained dialogue can sow seeds of peace and trust even in complex social landscapes.
Orientation for F.Y.B.Com Students
An orientation program for the first-year Bachelor of Commerce (F.Y.B.Com) students was conducted at St. Vincent College from 5th to 10th July 2025, marking the beginning of their academic journey with a comprehensive and enriching introduction to college life, curriculum, and values. The five-day program was meticulously planned to help students transition smoothly from high school to higher education by familiarizing them with the academic framework, institutional ethos, and various support systems available on campus.
The inauguration of the orientation took place on 5th July 2025 with a warm welcome and an insightful session by Dr. Franklin Salvi, who introduced the students to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He explained its transformative vision, including the multidisciplinary structure, choice-based credit system, and skill-oriented learning, helping students understand the flexibility and opportunities within their course. This was followed by an inspiring address by Fr. Robert Das, S.J., who spoke on the theme of nurturing responsible and dynamic youth, encouraging students to develop leadership, integrity, and social consciousness. A subsequent session by Sister Mareena, Mr. Radhakrushna Thange, and Dr. Archana Nair provided an overview of the various student clubs, associations, and forums in the college, emphasizing the importance of co-curricular participation in holistic development.
On the second day, Mr. Renson Vaz delivered a career-oriented session on the journey from campus to corporate life, highlighting the diverse career paths available to commerce students and the skills required to succeed in a competitive environment. This was followed by a meaningful discourse by Fr. Dr. Kenneth Misquita, S.J., who spoke about Jesuit values and Ignatian pedagogy, urging students to pursue excellence with empathy and purpose. He also offered practical guidance on managing academic pressure, making ethical choices, and embracing challenges with resilience. The day continued with a detailed presentation by Professor Mate on the library’s resources and research facilities, equipping students with the knowledge to utilize academic materials effectively for their studies.
The third day began with a session by Dr. Gilbi John, conducted in collaboration with Unique Academy, focusing on Indian and international certification courses that complement a commerce degree, such as CA, CMA, ACCA, and CFA, thereby broadening students’ academic and career horizons. Mr. Shahzad Nariman then conducted a practical workshop on making effective PowerPoint presentations, a vital skill for academic and professional success. The session was interactive and well-received, enabling students to enhance their communication and presentation abilities. Later, an anti-addiction seminar sensitized student to the dangers of substance abuse and promoted a healthy, focused lifestyle. This was followed by an important session conducted by representatives from Swargate Police Station, who educated students about local rules, safety measures, and civic responsibilities, fostering a sense of discipline and awareness.
The orientation concluded on 10th July 2025 with an introductory session on the different subjects and specializations that are available. Throughout the orientation, faculty members and guest resource persons created a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment, ensuring that students not only gained essential knowledge but also felt connected to the college community.
Orientation for F.Y.B.A Students
An orientation program for the newly admitted students of F.Y.B.A. was conducted at St. Vincent College on 5th July, marking the beginning of their academic journey in higher education. The program was thoughtfully designed to familiarize students with the foundational aspects of their course, the academic structure under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and the various facilities and support systems available at the college.
The session was led by Sister Mareena, who guided the students through a comprehensive overview of the NEP framework, explaining its key components such as the multidisciplinary approach, choice-based credit system (CBCS), semester pattern, skill-enhancement courses, and the concept of multiple exit and entry options. She also elaborated on the college’s pedagogical methods, emphasizing the shift from rote learning to student-centered, experiential, and holistic learning. Students were introduced to the academic calendar, internal assessment structure, and the importance of co-curricular and community engagement in their overall development.
The orientation continued in the following week with a special session on 9th July, graced by Fr. Dr. Kenneth Misquitta, S.J., the Director of St. Vincent College. Addressing the students with warmth and wisdom, Fr. Misquitta spoke at length about the Jesuit educational philosophy and Ignatian values that form the foundation of the institution. He emphasized principles such as cura personalis (care for the whole person), magis (the pursuit of excellence), and being “men and women for and with others.”
AICUF orientation
On July 5th, an orientation program for the newly enrolled FYBCOM and FYBA students was conducted by the current members of the AICUF (All India Catholic University Federation) unit at St. Vincent College. The session aimed to introduce the freshers to the values, objectives, and activities of AICUF, emphasizing its role in fostering social awareness, leadership, and community service among youth. The event began with a warm welcome and an ice-breaking session, followed by a brief presentation highlighting AICUF’s national presence, its commitment to justice, peace, and human rights, and its relevance in today’s socio-political context. Senior members shared their personal experiences, encouraging new students to actively participate in upcoming initiatives and spiritual-social gatherings.
The second part of the orientation focused on upcoming events, membership enrollment, and the importance of collective action in promoting inclusive development. Interactive discussions allowed freshers to ask questions and express their interests, creating a sense of belonging and enthusiasm. Overall, the orientation successfully laid the foundation for meaningful engagement, inspiring the new batch to embrace AICUF’s vision of faith, compassion, and service during their academic journey at St. Vincent College.
Seminar on “Careers in Accounting and Finance” by Financial Planning Academy
A seminar on “Careers in Accounting and Finance” was organized at St. Vincent College on 10th July, in collaboration with the Financial Planning Academy, a reputed institute based in Mumbai specializing in financial education and career guidance. The event was aimed at providing students, particularly those pursuing commerce and management disciplines, with comprehensive insights into the diverse and evolving career opportunities in the fields of accounting, finance, and financial planning.
The seminar was conducted by Mr. Siddhant, whose engaging and interactive approach made the session both informative and inspiring. Mr. Siddhant provided a clear roadmap of the academic and professional qualifications required for various finance careers, including CA, CFA, CPA, ACCA, CS, CMA, and MBA in Finance. The session also covered emerging trends such as digital accounting, automation in finance, and the role of data analytics in financial decision-making.
PTA meeting
A Parents-Teachers Meeting was held on 12th July at St. Vincent College, with the primary aim of helping parents become familiar with various aspects of college life, academic expectations, and institutional policies, thereby fostering transparency and trust between the college and the families of students. It also served as an important opportunity to orient parents about the transformative changes being introduced through the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and its implementation in the current academic framework.
Parents were informed about the shift toward a flexible, multidisciplinary curriculum that allows students to choose skill-based electives, earn credits through internships, and explore interdisciplinary learning. The introduction of the Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS), the semester pattern, and the holistic progress card were explained in simple terms, ensuring that parents could grasp how their children’s academic performance would be assessed and nurtured under the new system. Special attention was given to demystifying concepts such as multilingualism, Indian knowledge systems, and experiential learning, which are integral to the NEP’s vision.
In addition to academic updates, the meeting also covered broader aspects of campus life, including attendance norms, examination procedures, co-curricular opportunities, and student support services such as counseling and career guidance. Parents were introduced to the college’s digital platforms used for academic communication and progress tracking, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to transparency and regular feedback. The role of mentors and class teachers in monitoring student engagement and well-being was also highlighted. This was followed by an interactive session, during which parents actively participated by asking questions and sharing their concerns and the Faculty members responded with patience and clarity, addressing all the queries.
Installation of students on various posts for Career Parliament
In celebration of World Youth Skills Day on 15th July, St. Vincent College proudly inaugurated the “Career Parliament” under the prestigious “Career Katta” initiative, a joint endeavor by the Maharashtra State Department of Higher and Technical Education and the Maharashtra Technology Support Centre. The Career Parliament is a unique student-led platform designed to bridge the gap between students and government employment, education, and entrepreneurship initiatives. It aims to foster leadership, civic responsibility, and informed decision-making among youth by creating a structured system where student representatives are entrusted with disseminating vital career-related information.
The installation ceremony was held in the college auditorium and graced by the Principal of St. Vincent College, faculty members, and administrative staff. The newly selected student members of the Career Parliament took a formal oath of commitment and service, administered by the Principal, pledging to serve as informed and responsible ambassadors of career guidance within the campus. Each representative is assigned the responsibility of staying updated on relevant state and central government schemes related to their portfolio and disseminating the information amongst other students.
TNS India Foundation CSR project – Free training on Excel and Power BI
Under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of TNS India, a three-month skill development course in Microsoft Excel and Power BI was launched at St. Vincent College in June 2025 and will continue until the end of August 2025. The program aims to empower students with in-demand digital skills that enhance employability and support academic excellence.
The course is being conducted by multiple trained faculty members from TNS India, a reputed organization in the field of education and skill development. Their expertise ensures that students receive high-quality, hands-on training in data management, analysis, visualization, and reporting tools widely used across industries. The training is being offered free of cost, making it accessible to all students, particularly those from economically underprivileged backgrounds. It aligns with the college’s mission of holistic and inclusive education, while also bridging the digital skill gap among youth.
Rural Immersion Programme
The AICUF (All India Catholic University Federation) Unit of St. Vincent College successfully conducted a transformative Rural Immersion Program in Pathardi village, Nagar district, from 22nd to 24th of July. The program, aimed at fostering social awareness, empathy, and experiential learning, was conducted under the able guidance of faculty member Dr. Gilbi John, whose constant support enriched the students’ understanding throughout the journey.
The students were warmly hosted by Father Sunil, a dedicated social worker and community leader, who served as their guide and mentor during the immersion. He provided insightful orientation on the Karanji Watershed Program, a pioneering community-led initiative for water conservation and sustainable agriculture which has transformed the agrarian economy and ecological health of the region.
As part of the cultural and social exposure, students visited Kumbharwada, where they interacted with local potters. They also met the Dombari community, traditional acrobats and performers, who shared their rich cultural heritage, folk art, and the socio-economic struggles they face in preserving their identity in contemporary society. The students further engaged with the Medical Mission Sisters, who run a neonatal care hospital and a hostel for girls in the village. Additionally, the immersion included a session on horticulture farming, where local farmers introduced the students to sustainable farming practices, organic cultivation, and the economic potential of horticulture in rural livelihoods.
Seminar by Poise academy on “Careers in aviation industry”
A career awareness seminar on “Careers in the Aviation Industry” was successfully organized at St. Vincent College on 24th July in the college seminar hall. The event was conducted in collaboration with Poise Academy, a well-known air hostess and aviation career training institute based in Pune, recognized for its professional grooming and placement-oriented programs. The seminar aimed to guide and inspire students—especially those interested in dynamic, service-oriented careers—about the diverse opportunities in the aviation sector, with a special focus on roles such as flight attendants (air hostesses/stewards), ground staff, customer service executives, and hospitality personnel in airports and airlines.
The session was led by trained professionals and career counselors from Poise Academy, who shared valuable insights into the structure of the aviation industry, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step pathway to entering the field. They emphasized the importance of personality development, communication skills, grooming, and confidence—key attributes required for success in this competitive sector. This seminar served as a significant step in career guidance, helping students understand the realities and rewards of a career in aviation and equipping them with direction and motivation.
Embark Programme by AICUF
The AICUF (All India Catholic University Federation) Unit of St. Vincent College organized a vibrant and welcoming event titled “Embark” on 26th July in the college auditorium. Designed as a freshers’ meet, the event aimed to warm welcome first-year students into the AICUF family and introduce them to the mission, values, and activities of the organization.
The program was anchored by Brother Irivo, Amar, and Naveen, whose engaging and lively presence set a joyful and inclusive tone for the evening. The event began with a prayer, followed by a brief introduction to AICUF’s vision of fostering faith, leadership, and social responsibility among students. To foster bonding and break the ice, the event included fun-filled team games, group activities, and experience-sharing circles. “Embark” successfully fulfilled its purpose of integrating new students into the AICUF fold in a spirit of joy, openness, and fellowship.
Interviews for student council and various committees
Interviews for the Student Council and various student committees were conducted on 29th July at St. Vincent College, in the college seminar hall. The committees included AICUF (All India Catholic University Federation), MTVM (Mother Teresa Vidyarthini Manch), Media Team, and Event Management Committee. The selection process was organized to identify enthusiastic, responsible, and talented students to take on leadership and active roles in campus activities for the academic year.
The interviews were presided over by a panel of faculty members, who assessed the candidates based on their communication skills, leadership potential, sense of responsibility, initiative, and alignment with the values and objectives of the respective committees. This selection drive marks a significant step towards building a vibrant, responsible, and dynamic student leadership team committed to the holistic development of the college community.
Elocution competition on Occasion of Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola
An elocution competition on the topic “Impact of St. Ignatius of Loyola” was successfully organized by the AICUF Unit of St. Vincent College on 30th July in the college reading hall. The event was held in anticipation of the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola, celebrated on 31st July, and aimed to deepen students’ understanding of his life, spiritual legacy, and enduring influence on education, faith, and social justice.
The competition was judged by a panel comprising faculty members and senior AICUF coordinators, who evaluated the participants on content, expression, clarity, and confidence. As a token of recognition, the winner was awarded a cash prize of ₹2,250, presented during the closing ceremony by the faculty moderator of AICUF.
Webinar on occasion of Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola
A special webinar was organized on the occasion of the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola, celebrated on 31st July at 6:00 PM via Google Meet. The event was hosted by the All India Catholic University Federation (AICUF) at the national level, bringing together student members from various Catholic educational institutions across the country.
The theme of the webinar centered on the spiritual celebration of the feast, deepening prayer life, and sharing the core Ignatian values such as discernment, service, and commitment to justice. As part of this meaningful observance, students from the AICUF unit of St. Vincent College actively participated, engaging in reflections and discussions that highlighted the relevance of St. Ignatius’s teachings in contemporary student life.
The session included a brief prayer service, followed by inspirational messages emphasizing the importance of faith, leadership, and social responsibility. Participants shared personal insights on how Ignatian spirituality inspires them to be compassionate and proactive agents of change in society.
The webinar not only fostered a sense of unity among AICUF members nationwide but also strengthened the spiritual and communal identity of our students. It served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the call to “find God in all things.”