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Guest lecture on “Navigating the Web Tech Industry: From Code to Career”

The Department of Computer Science, in collaboration with the Career Training, Internship & Placement (CTIP) Cell, organized a guest lecture titled “Navigating the Web Tech Industry: From Code to Career” on 28th February 2025. The session, conducted in Class S-207 from 11:30 AM to 12:45 PM, was attended by 36 SY BCA students (17 males, 19 females). The event coordinators Asst. Prof. Deepti Kulkarni and Asst. Prof. Samira Vengurlekar were also present for the session.

The resource person, Mr. Akshay Mulgavkar, Senior Software Developer at SJ Innovation, Verna, shared valuable insights into the web technology industry, emphasizing industry expectations, AI in coding, and key web development trends that drive modern applications. He covered critical topics such as local and staging environments, mobile app development (native, hybrid, and progressive web apps), the MERN stack, and UI/UX design. He also highlighted the importance of version control, debugging, and testing in staging environments, while explaining the role of AI in enhancing user experience. Additionally, Mr. Mulgavkar elaborated on how modern full-stack development with the MERN stack powers scalable applications and the advantages and use cases of different mobile application development approaches.

The session provided students with a comprehensive understanding of modern web development practices and career prospects in the web technology domain. He also encouraged students to stay updated with emerging technologies and work on hands-on projects to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications. The discussion on UI/UX design covered aesthetics, usability testing, and adaptive interfaces, showcasing the growing importance of user-cantered design in the industry. The interactive nature of the lecture fostered discussions and queries, making it a valuable learning experience.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity

The session will provide students with valuable insights into key web development concepts such as staging environments, mobile app development (native, hybrid, and PWA), and the MERN stack. It will also help them understand industry expectations, including coding standards, debugging techniques, and best practices. Additionally, students will be made aware of the significance of UI/UX design, focusing on usability, aesthetics, and AI-driven enhancements in application development. The lecture will also encourage students to engage in  hands-on projects, apply theoretical concepts, and explore real-world coding scenarios, ultimately enhancing their technical skills and career prospects in the web technology industry

Session on “Education Opportunities Overseas”

The MoU Cell and the Career, Training, Internship, and Placement (CTIP) Cell of the College organized a session on “Education Opportunities Overseas” for TY B.Com students on 24th February 2025 in Classroom F-104 from 4:00 PM onwards. The session aimed to create awareness among students about higher education opportunities abroad and the significance of standardized tests such as TOEFL and GRE.

The resource persons for the session were Ms. Sameeta Fernandes, Marketing Assistant, and Ms. Shevona Dabhokar, Counsellor from Eduadvise International. The session commenced with an introduction of the resource persons by the faculty in charge, Asst. Prof. Sheryl Sanches.

Ms. Sameeta Fernandes provided an overview of Eduadvise International and elaborated on the importance of TOEFL and GRE for students aspiring to study abroad. Following this, Ms. Shevona Dabhokar discussed the benefits of taking the TOEFL exam through Eduadvise, highlighting advantages such as reduced test duration, a streamlined registration process, enhanced score reporting, free AI-scored mobile practice sets, an improved ‘at-home’ test experience, INR payment options, and India-based customer support.

A total of 40 TY B.Com students (12 males, 28 females) attended the session. The session was informative and provided students with valuable insights into pursuing higher education overseas.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity

The session on “Education Opportunities Overseas” provided students with insights into international study options and the importance of TOEFL and GRE. It covered test structures, benefits, registration, and score reporting, helping students make informed decisions. Eduadvise International’s support services were also highlighted. By the end, students felt more confident and prepared to explore study-abroad opportunities.

Inter-collegiate event “WordsUp 6.0”

The three-day national event “WordsUp 6.0”, hosted by the English Department of St. Xavier’s College, was held from 22nd to 25th February 2025. Themed around comics, the team from Damodar College was assigned the comic Asterix and the Vikings through a random lot system. A contingent of 36 students from our college actively participated in various competitions and activities.

Day-wise Breakdown

Zero Day (22nd February 2025) – Writers’ Corner 

The event commenced with Writers’ Corner, where four students from our college participated in the lot-picking process for the upcoming competitions. The day also featured a panel discussion, a comic workshop, and open mic sessions that set the tone for the event.

Day 1 (24th February 2025) – Main Competitions

The first official competition day began with registration followed by campus orientation led by Ms. Mildred and Ms. Azelia. The inaugural function was followed by students dispersing to their respective competitions. The college campus was vibrant, with participants dressed as various comic characters and interactive stalls adding to the lively atmosphere.

Day 2 (25th February 2025) – Submissions and Grand Parade

The second day focused on submission-based events such as photography and vlogging, where participants submitted their creative entries capturing memorable moments from Day 1. The highlight of the day was the Grand Parade, which saw maximum participation. The event concluded with the Valedictory Function, where winners were announced and awarded.

Our students demonstrated outstanding talent and secured top positions in multiple categories:

1st Place – The Joker’s Jesters (Stand-up Comedy): Mr. Mujimil Shaikh (TY B.Voc)

1st Place – Shredder’s Sixty-Second Showdown (Minute to Win It): Mr. Sudeep Dharwadkar (FY B.Com)

2nd Place – Up Against the Wall (Wall Painting): Mr. Shreyash Naik (SY B.Com)

Participation in WordsUp 6.0 was an enriching experience, particularly for first-year students who gained valuable exposure in a national-level event. The competition provided a platform to showcase creativity, boost confidence, and interact with peers from various colleges. The success of this event was made possible by the unwavering support of the college management and the dedicated guidance of Asst. Prof. Ciana Fernandes, Teacher-in-Charge. The students returned with enhanced skills, cherished memories, and a strong sense of achievement, making this event a resounding success.

Resume Designing and Creating an Attractive LinkedIn Profile

The Department of Management Studies, in collaboration with the career, Training, Internship and Placement (CTIP) Cell, organized a guest lecture on “Resume Designing and Creating an Attractive LinkedIn Profile” for SY BBA (FS) students on 22nd February 2025 from 12.15 PM to 1.15 PM in Classroom F-406. The session was conducted by Ms. Alfiya Baig, Supervisor & School Counselor, (GEDC), provided valuable insights into crafting professional resumes and optimizing LinkedIn profiles for better job prospects.

Ms. Baig emphasized the importance of a well-structured, ATS-friendly resume that effectively highlights skills, achievements, and experiences. She advised students to tailor their resumes to specific job roles, ensuring clarity and relevance to enhance their chances of passing initial screenings.

She also guided students on optimizing their LinkedIn profiles by crafting a strong professional headline, writing a compelling summary, and strategically using keywords to improve visibility in recruiter searches. She stressed that an updated and engaging LinkedIn profile significantly increases opportunities for internships and job placements.

Additionally, Ms. Baig shared effective networking strategies, encouraging students to connect with industry professionals, recruiters, and guest speakers. She provided real-time practical tips on standing out in a competitive job market. A total of 45 students (28 males, 17 females) attended the session.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity

The session equipped students with essential skills to design an ATS-friendly resume and optimize their LinkedIn profiles for better job and internship opportunities. Students gained insights into crafting a professional resume tailored to industry-specific roles, enhancing their online presence with strategic keyword placement, and effectively networking with industry professionals. The session also prepared them for Semester IV internship opportunities by improving their job market readiness and increasing their visibility to recruiters.

14th D.D Kosambi Festival of Ideas 2025

The “14th D. D. Kosambi Festival of Ideas 2025” was organized by the Directorate of Art and Culture, Government of Goa, from 24th February to 28th February 2025 at the Main Auditorium, Kala Academy, Campal, Panaji, Goa. The festival featured renowned personalities delivering intellectual lectures, sharing valuable knowledge on various subjects.

Day-wise Breakdown:

Day 1 (24th February 2025):

The inaugural ceremony commenced at 4:30 PM, graced by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, Art and Culture Minister Mr. Govind Gaude, and the Director of Kala Academy. The highlight of the day was an enlightening session by Gaur Gopal Das Ji, who captivated the audience with his thought-provoking insights on life. He compared life to an airplane journey, emphasizing that take-off represents birth, landing signifies death, and turbulence symbolizes challenges, successes, and relationships.

Through his lecture, he emphasized the true essence of positivity, stating that it is okay not to be positive all the time and that one should focus on being grateful. He highlighted the importance of the process of growth over the pressure to grow, offering a fresh perspective on navigating life’s journey. His session blended motivational quotes, shayari, and even singing, making it truly memorable. During the Q&A session, he shared the major influences in his life, including his grandmother, mother, Guru Radhanath Swami Ji, and Paramguru Shree Krishna. His key takeaway: “Do not be  rude and arrogant, as relationships are greater than ego.”

On day 1 a total of 33 NSS Volunteers attended the same along with 2 Faculty Members: Asst. Prof. Kalpana Parab and Asst. Prof. Akshada Gaonkar.

Day 2 (25th February 2025):

The second day featured a session by Ms. Alka Saraogi, a renowned novelist and eminent Hindi author. The session titled “And it says, Save me from Suicide” was scheduled from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The talk focused on mental health, literature, and storytelling as a tool for social awareness. A total of 20 students (13 Female, 07 Male) from BCA and B.Voc (ST), accompanied by Ms. Vinaya Kirloskar, Assistant Professor in Commerce, attended the session.

Following the talk, an interactive Q&A session addressed mental well-being, the role of literature in mental health awareness, and strategies to support individuals facing emotional distress. The talk was well-received, leaving students with a deeper understanding of mental health challenges and the importance of open conversations and seeking help when needed.

Day 3 (27th February 2025):

A group of 24 students from the BBA (Financial Services) programme, along with faculty member Asst. Prof. Sarth Shanbhag, attended a session by Ms. Nivedita Bhide, a distinguished social worker and author. She provided insightful commentary on Swami Vivekananda, highlighting valuable life lessons applicable to both personal and professional growth. The event fostered intellectual curiosity and inspiration, leaving students with a renewed perspective on philosophy and self-development.

Day 4 (28th February 2025):

The festival concluded with an inspiring session by Commander Abhilash Tomy, a retired Indian Navy officer, naval aviator, and renowned yachtsman. Accompanied by 41 NSS volunteers and faculty member Asst. Prof. Sanjay Velip, the students listened to his extraordinary life journey, particularly his solo, non-stop circumnavigation of the world under sail.

Commander Tomy commenced his speech with an inspiring quote, immediately capturing the audience’s attention. He then shared his extraordinary life experiences, with a particular focus on his achievements in circumnavigation. He proudly recounted his historic feat of becoming the first Indian to complete a solo, non-stop circumnavigation of the world under sail.

During his address, he also spoke about his participation in the 2018 Golden Globe Race. Unfortunately, he was unable to complete the race as his boat was severely damaged after encountering a tsunami. Despite this setback, his resilience remained unwavering. He shared how he retired from military service in January 2021 to fully dedicate himself to competitive sailing, particularly preparing for the 2022 Golden Globe Race. Commander Tomy’s perseverance paid off when he participated in the 2022 Golden Globe Race and secured second place, making history as the only Asian skipper to achieve a podium finish in a round-the-world sailing race.

His session emphasized the values of resilience, perseverance, and courage, leaving students deeply inspired. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, where students engaged with Commander Tomy to gain deeper insights into his experiences.

The 14th D.D. Kosambi Festival of Ideas 2025 provided students with a unique opportunity to engage with intellectual leaders, gain knowledge on diverse topics, and develop a broader perspective on life and personal growth. The sessions were highly motivational, insightful, and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on all attendees. The event was a grand success, encouraging intellectual exploration and inspiring students to strive for excellence in their respective fields.

Field Visit to Centre for Incubation and Business Acceleration (CIBA), Verna

The Department of Computer Science, in collaboration with the E-Cell and Incubation Centre, organized an educational field visit to the Centre for Incubation and Business Acceleration (CIBA), Verna, on 21st February 2025. The visit aimed to provide students with insights into the role of incubation centers in fostering entrepreneurship and supporting startups. A total of 33 students (13 males, 20 females) from the BCA and B.Voc (ST) programmes, along with faculty member Asst. Prof. Vinaya Kirloskar, participated in the field visit.

The session began with a warm welcome by Mr. Sanjay Mulvi, Head of Seed Fund & Incubation at CIBA, who provided an overview of CIBA’s mission and contributions towards nurturing startups. He explained how CIBA offers incubation facilities, mentorship, and funding opportunities to entrepreneurs in various domains, including technology, agribusiness, and manufacturing.

Following this, Mr. Rahul Parab, Founder of Greentech Global Holdings and Mentor at the Institute Innovation Council, conducted an interactive session on entrepreneurial opportunities and government schemes under Swavalambi Bharat Abhiyan. He highlighted key initiatives that support startups, focusing on self-employment, skill development, and financial assistance. His insights greatly encouraged students to explore entrepreneurship as a potential career path.

The visit provided students with valuable exposure to the startup ecosystem and the critical role that incubation centers play in business growth. They gained insights into various government schemes, financial support programs, and networking opportunities that can help budding entrepreneurs transform their ideas into successful ventures. After an engaging session, the group departed from CIBA, returning to the college campus by 12:20

Expected Outcomes of the Activity

The educational field visit to CIBA, Verna, aimed to equip students with an understanding of incubation centers and their significance in fostering entrepreneurship. Through direct interactions with industry experts, students learned about startup funding, business mentorship, and government initiatives like Swavalambi Bharat Abhiyan. The visit successfully encouraged students to consider entrepreneurship as a career option by familiarizing them with the available resources and support systems.

Career Guidance Session on “Career Compass: Charting Your Path to Success”

The Career, Training, Internship, and Placement (CTIP) Cell, in collaboration with the Akademia School of Business Studies (ASBS), organized a career guidance session titled “Career Compass: Charting Your Path to Success” on 21st February 2025 in the Smart Classroom. The session, conducted by Ms. Yashita Pathak, Outreach Manager at ASBS, began at 1:50 PM and aimed to help students explore future career opportunities in an evolving job market.

Ms. Yashita shared her personal career journey, from clearing JEE Advanced to dropping out of NIT and later pursuing a B.Sc. in Economics. She engaged students in an interactive discussion on career choices, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in a rapidly transforming job landscape shaped by AI and automation.

The session highlighted emerging career trends, including fields such as Digital Marketing, Investment Banking, Financial Engineering, and Sports Management. Ms. Yashita guided students on future-ready career paths, provided valuable insights into career planning, industry trends, and strategic decision-making, helping them assess emerging job opportunities, skill requirements and market demands. Through real-world examples and expert insights, students gained clarity on career planning, higher education choices, and strategic decision-making for long-term success.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, allowing students to seek guidance on career transitions and skill development. The event was compered by Ms. Anwayee Pirankar. A total of 47 students (21 males, 26 females) attended the session.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity

The session provided students with valuable insights into emerging career opportunities and the evolving job market influenced by AI and automation. They gained a deeper understanding of the essential skills required to stay competitive in their professional journeys. Additionally, the session exposed students to non-traditional and interdisciplinary career options, encouraging them to explore diverse career paths beyond conventional choices. Through expert guidance and interactive discussions, students were better equipped to make informed decisions about their higher education, career transitions, and future-ready skill development.

Quiz on ‘Budget 2025’

The PG Club of the Post Graduate Department of Commerce organized an engaging Quiz on “Budget 2025” on 19th February 2025, from 12:15 PM to 2:00 PM in Classroom T-302. Designed to enhance students’ understanding of the Union Budget 2025 and encourage academic competition, the quiz was organized by M.Com Part-II students for their M.Com Part-I juniors. The event commenced with a warm welcome by hosts Mr. Nagesh Poojari and Mr. Isaq Ebrahim. Quiz Masters Mr. Vaibhav Girap and Miss Saloni Harjan conducted the competition, while Miss Sheryl Antao captured key moments. Miss Sushmeeta Chauwan and Miss Shiya Naik efficiently managed scoring. Eight teams participated:

Think Tanks (Mr. Shawn Fernandes & Mr. Merrito Costa)
Brainstormers (Mr. Bushra Khan & Miss Koel Jana)
Mind Masters (Miss Anmaria Jose & Miss Avni Naik)
Smart Squad (Miss Shina Colaco & Mr. Aliston Fernandes)
Fact Flare (Miss Apurva Parwar & Miss Joyce Dacosta)
Clever Crew (Miss Nadia Sena & Miss Deepika Kholkar)
Knowledge Gurus (Mr. Kavijit Gaonkar & Mr. Abhishek Pujari)
Powerhouse (Mr. Rudra Biswal & Mr. Abhay Shanubhag)

The quiz featured three rounds:

Knowledge Knockout: An elimination round introduced by Miss Ankita Malik and conducted by Quiz Master Mr. Vaibhav Girap, where teams answered multiple-choice questions. The top four teams – Clever Crew, Mind Masters, Knowledge Gurus, and Brainstormers – advance to the next round.

Buzzer Round: Introduced by Miss Vanshita Naik and conducted by Miss Saloni Harjan, round involved visuals and questions with buzzer-based responses. Clever Crew excelled in this round.

Rapid Fire: A high-speed Q&A session testing teams’ ability to answer within a time limit. Clever Crew dominated this round as well.

Winners

1st Place: Clever Crew (Miss Nadia Sena & Miss Deepika Kholkar) – with a total of 85 points
2nd Place: Mind Masters (Miss Anmaria Jose & Miss Avni Naik) – with a total of 50 points
3rd Place: Knowledge Gurus (Mr. Kavijit Gaonkar & Mr. Abhishek Pujari) – with a total of 40 points

Additionally, spot questions to the audience by Miss Sharvari Bhatikar and Miss Siddhi Haldankar saw enthusiastic participation, with winners including Mss Simren Mascarenhas, Mr. Nagesh Poojari, Miss Aemisha Azavedo, Mr. Rudra Biswal, Mr. Aliston Fernandes, Miss Anusha Rodrigues, and Mr. Omkar Mhamal.

The event concluded with faculty members distributing certificates to winners and participants. A vote of thanks by Miss Sunia Boruah marked the end of a successful and intellectually stimulating quiz, leaving students with a deeper understanding of the Union Budget 2025. A total of 45 students (15 males, 30 females) of M.Com Part-I and M.Com Part-II were part of this event.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity

The Quiz on ‘Budget 2025’ enhanced students’ understanding of key budget provisions, financial policies, and economic trends. It fostered critical thinking, quick decision-making, and teamwork through engaging rounds like the buzzer and rapid-fire sessions. The event promoted healthy competition, boosted confidence, and encouraged self-learning and research. Additionally, it provided a platform for students to develop public speaking and analytical skills while making complex economic concepts more accessible. The recognition of winners and participants further motivated students to engage in future academic activities, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

Survey on Garbage Dumping Areas in Margao

Margao, the largest and most densely populated city in the state of Goa, is known for its vibrant markets, historical landmarks, and commercial activities. With urbanization and migration, its population has grown significantly in recent years. This rapid growth, along with commercial expansion, has led to increasing challenges in waste management.

Several areas in and around Margao face issues of open garbage dumping, resulting in unhygienic conditions. Despite various waste management initiatives, many residents and businesses fail to practice proper segregation of wet and dry waste. In several locations, garbage bins overflow due to inadequate collection frequency, attracting stray animals and creating health hazards. Additionally, irresponsible waste disposal by some residents contributes to pollution and environmental degradation.

To address this issue, a team of 08 NSS volunteers (05 males, 03 females) from VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics undertook the responsibility to conducted a survey on 18th February 2025, in order to identify and document garbage dumping sites in and around Margao. The survey utilized geo-tagged photographs to map affected locations and assess the severity of the issue.

The identified garbage dumping sites included:

Near the Fire Station (Railway Station Road to Power House Circle)
Behind Costa Factory, Aquem
Khareband Road, near Kissan Garage

Key Observations:

Fire Station Area (Railway Station Road to Power House Circle): Large amounts of plastic waste, household garbage, and debris were found accumulating along the roadside. The overflowing waste poses a risk of drainage clogging, leading to waterlogging and unhygienic conditions.

Behind Costa Factory, Aquem: The site had a significant amount of mixed waste, including non biodegradable plastics and paper waste, spread across a large area.

Khareband Road (Near Kissan Garage): Observations revealed unsegregated dumping of organic and non-biodegradable waste, worsening the environmental impact.

The survey highlighted the urgent need for improved waste management in these areas. The NSS team recommends Stricter enforcement of waste disposal regulations by local authorities and regular garbage collection and cleaning drives to prevent accumulation.

This initiative by NSS volunteers aims to sensitize the local community and stakeholders about the importance of environmental cleanliness and responsible waste disposal.

Expected Outcomes of the Activity

The NSS volunteers’ survey on garbage dumping in Margao aimed to identify key problem areas and promote better waste management. Using geo-tagged photographs, the findings highlighted the need for improved waste collection, segregation, and disposal. The report can aid municipal authorities in implementing targeted clean-up drives, installing bins, and increasing collection frequency. Raising awareness among residents and businesses will help reduce health hazards and improve sanitation. The survey also lays the groundwork for future cleanliness campaigns, encouraging sustainable practices like composting, recycling, and responsible waste disposal

Industry Academia Connect – Field Trip & Session on AI Agent Building

As part of the Industry Academia Connect, the Department of Computer Science was invited by SJ Innovation, a company based in Verna, for a session on “AI Agent Building” on 14th February 2025, from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM at their company premises. The session was attended by 22 students from the BCA and BVoc.(ST) programmes and 03 faculty members.

The session commenced with Mr. Abesh Shirodkar, Technical Lead, who provided an overview of SJ Innovation, its industry presence, and the objective of the session. Following this, Mr. Akshay Naik, Technical Lead, introduced the participants to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its real-world implications. He began by explaining the fundamentals of AI, ensuring that students understood the key terminologies and concepts involved in AI tools

Mr. Akshay emphasized the significance of building a strong foundation in AI-related concepts during college to enhance career prospects. He also discussed the impact of DeepSeek on the market and highlighted the importance of understanding Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative AI. He was very approachable and happy to interact with students for being aware about the various topics and current trends and updates in the field of AI.

A key highlight of the session was the demonstration of CollabAI, where Mr. Akshay explained Agent Building using prompt engineering necessary for getting the right output from an AI Agent. He showcased various AI-generated creations, including an anime-style adaptation of ‘Game of Thrones’, illustrating how well-structured prompts can yield high-quality AI-generated outputs. The session concluded at 12:45 PM with an engaging Q&A session.

Additionally, faculty members had the opportunity to interact with three alumni of the college currently employed at SJ Innovation – Mr. Abesh Shirodkar, Mr. Vinay Mahale and Mr. Pranav – All three alumni are graduates of the BCA programme at our college.

The Industry Academia Connect – Field Trip was highly appreciated by students, as they gained valuable insights into AI Agent Building and received access to the CollabAI platform and Community of SJ Innovation for continued learning and experimentation. This initiative successfully bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, providing students with real-world exposure to AI technologies.

Faculty In-charges for the Industry Academia Connect – Fieldtrip were Asst. Prof. Annette Santimano, Asst. Prof. Samira Vengurlekar and Asst. Prof. Sweta P. Shet Verenkar.

Expected Outcome of the Activity

The activity enhanced students’ interest and knowledge in Artificial Intelligence, focusing on AI chatbots, Agent Building, and Prompt Engineering. It also improved their ability to analyze AI-generated code using foundational programming skills. Additionally, interaction with SJ Innovation mentors provided valuable guidance for developing mini AI agents as future project work.