R S PURA, Aug 21: Government Degree College (GDC) R.S. Pura, under the banner of UdyamJagriti 5.0–College Campaign of Mission Yuva, organised a UT-wide Student Entrepreneurship Hackathon in collaboration with the Directorate of Employment and Mission Yuva, J&K. The programme was aimed at fostering innovation, entrepreneurial thinking and a startup culture among students.
The hackathon brought together aspiring student entrepreneurs and faculty members from various disciplines, providing them with practical insights into transforming innovative ideas into viable startups. The programme focused on key aspects of entrepreneurship, including idea validation, business model development, market research, funding opportunities and the role of incubation centres in supporting emerging startups.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Vijeeta Anand. Expert speakers and resource persons Ms. Indu Sharma, Business Help Desk Coordinator, R.S. Pura, and Rohit Sharma, Business Help Desk Coordinator, Khour, shared their real-world experiences, challenges and success stories with the participants. They encouraged students to think creatively, explore entrepreneurial opportunities and take calculated risks while developing their business ideas.
Interactive sessions, case studies and question-answer segments provided participants an opportunity to engage directly with the experts and gain a better understanding of startup ecosystems, government schemes and incubation support mechanisms. Students actively participated in the discussions and appreciated the practical orientation of the programme.
The event was held under the able guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Preetpal Kour, Principal, GDC R.S. Pura. She highlighted the importance of such initiatives in empowering students with entrepreneurial skills and preparing them to become job creators rather than job seekers. She said exposure to entrepreneurship and innovation can help students develop confidence and identify new opportunities for self-employment and enterprise development.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. Neeru Sawhney, Placement Coordinator, and Dr. Hari Singh, Incubation Coordinator, under the supervision of Prof. Anju Kumari, Nodal Officer, Mission Yuva. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Vijeeta Anand, who acknowledged the efforts of the Directorate of Employment and Mission Yuva, J&K, the organising committee, resource persons, faculty members and participating students.
Dr. Anupama Pandotra, Dr. Neeti Chibber, Dr. Raj Kumari and Dr. Renu Sharma were among the faculty members present on the occasion. Their participation and support contributed to the successful conduct of the programme.