BITS Pilani, K K Birla Goa Campus successfully hosted the DST Inspire MANAK Scheme Mentoring Program on 5th January 2026, bringing together 11 bright school students from various government schools across Goa. The initiative aimed to nurture young minds, foster innovation, and provide structured guidance to budding student innovators.
Ms. Garima, Project Associate, Department of Science and Technology, Govt of India, the Chief Guest for the inaugural session, emphasized the importance of creativity, scientific curiosity, and innovation in shaping the future of the nation. Prof. Saroj Sundar Baral, Convenor, Institute Innovation Council, BITS Pilani, addressed the students, highlighting the activities of the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC) and emphasizing the importance of incorporating innovation into their projects.
Thereafter, Prof. Anirban Roy, Prof. D.M. Kulkarni, Prof. Naveen Gupta, Prof. Kiran Mali, and Prof. Ganesh Bapat conducted mentoring sessions, introducing students to emerging technologies such as 3D printing and other practical tools for innovation. Mr. Heramb Kanekar from Startup Promotion Cell Goa assured to provide necessary support for the student ideas.
Throughout the day, students engaged in:
- Interactive mentoring sessions with faculty and innovation experts.
- Hands-on activities and brainstorming exercises to refine their project ideas.
- Discussions on innovation pathways and opportunities for incubation and patent filing.
Participants were recognized for their enthusiasm and innovative spirit during the Valedictory Ceremony. Certificates of participation were distributed, and mentors highlighted the students’ potential to contribute meaningfully to India’s innovation ecosystem. During the Valedictory ceremony, BITS Pilani, K K Birla Goa Campus reaffirmed its commitment to support national innovation initiatives and empower young learners through mentorship and exposure to cutting-edge academic environments.
The program was efficiently coordinated and executed by Mr. Manojkumar Rajagopalan and Ms. Priyanka Singh, ensuring the smooth organization of the DST Inspire MANAK Scheme mentoring initiative.
