The National Seminar titled "Alchemy of Management Excellence" was a significant event organized in our college on the 24th and 25th of January 2014, specifically designed for Commerce and Management students and faculty members. This seminar aimed to bring together various academic institutions to share knowledge and insights into management practices and theories. A total of 20 colleges, offering postgraduate courses and affiliated with various universities, were invited to participate, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the academic community.
The seminar commenced with an inauguration ceremony that set the tone for the event. Dr. G. James Pitchai, the Honorable Vice Chancellor of Bharathiar University in Coimbatore, graced the occasion as the chief guest. His presence underscored the importance of the seminar and provided a sense of credibility to the discussions that were to follow. Dr. Pitchai’s insights into the evolving landscape of management education were particularly inspiring for the attendees.
Following the inauguration, Mr. Ullas Kamath, the Joint Director of Ujala, delivered the keynote address. His address was pivotal in framing the themes of the seminar, as he shared his experiences and perspectives on management excellence in the contemporary business environment. Mr. Kamath's engaging presentation captivated the audience and encouraged them to think critically about the challenges and opportunities in management.
The seminar featured a diverse range of presentations, with 20 research papers being presented by faculties and students from various colleges. These papers covered a wide array of topics related to management practices, theories, and innovations. Each presentation provided valuable insights and fostered meaningful discussions among participants, creating an interactive and intellectually stimulating atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the seminar was the participation of eminent personalities from various fields, who contributed their expertise and knowledge. Among them was Professor Philip Sabu, an IIM-Ahmedabad alumnus and Director of the MBA program at Kerala Agricultural University. His session focused on innovative management strategies, providing practical insights that resonated well with the audience.
Another notable speaker was Mr. P. Ravindranath, Principal Consultant at RK Swamy BBDO. His expertise in marketing and communication enriched the discussions, as he shared effective strategies for brand management and consumer engagement. His practical examples and case studies made the concepts more relatable and applicable for the participants.
Dr. G. Sandhya Nair, a faculty member from Vivekananda College, Kunnamkulam, also contributed significantly to the seminar. Her presentation on leadership styles and their impact on organizational culture sparked engaging discussions among attendees. The insights shared by Dr. Nair emphasized the importance of adaptive leadership in today’s dynamic business environment.
Mr. S. Gopakumar, Vice President of Apollo Tyres, shared his experiences in managing teams and driving organizational success. His practical approach to management and emphasis on teamwork and collaboration were particularly well-received by the students and faculty members present. His session provided real-world applications of management theories, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
Professor K.V. Menon, a former employee of Philips India Limited, Bombay, also shared his wealth of knowledge during the seminar. His insights into operational excellence and quality management were invaluable, especially for students aspiring to enter the corporate world. Professor Menon’s emphasis on continuous improvement resonated with many participants.
Dr. Rupa, the Head of Management Studies at Bharathiar University, contributed to the seminar by discussing contemporary issues in management education. Her perspective on the need for curriculum innovation and the integration of technology in management studies was timely and relevant, given the rapid changes in the educational landscape.
Lastly, Ms. Rajasree, a faculty member at KILA, brought a unique perspective to the discussions. Her focus on public administration and its intersection with management principles provided a broader context for understanding management in various sectors. Her insights encouraged participants to think beyond traditional management frameworks.
The seminar concluded with a valedictory address delivered by Professor Raveendranath, Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Calicut. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the field of management. The event not only facilitated knowledge sharing but also fostered networking opportunities among participants, making it a memorable and enriching experience for all involved.