K J Somaiya College of Science and Commerce, Vidyavihar (Autonomous), reaffirmed its strong research culture through an impressive performance at the Aavishkar Research Convention 2025–26 organised by the University of Mumbai. With sustained preparation, committed mentorship, and enthusiastic student participation, the institution nurtured a vibrant research environment that translated into notable achievements at the zonal, inter-zone, and state levels of the prestigious convention.
The journey began early in the academic year with a series of initiatives designed to introduce and prepare students for research participation. The Avishkar Committee organised an orientation programme from 5th July to 18th July 2025 to familiarise undergraduate and postgraduate students with the scope, procedures, and benefits of participating in the Aavishkar Research Convention. The sessions witnessed enthusiastic engagement, benefiting 579 students and laying a strong foundation for research exploration across disciplines.
To further strengthen students’ research capabilities, the committee organised a one-day workshop titled Designing a Research Project – Sanshodhanam on 29th July 2025. The workshop focused on helping students identify innovative research questions and develop structured research proposals aligned with the themes of the convention. Participants were introduced to key aspects of research design, critical thinking, and project development, equipping them with the skills required to initiate meaningful research work.
As the convention approached, several preparatory sessions were conducted to enhance students’ research communication and presentation skills. Workshops such as Art of Presentation, Research Readiness, and Honing Presentation Skills helped students develop clarity and confidence in presenting their work before academic panels. These sessions were complemented by hands-on activities including research podium reviews, poster refinement workshops, and simulated presentation drills conducted under the guidance of experienced mentors and research experts.
A significant milestone in this journey was the hosting of the 20th Aavishkar Inter-Collegiate / Institute / Department Research Convention 2025–26 – Zonal Round (Zone II) on 4th December 2025 at the college campus. Organised under the aegis of the Department of Students’ Development, University of Mumbai, the event brought together a large community of student researchers from colleges across regions including Sion to Mulund, Sion to Mankhurd, and GTB Nagar to Mankhurd. The convention witnessed the presentation of 298 research projects by 785 students across six categories: Humanities; Commerce and Management; Pure Sciences; Agriculture and Animal Husbandry; Engineering and Technology; and Medicine and Pharmacy.
From the college itself, 18 research projects were presented at the zonal round, of which six were shortlisted for the inter-zone poster round. Five of these projects advanced further to the final podium round, reflecting the strong quality and originality of research undertaken by Somaiya students. Four projects from the institution were subsequently selected for the State Level Aavishkar Convention, marking a significant academic achievement.
Among the highlights was the outstanding performance of Mr Austin Ashwin Parmar from the Department of Geology, whose research project titled Magnetic Fingerprinting of Continental Shelf Sediments for Mapping Potential Resources, mentored by Dr Mayashri Rajkakati, secured the Gold Medal at the State Level Aavishkar Research Convention held in Parbhani from 28th January to 1st February 2026. The project also went on to represent the institution at the Anveshan West Zone Student Research Convention, further underscoring the academic merit of the research.
Other projects from the institution also received recognition at various stages of the convention, including gold, bronze, and consolation awards. These achievements reflect the breadth of research talent across departments and the collaborative efforts of students and faculty mentors in pursuing innovative research ideas.
In recognition of these accomplishments, the Avishkar Committee organised a felicitation ceremony titled “Safalata Bhushnam” on 28th February 2026 to honour the students and mentors who represented the institution at the State Level Aavishkar Research Convention. The ceremony celebrated the dedication and perseverance demonstrated by the participants throughout their research journey. Principal Dr Pradnya Prabhu congratulated the students and mentors for their achievements and encouraged them to continue pursuing research with curiosity and determination. Dr Rohit Singh Chauhan, Dean – Research and Consultancy, also addressed the gathering, emphasising the importance of cultivating a strong scientific temperament and sustaining research engagement among students. A special moment of pride during the ceremony was the felicitation of Mr Austin Parmar for securing the Gold Medal in the PG Pure Sciences category.
The achievements at Aavishkar 2025–26 stand as a testament to the institution’s commitment to nurturing inquiry, innovation, and research excellence. Through structured mentorship, academic guidance, and sustained encouragement, the college continues to inspire young researchers to explore new ideas and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of knowledge.
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