Pondicherry University, in collaboration with the First World Community (FWC) and the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), successfully organized a one-day symposium on “Igniting Startup Intuition Among Young Minds.” The event brought together eminent academicians, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to inspire and guide students in exploring entrepreneurial opportunities.
The symposium commenced with an inaugural session graced by university leaders and distinguished guests. Prof. Y. Venkata Rao, Dean of Students’ Welfare, welcomed the gathering and underlined the growing role of startups in shaping a vibrant economy. Prof. P. Natarajan, Dean of the School of Management, stressed the value of perseverance and hard work in entrepreneurial success, while extending an invitation to students to engage actively with the Pondicherry University Startup Hub (PUSH).
In his presidential address, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. P. Prakash Babu, urged students to transform into “employment providers rather than job seekers,” emphasizing willpower and determination as key drivers of entrepreneurial success.
Adding an industry perspective, Mr. C.K. Ashok Kumar, Founder of FWC, projected India’s potential to evolve as an entrepreneurial economy, complementing China’s dominance as a global manufacturing hub. Mr. Mananathan, Chairman of Manatech Group of Companies, drew attention to the high rate of startup failures in India and advocated for strong mentoring systems led by experienced industrialists.
Mr. Gunasekaran, Chairman of GOPIO, highlighted the opportunities and risks inherent in entrepreneurship, urging students to embrace resilience while navigating challenges.
The event was enriched by the Chief Guest’s address from Mr. Alexander Dodonov, Director of the Russian Centre of Science & Culture and Vice Consul of Russia. Referring to the participants as “young scientists,” he encouraged the creation of innovative products tailored to the Russian market, offering avenues to strengthen Indo-Russian trade relations.
Following the inaugural session, the symposium transitioned into an interactive panel discussion moderated by Prof. B. Charumathi, Director of ACIC PUSH & Coordinator of the PU Start-up Club. Mr. Vishwanathan Rajendran, Founder of Launch2US, introduced the panel of accomplished speakers, which included:
Dr. Kavitha Sairam, Founder & CEO, FIB-SOL Life Technologies, Dr. Hudson Hyde, Founder & CEO, Faucone Group, Dr. Shivakiran, Director, Infin8 Foundation, Mr. Jay Amaran, Angel Investor, The Forever Group, Mr. Karunanidhi, Founder, KCCCS
Each panelist shared their personal entrepreneurial journey and insights, offering students valuable perspectives on innovation, risk management, and resilience.
The symposium provided a dynamic platform for budding entrepreneurs to engage directly with successful business leaders, reinforcing Pondicherry University’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through initiatives such as PUSH and the Start-up Club.