The Department of Commerce (PG and Research Centre), in association with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Poona College of Arts, Science and Commerce, organized an Entrepreneurship Development Programme titled “Be Your Own Boss” on 9th October 2025 in the Conference Hall of the college. The event aimed to inspire students to embrace entrepreneurship as a career choice and to cultivate the skills required for self-employment and business leadership. More than 100 students from various streams actively participated in the session.
The programme commenced at 8:30 a.m. with a warm welcome address by Dr. Nasrin Khan, Head of the Department of Commerce. In her address, she highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship in driving innovation, generating employment, and contributing to the nation’s economic growth. She encouraged students to develop creativity, confidence, and a problem-solving attitude to become successful entrepreneurs in the future.
The theme of the programme was introduced by Dr. Hamed Hashmi, who elaborated on the idea of “Be Your Own Boss” as a call for independence, innovation, and self-reliance. He emphasized that entrepreneurship is not merely about starting a business but about cultivating leadership, resilience, and social responsibility. His insightful presentation effectively set the tone for the event.
Following this, Ms. Asiya Shaikh introduced the Chief Guest, Ms. Mohini Gurav, a distinguished entrepreneur and motivational speaker known for her contributions to women’s empowerment and business mentoring. In her inspiring address, Ms. Gurav shared her entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges she faced and how perseverance, passion, and innovation helped her succeed. She motivated students to think creatively, take calculated risks, and transform their ideas into sustainable ventures.
The programme was honored by the presence of Dr. Iqbal N. Shaikh, Principal of Poona College, who appreciated the efforts of the Department of Commerce and IQAC for organizing such a meaningful and skill-oriented event. In his address, he emphasized that entrepreneurship plays a pivotal role in national progress and that young graduates must equip themselves with entrepreneurial competencies to contribute effectively to society.
The event was coordinated by Dr. Riyasat Peerzade and Ms. Sakshi Satav, who ensured smooth execution and active student participation throughout the session. Anchoring was skillfully done by Ms. Asiya Shaikh, who maintained the event’s energy and engagement. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Simran Shaikh, expressing gratitude to the Chief Guest, Principal, faculty members, and students for their enthusiastic involvement and support.
The session concluded at 10:30 a.m., leaving the participants inspired and motivated to pursue entrepreneurial ventures with renewed zeal. Overall, the “Be Your Own Boss” Entrepreneurship Development Programme was a highly enriching and impactful initiative that reinforced the college’s commitment to nurturing innovation, leadership, and self-employment among commerce students.
