VIDYA FESTx 2023 Showcases the Power of Technology in Empowering Communities and Addressing Social Issues
VIDYAIntegrated Development for Youth and Adults held its annual event, FESTx. The event was graced by esteemed guests, including the Founder President of VIDYA, Rashmi Misra, Prof. Ashok Misra, Advisor and Finance Committee Member of VIDYA, Vice Chair VIDYA Mumbai Dr Nayan Dabholkar, the Chief Guest, Mr Ashank Desai, Founder Chairman of Mastek Ltd & Advisory Board Member of VIDYA Mumbai, Prof. S. V. Kulkarni, Dean-Administrative Affairs at IIT Bombay, Ms Bella Sharma, Executive Board member VIDYA Mumbai, Ms Mehala Nagarajah Director Digital Pan India, Ms Priyanka Mathur COO Vidya Mumbai, Ms Deepa Shetiya Program Head Bhavishyaan initiative.
During the inaugural ceremony, the Founder President of VIDYA, Rashmi Misra emphasized the importance of digital technology and how VIDYA Mumbai is leading the way in this field. Prof. Ashok Misra, Advisor and Finance Committee Member of VIDYA, shared his support and conveyed that the only limitation to progress is our imagination, encouraging young people to dream big. The Chief Guest, Mr Ashank Desai, Founder Chairman of Mastek Ltd & Advisory Board Member of VIDYA Mumbai, spoke about the digital divide in our country and how VIDYA's efforts are addressing this concern. He further emphasized that technology has the potential to enrich our lives and open doors of innovation that will change the lives of children and their families for generations to come.
Guest of honour, Prof. S. V. Kulkarni, Dean-Administrative Affairs at IIT Bombay, commended the work done by VIDYA, stating that learning and education are essential, but it is equally important to learn humanity and value education. Dr Nayan Dabholkar, Vice President of VIDYA Mumbai, shared the organization's goal to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, artists, and mathematicians by providing a platform for them to explore and experiment with STEAM. "We hope to spark their curiosity and help them develop the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century," he said.
VIDYA FESTx 2023 showcased 60 projects, with participation from 300 students and 3000 visitors. This year's theme focused on Carbon Footprint, the International Year of Millets, and various SDGs. Mehala Nagarajah, Digital Director at VIDYA, shared her excitement about the event, stating, "We're thrilled to have provided a platform for students to showcase their talents and creativity. We hope that the event has inspired visitors to think about how they can contribute to making the world a better place."
"Empowering Communities through Technology. The goal of our NGO is to create a more equitable and just world, and we believe that technology can help us achieve that goal. By using technology to bridge the digital divide, we can ensure that everyone has access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.” said Priyanka Mathur, COO of VIDYA Mumbai in her address. The event was compered by Mr Ankit Bhuptani.
