Mangaluru: The Department of Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce, and Management (YIASCM), under Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), inaugurated its Entrepreneurship Cell (E-Cell) on Thursday at the YMK Auditorium, Kulur Campus, marking a significant initiative to promote startup culture and entrepreneurial thinking among students.

A symbolic beginning to an entrepreneurial journey

The inauguration commenced with a solemn opening session led by Ms. Sahana M, Assistant Professor, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. The programme began with a prayer and scripture recitation by first-year MBA student Mr. Ansar Ali, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by dignitaries, symbolising a new beginning for innovation and enterprise at the institute.

Ms. Saloni Rafeek, Lecturer in the Department of MBA, delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for the event. This was followed by an introductory note on the E-Cell by Mr. Akash S. Savalasang, Associate Professor, who outlined its vision, objectives, and future activities aimed at nurturing student-led ventures.

Institutional commitment and collaborative support

Prof. Niyaz Panakaje, Coordinator of YEN-REFINED (Yenepoya Research Centre for Finance and Entrepreneurship Development) and the MBA programme, emphasised the institute’s long-term commitment to fostering entrepreneurship. He highlighted collaborations with YUHUB, TAPMI Innovation and Entrepreneurship Cell, and Yenepoya Technology Incubator as pillars of a strong support ecosystem for aspiring student entrepreneurs.

Industry and expert perspectives

The Chief Guest, Dr. Iswar Haridas, Associate Professor and Head of the T.A. Pai Center for Sustainability and Competitiveness, TAPMI (MAHE, Manipal), delivered a compelling keynote on the role of sustainability in entrepreneurship. He spoke about building competitive ecosystems and the transformative capacity of student-led startups in creating social and economic impact.

Mr. Asim Syed Sheeraz, CEO of Yenepoya Technology Incubator, served as the Guest of Honour. He elaborated on the incubation process, sharing how students can access mentoring, resources, and institutional backing to evolve their ideas into scalable businesses.

Prof. Jeevan Raj, Principal (In-charge), delivered the presidential address, applauding the establishment of the E-Cell as a progressive academic initiative that opens new avenues for student development, innovation, and leadership.

Engaging expert sessions inspire students

The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Vinayraj R, followed by a group photograph with dignitaries and participants. Over 150 students and faculty members attended the event.

The day also featured two expert talks that further enriched the learning experience:

  • Session 1: From Campus to Unicorn: Empowering Youth to Build Scalable Startups by Dr. Iswar Haridas — focused on the entrepreneurial mindset, the journey from ideation to execution, and case studies of unicorn startups.

  • Session 2: Startup Ecosystem and Entrepreneurship by Ms. Pooja Acharya, Founder of Digitallence, Mangalore — addressed digital business models, branding, funding strategies, and common challenges faced by startups.

    • Both sessions witnessed active engagement, with students interacting enthusiastically and posing thoughtful questions to the speakers.

    E-Cell sets mission for future growth

    The Entrepreneurship Cell has been officially launched with a clear mission to support student innovators through regular workshops, mentorship programmes, and incubation support. The event concluded on a positive note, with students and faculty expressing strong interest in participating in future E-Cell activities.

    This inauguration marks a milestone in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation-driven learning at YIASCM.