SMVITM Hosts MOU Signing and Workshop on ‘Building a Brand Through Stories’

The Indian Society for Training and Development (ISTD) Mangalore/Udupi Chapter took a significant step towards strengthening industry-academia collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Shri Madhwa Vadiraja Institute of Technology and Management (SMVITM), Bantakal, Udupi. The event, hosted at the MBA Block of SMVITM, was followed by an insightful workshop on ‘Building a Brand Through Stories,’ led by renowned speaker Sharada Koti.

ISTD MOU with SMVITM

A Partnership for Knowledge Sharing

The session commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Suraj Francis Noronha, Professor and Director of MBA at SMVITM and National Committee Member of ISTD Mangalore/Udupi Chapter. Dr. Noronha underscored the importance of industry-academic collaborations in enhancing professional training and development opportunities.

Brian Fernandes, Chair of ISTD Mangalore/Udupi Chapter, emphasized the mutual benefits of the partnership, particularly for faculty and students looking to sharpen their skills and broaden their exposure to industry-driven learning.

Formalizing the Collaboration

At 10:30 AM, the MOU was officially signed between ISTD Mangalore/Udupi Chapter and SMVITM. This agreement aims to foster knowledge-sharing, skill development, and training initiatives for students and professionals in the region. A group photograph marked the milestone, capturing the commitment of both institutions towards this shared vision.

**Workshop: ‘Building a Brand Through Stories’ **

Following the signing ceremony, an engaging workshop was conducted by branding and storytelling expert, Sharada Koti for MBA students of SMVITM. The session, which began at 11:15 AM, provided valuable insights into the art of storytelling in building a brand. Key takeaways included:

✅ Understanding Brand & Storytelling – A brand is more than just a name; it is shaped by the stories it tells and the emotions it evokes.

✅ The Essence of Storytelling – Effective storytelling requires authenticity, emotional connection, and relevance.

✅ Bridging Brand & Narration – Well-crafted stories enhance brand perception, audience engagement, and long-term impact.

✅ The Power of Brand Narratives – Real-life examples demonstrating how storytelling builds trust and influences decision-making.

✅ Leadership & Storytelling – How narratives inspire teams and shape organizational culture.

✅ Crafting a Personal Brand – Using storytelling to build an authentic and influential professional identity.

Workshop at SMVITM by Sharada Koti

The workshop was highly interactive, with participants sharing their experiences and discussing ways to apply storytelling techniques in their professional journeys.

Engaging Q&A Session

A dynamic Q&A session followed, where attendees posed thought-provoking questions on:

  • How storytelling can enhance personal brand building.
  • Overcoming challenges in crafting an impactful brand story.
  • Measuring the impact of narratives on personal and professional success.

Participants benefited from expert insights on applying these principles effectively in their respective fields.

Closing Remarks

The event concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Steevan Robert Tellis, Assistant Professor at SMVITM, who extended gratitude to the speaker and attendees for their active participation. Brian Fernandes, on behalf of ISTD, reiterated the significance of such knowledge-sharing initiatives.

The session wrapped up with an inspiring quote from Michael Margolis: “The stories we tell literally make the world. If you want to change the world, you need to change your story. This truth applies both to individuals and institutions.” The event officially concluded at 1:00 PM.

Extending the Collaboration to Poorna Prajna Institute of Management, Udupi

As the MBA session progressed, ISTD Mangalore/Udupi Chapter signed a similar MOU with Poorna Prajna Institute of Management (PIM), Udupi. A delegation of ISTD members, including Brian Fernandes (Chair), Preetham Kamath (Vice Chair), Shivani Baliga (Secretary), Peter Pinto (Treasurer), Niveditha Mirajkar (National Outreach Coordinator, ISTD), and Shavina Soans (ISTD Member), visited PIM and engaged in discussions with Dr. P.S. Aithal, Director of PIM. The MOU was signed, strengthening ISTD’s commitment to fostering professional development in academic institutions.

ISTD MOU with PIM Dr Aithal

ISTD – Mangalore/Udupi Chapter

Establishment and Mission

The Indian Society for Training & Development (ISTD), Mangalore/Udupi Chapter, was established on March 22, 2018 and is part of the nationwide organization by the same name.Its mission is to facilitate continuous learning and growth through regular training sessions and personality development programs.

Activities and Offerings

The ISTD Mangalore/Udupi Chapter is a community dedicated to lifelong learning and professional excellence. The ISTD Mangalore/Udupi Chapter is committed to assisting individuals who believe that learning is essential for personal and professional growth.

The Chapter provides:

  • Regular and Varied Training Programs for its members, institutions, and corporates on a free/paid basis. These training sessions are designed to enhance skills and knowledge in various fields.
  • Personality Development Programs that focus on improving personal attributes, communication skills, and overall personality.
  • A Professional Interaction and Networking Platform for professional interactions and individual growth as trainers.
  • Brainstorming Sessions led by experts to address issues of both national and international significance, fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange and professional development.
  • The PGP-TL&D program, conducted by the Indian Society for Training and Development (ISTD), is a 15-month structured learning experience designed to enhance competencies in Training, Learning, and Development. It includes two semesters of six months each, followed by a three-month project phase. The program is conducted online on Sundays, with optional in-person sessions. Participants receive recorded sessions, PowerPoint presentations, e-books, and reference materials to ensure a flexible and self-paced learning environment suitable for working professionals and students.ISTD PGPTL&D

Launched in April 1979, the program meets the growing demand for structured training in learning and development. It caters to professionals across industries, including HR, sales, IT, finance, and operations, as well as students exploring training and development as a career path. The curriculum covers instructional design, adult learning principles, facilitation techniques, and modern learning technologies, equipping participants with skills to design and deliver effective training programs, evaluate learning outcomes, and foster a culture of continuous development.

The cost of the program varies based on membership status and institutional policies, with general category fees at ₹60,000 + 18% GST, while ISTD Life Members, Armed Forces, and reserved category candidates pay a reduced fee of ₹50,000 + 18% GST. A one-time registration fee of ₹500 is applicable, with flexible installment payment options available. Interested candidates can apply online via ISTD’s official website.

Looking Ahead

With these collaborations in place, ISTD Mangalore/Udupi Chapter is poised to play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations. The MOUs pave the way for future training programs, workshops, and networking opportunities, benefiting students, faculty, and professionals alike.

Stay tuned for more updates on ISTD’s upcoming initiatives and collaborative programs!