07/08/2026
The Department of Management Studies, Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), Belagavi, successfully concluded the 2-Day Management Development Program & Exposure Visit for CBSE School Principals with a meaningful valedictory ceremony that celebrated leadership, collaboration, and a shared commitment to educational excellence.
The valedictory session commenced with a warm Welcome Address by Dr. Prahlad Rathod, Chairperson, Department of Management Studies, who welcomed the dignitaries and participants while appreciating the enthusiastic participation of school leaders throughout the two-day programme.
A comprehensive report of the programme was presented by Mr. Saurabh Pote, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, highlighting the key technical sessions, interactions, discussions, and the exposure visit to VTU's Centres of Excellence that provided participants with valuable insights into the University's academic and research ecosystem.
Adding a personal dimension to the programme, three women Principals representing the participating CBSE schools shared their feedback, expressing their appreciation for the thoughtfully curated sessions, industry-relevant discussions, and the opportunity to witness VTU's state-of-the-art infrastructure. They acknowledged that the programme offered practical perspectives on institutional leadership, innovation, and academic excellence that they could implement in their respective schools.
The highlight of the ceremony was the inspiring address by Dr. Vidyashankar S., Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, VTU, Belagavi. Reflecting on his journey as Vice Chancellor, he shared how, upon assuming office, he envisioned transforming existing spaces within Silver Jubilee Bhavan, Vidya Bhavan, and the new laboratory complex. Facilities that were originally planned for administrative offices, data centres, storage rooms, and other support functions were thoughtfully reimagined into vibrant academic, research, and innovation spaces that now serve students, faculty, and researchers.
Addressing the participating Principals, Dr. Vidyashankar emphasized that leadership goes beyond administrative responsibilities. He encouraged school leaders not to remain confined to their offices but to actively explore every corner of their institutions, interact with teachers and students, and understand the functioning of their campuses. He remarked that only by being present on the ground can a leader truly identify opportunities for improvement and transformation.
Sharing a powerful leadership lesson, he urged every Principal to leave a meaningful footprint wherever they serve, so that their contributions continue to inspire long after they move on from the institution. He further encouraged all CBSE schools to pursue academic excellence, innovation, and national recognition, motivating the Principals to strive for prestigious awards in the education sector by fostering quality, creativity, and continuous improvement.
The programme concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by Dr. Deepti Shetty, Nodal Officer – CBSE and Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, who expressed gratitude to the Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, dignitaries, participating Principals, faculty members, organizing committee, student volunteers, and everyone who contributed to the success of the programme.
The valedictory ceremony concluded with the National Anthem, marking the successful completion of two enriching days dedicated to strengthening educational leadership, institutional collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence.
The Function was smoothly compeered by Chaitrali Bhandare
The Department of Management Studies, VTU, remains committed to creating meaningful platforms that empower educational leaders, encourage innovation, and build lasting partnerships between schools and higher education institutions.