The CII-IWN Campus to Career Vertical, Salem Zone, in association with Paavai Educational Institutions, organized a two-day programme titled “Empowering Minds, Building Careers” on 28.08.2026 and 29.08.2026 at Ananda Arangam, Paavai Nagar, Pachal, Namakkal. The programme aimed to provide students with practical knowledge and skills related to entrepreneurship, freelancing, artificial intelligence, interview preparation, and goal setting.
The programme began with the welcome address by Dr. M. Premkmar, Principal, Paavai Engineering College, who welcomed the dignitaries, resource persons, faculty members, and students. Dr. K.K. Ramasamy, Director – Administration, Paavai Institutions, delivered the presidential address on the first day and highlighted the importance of developing an entrepreneurial mindset and professional skills among students.
Ms. Aishwarya, Convener, CII-IWN Salem Zone, Founder, Biounicornz, and Co-Founder, Ra Origins, Salem, addressed the gathering and spoke about the initiatives of CII-IWN. She encouraged students to actively participate in the programme and make use of the opportunities provided.
Ms. Arasi Arul, Founder & CEO, 60 Plus Global, Serial Entrepreneur, Investor, and TEDx Speaker, Chennai, conducted a session on “Basics of Starting Your Business: Entrepreneurship & Everything.” She explained the basics of entrepreneurship, identifying business opportunities, developing ideas, and starting a business. She encouraged students to consider entrepreneurship as a career option.
Ms. G. Meenakshi Devi, Founder, Meekshi Consultancy and HR & Business Strategy Consultant, Pondicherry, conducted a session on “Planning a Startup & Freelancing.” She explained the basic steps involved in planning a startup and shared the opportunities available in freelancing. She emphasized the importance of skill development, planning, and professional growth.
On the second day, Shri. N.V. Natarajan, Founder & Chairman, Paavai Institutions, delivered the presidential address and emphasized the importance of developing industry-relevant skills and continuously improving knowledge and abilities.
Mr. Vinay Deep Arcot, Security Product Leader and AI Native PM, Telecom-Scale, Bangalore, conducted a session on “AI and Security: Friend, Fighter or Foe.” He explained the role of Artificial Intelligence, its benefits and challenges, and the importance of security and responsible use of technology.
Dr. M. Arun, Human Potential Assessor, Independent Director, Mentor & Coach, Chennai, conducted a session on “Critical Skills and Acing Interview.” He highlighted the importance of communication, confidence, teamwork, problem-solving, and other employability skills. He also shared useful tips for facing interviews successfully.
Ms. Dilshad Azim, Strategic Senior, HR & Diversity Specialist, Chair/Convener, CII-IWN Chennai Zone, Chennai, conducted a session on “Goal Setting.” She explained the importance of setting clear goals and working consistently towards achieving them. She encouraged students to have a clear vision for their personal and professional growth.
The programme concluded with a feedback session, where students shared their experiences and learning.
Mrs. Mangai Natarajan, Correspondent, Paavai Institutions, felicitated the programme, followed by the Vote of Thanks.
Overall, the “Empowering Minds, Building Careers” programme was an informative and useful initiative that provided students with valuable knowledge about entrepreneurship, freelancing, AI, interview skills, and goal setting. The programme helped students gain confidence, develop essential career skills, and prepare themselves for their future careers.
