Career Guidance Seminar
organised by Eco Foundation and Mahalaxmi Vikas Seva Samiti - A Step Towards
Bright Future
An
important and inspiring Career Guidance Seminar was jointly organised by
ECHO Foundation and Mahalaxmi Vikas Seva Samiti in Mumbai on May 31, 2025. The aim
of the event was to guide students of 10th, 12th and college level to choose
the right academic and career path.
The
seminar was addressed by renowned career counsellor Mr. Hiren Pasad who gave
in-depth information about the various academic streams and opportunities
available in today's dynamic world. His presentation was comprehensive,
engaging and designed to meet the practical concerns of both students and their
parents.
๐ง Discussion on Major Streams
๐จ 1. Kala - Ancient Education System
Shri
Hiren Pasad started with a practical explanation of Kala stream, explaining
that it is one of the oldest education systems in India. He traced this back to
the Gurukul system, where boys were taught 64 types of arts and girls 70 types
of arts, including music, dance, literature, painting, sculpture, debate,
ethics and leadership. He emphasised that today's arts stream also fosters
creativity and offers careers in journalism, law, languages, psychology, public
administration and more.
๐งช 2. Science - Path to Technology and
Medicine
The
science stream was explained as the gateway to professional fields like
engineering, medicine, architecture and research. Students were informed about
various entrance exams like:
ยทJEE
(Joint Entrance Examination) for engineering,
ยทNEET
(National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) for medical,
ยทNATA
(National Aptitude Test in Architecture) for architecture.
He
explained that each stream within science โ PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) or
PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) โ opens different doors and explained the
importance of preparing well in advance.
๐ผ 3. Commerce โ The World of Business and
Finance
Mr.
Hiren Pasad discussed commerce in detail as the foundation of the banking,
finance and business sectors. He gave information about career options such as:
ยทCA
(Chartered Accountant)
ยทCS
(Company Secretary)
ยทICWA
(Cost & Works Accountancy)
He
also discussed B.Com, BBA, MBA, CFA and other finance-related professional
courses, their admission processes and long-term benefits.
๐ General and Vocational Courses
Apart
from the main streams, students were informed about several vocational courses,
such as:
ยทB.Sc
in Computer Science and IT
ยทB.Sc
in Interior Design
ยทB.Sc
in Mass Media (BMM)
ยทBMS
(Bachelor of Management Studies)
These
are modern, skill-based programmes that cater to the needs of the tech and
media industries.
๐ ๏ธ Diploma and Polytechnic Options
For
students looking for practical and job-oriented training, the speaker
highlighted the following:
Diploma courses in engineering and medical fields
10+3+2 pattern and lateral entry options
Double
certificate courses, which allow students to master two skill sets
simultaneously, thereby increasing employability.
๐๏ธ Guidance for Competitive Exams
A
significant portion of the seminar was dedicated to Government Services, where
students were informed about the following:
ยทUPSC
(Union Public Service Commission) for IAS, IPS, IFS
ยทMPSC
(Maharashtra Public Service Commission)
Preparation
strategies, syllabus, and career prospects in civil services
This
section was especially inspiring for those who want to serve the nation and
attain the prestigious administrative post.
๐ Student Felicitation Ceremony
At
the end of the session, more than 40 students and their parents actively
participated and interacted with the speaker. Students who had successfully
cleared their 10th and 12th exams were felicitated by the organising bodies
with congratulatory messages, encouraging them to pursue higher education with
confidence.
๐ฌ Concluding Thoughts
This
seminar was not just an information session but a guiding light for many
students at a crucial juncture of their lives. It helped them and their parents
understand the vast ocean of opportunities, how to prepare for them, and how to
combine them with their skills and interests.
ECHO Foundation and Mahalaxmi Vikas Seva Samiti deserve a
heartfelt appreciation for organising such a thoughtful and empowering event.
In today's competitive world, such guidance can be life changing, and this
seminar has certainly sown the seeds of ambition and clarity in the minds of
young students of Mumbai.
In honor of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkarโs birth date, the ECHO
Foundation team took time out to visit old age homes and care for those in
need, by distributing saris and spending time with elderly residents, they not
only provided physical comfort but more importantly, companionship. Sharing
meals, saying kind words, and listening to the stories of the elders at home,
speak volumes about the power of human relationships.
From childhood to old age, we witness the flow of time in
life โ each stage has its own joys and challenges. Childhood is often full of
vitality, energy, and exploration. But as time passes, we all inevitably have
to face the reality of aging. In old age the body weakens, and many abilities
that we previously took for granted โ such as walking, speaking, or thinking โ
diminish.
*Yet, it is not just physical changes that shape the
experience of aging; it is the emotional and social aspects that really
determine how we age. The support of family and children at this stage of life
can make a huge difference. When loved ones stay with us, when children respect
and care for their aging parents, life in old age can be full of comfort,
dignity, and love. However, reality is not always so kind. As seen in films
such as Vanvas and Rui Ka Boj, when family is absent or fails to provide the
necessary care, old age can become an isolating and miserable experience. We
were very happy to visit the old age home.*
*Present at the event were Nayana Behen, Neeta Behen, Varsha
Behen, Nirmala Behen and Rambha Behen*
Celebrating January 26 with colours and creativity: A painting event at Shiv Veer Society
Indiaโs Republic Day, celebrated on January 26, is a day of pride, unity and celebration. Across the country, flag salutes, cultural performances and community events mark the occasion. At Shiv Veer Society located in Charkop, Kandivali, Mumbai, this yearโs celebrations included a unique and enjoyable activity: a painting event for children.
Around 40 enthusiastic child artists gathered to unleash their creativity and celebrate the spirit of the nation through colours. The event not only honored Republic Day but also emphasized the joy and therapeutic benefits of painting.
The Joy of Painting
Painting is one of the most loved forms of expression. For children, it is a great way to communicate their feelings, thoughts and dreams without the barriers of words. With brushes, colours and canvases in hand, the children of Shiv Veer Society painted everything from the Indian flag and iconic landmarks to imaginative scenes that reflect their vibrant minds.
Positive impact on mind and body
Engaging in painting has a profound impact on mental and physical health. It is a meditative activity that helps reduce stress and promote happiness. The concentration required to paint sharpens focus, while the creative process enhances problem-solving skills and emotional expression. In addition, painting has a soothing effect on the eyes and mind, providing a sense of peace and clarity.
A celebration of unity and talent
The painting event at Shiv Veer Society brought together children from different backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. Their creations not only celebrated the beauty of India, but also highlighted the unique perspectives and talents of each participant. Parents and society members admired the artworks, appreciating the effort and creativity of the young artists.
The spirit of Republic Day
Through this activity, the children learned the importance of freedom, unity, and expression โ values โโthat resonate deeply with the essence of Republic Day. The event served as a reminder that nurturing creativity in children is essential to shaping a brighter and more harmonious future.
Conclusion
The painting event at Shiv Veer Society was a testament to the power of art in bringing people together and spreading joy. When children painted their imaginations, they not only celebrated the national holiday but also discovered the joy and peace that colors bring to life. Such events not only enrich communities but also inspire young minds to dream big and think creatively โ a true reflection of the vibrant spirit of India.
January 25 is celebrated as National Girl Child Day, the main objective of which is to create awareness about the rights, importance and empowerment of girls. On this day, the ECHO Foundation team took a special initiative and visited a kindergarten and provided a beautiful example of spending time with young children.
During the visit, the ECHO Foundation team interacted with the children in their language, so that the children felt comfortable and felt special. Along with trying to bring smiles to the faces of the children, the team also served a sweet snack, which made the children feel affection and love along with entertainment.
This activity not only made the children happy but also made the members of ECHO Foundation feel full of joy. By spending time with the innocence and happiness of the children, the team touched upon the positive values โโof life.
This divine work is an inspiration for the society, which shows that even small efforts can sometimes bring big changes. By celebrating this day, we can focus our attention on the importance of girl children and encourage them to move forward in life. Hearty congratulations to the ECHO Foundation for this work and a salute to their efforts for a positive future for girl children!
Seminar on Civil-Surveyor
and Interior Studies at ITI, Bilimora - 18 January 2025
On 18 January 2025, a seminar was organized for students
pursuing Civil-Surveyor and Interior Studies at ITI, Bilimora. The objective of
the program was to enhance the knowledge and practical understanding of various
essential aspects of the field.
Key Features of the Seminar
The seminar brought together many eminent professionals who
shared their expertise with the students.
Mr. Arvind Viras:
Mr. Viras educated the students on the use of AutoCAD
software, which is an important tool for modern-day architects and engineers.
He also elaborated on the importance of understanding scale, open space,
wasteland and garden design in planning and designing projects.
Engineer Lahu Pednekar:
Engineer Pednekar provided valuable insights into the legal
and administrative aspects of civil projects. He discussed the following
topics:
7/12 Extract (detailed document of ownership of agricultural
land).
Property Card used to record ownership details.
Various government approvals and regulations required for
the implementation of construction projects. Also provided information on
Development Control Rules.
Engineer Dhanraj Magare:
Focusing on technical infrastructure, Engineer Magare shared
his expertise on essential services like electrical systems, fire extinguishing
installations and plumbing networks, emphasizing their important roles in
building safety and efficiency.
Engineer Shashikant Koyande:
Engineer Koyande played a key role in organizing and
presenting the seminar. His comprehensive presentation provided a clear
overview of the program, ensuring that the students remained engaged and
informed throughout the session.
ECHO FOUNDATION Team Varsha Behan:
Varsh Behan helped distribute the necessary stationery to
all the students
Conclusion
The seminar was a resounding success, providing a platform
for the students to broaden their knowledge and learn from experienced
professionals in the field. It served as a bridge between theoretical studies
and practical applications, providing a holistic understanding of
civil-surveying and interior design practices.
Such initiatives not only inspire the students but also
prepare them for real-world challenges, so that they are well equipped for
future endeavours in their respective careers.
Successful organization of "Forest Meal" program at Undach Dhodiawad Class School
A special and entertaining program was organized at **"Undach Dhodiawad Class School"** in Navsari district of Gujarat state on 28 December 2024. On this occasion, a "Forest Meal" program was organized to connect the students of the school with the uniqueness of the river and dedicate them to mutual cooperative practices.
**"Forest Meal"** main meaning is โ eating with the entire group, being aware of brotherhood and unity, and developing a sense of coordination and cooperation through mutual cooperation while preparing food.
In this program, all the students of the school sat down for the meal together and worked hard to coordinate the preparation of food and drinking drinks with the help of each other. The main objective of this program was to instill the feelings of "wholeness" and "cooperation" in the children. Such programs are very important for children to connect with their culture and traditions.
With the cooperation and guidance of the school teachers Mr. Maheshbhai, Sandeepbhai and all the staff members, this program was very successful. Under their guidance, the students worshipped the river and purified their souls with its holy water. Joy and satisfaction were clearly visible on the faces of the students.
On this occasion, special emphasis was laid on the importance of brotherhood and unity. The "One Meal" program was a priceless experience for the children. It created a new mantra and inspiration for unity and mutual cooperation in the children, which will be useful in their entire lives.
After this program, a strong foundation has been laid to increase cooperation, unity, brotherhood and mutual understanding in the children. Programs and efforts like "One Meal" provide the best platform for the children for their mental development.
With the special cooperation of teachers Maheshbhai, Sandeep bhai and the school staff, it is hoped to touch a new height in the field of education.
Seminar by Eco Foundation on
Plumbing and Electrical Systems at ITI Valsad:
Empowering Students with Essential
Knowledge
On November 23, 2024, the Eco
Foundation team organized a highly insightful seminar at ITI Valsad, aimed at
enriching the knowledge of students studying Plumbing and Electrical
Engineering. The seminar focused on crucial aspects of both the fields, with a
detailed explanation of their importance and practical applications in the
architectural and engineering fields. With the increasing demand for skilled
professionals in these fields, the event proved to be a valuable learning
experience for students preparing to enter the workforce.
Knowledge on Plumbing and
Electrical was imparted by Mr. Dhanesh Chatnani, a Civil Engineer with 35 years
of experience
Understanding the Role of
Plumbing and Electrical Systems
Plumbing and electrical systems are
integral components of both residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
These systems not only ensure the smooth functioning of day-to-day activities
but also play a crucial role in maintaining safety, comfort and efficiency in
the structure. The seminar, therefore, focuses on providing an in-depth
understanding of these topics, emphasizing on their design, installation and
maintenance.
Plumbing: Key Insights
The Plumbing session was dedicated
to explaining the different types of plumbing systemsโresidential, commercial
and industrialโand how they differ in terms of design, materials and
functionality. Students were introduced to essential concepts such as:
Designing Plumbing Systems: The
session covered the basic principles of designing plumbing systems for
different types of buildings. From pipe sizing to material selection, students
gained insight into how to create effective and sustainable plumbing layouts
that meet the specific needs of each type of structure.
Residential Plumbing:The focus was on residential plumbing systems, which
are typically simple in design but still require careful consideration for
water supply, drainage, and waste management.
Commercial and Industrial Plumbing:The seminar also highlighted
the complexities involved in designing plumbing systems for commercial and
industrial facilities. These systems require more advanced considerations,
including high-capacity pipes, specialized fixtures, and compliance with safety
regulations to accommodate increased demand.
Importance of Plumbing: The
importance of reliable plumbing was emphasized for ensuring clean water supply,
waste disposal, and sanitation in buildings. Students were encouraged to
understand the broader implications of their work, such as how plumbing can
contribute to sustainability and water conservation.
Electrical: Powering Infrastructure
The electrical session focused on
the importance of electrical systems, specifically wiring and power
distribution from substations to buildings. Some of the key topics discussed
included:
Electrical Wiring:Students learned about the intricacies of electrical
wiring, including cable selection, circuit design, and safety protocols. Proper
electrical design ensures that buildings have a safe and efficient power supply
with minimal risk of electrical hazards.
Substation Connections:A significant portion of the session was
dedicated to explaining the role of substations in the distribution of
electricity in residential, commercial, and industrial structures. Students
were introduced to the process of designing electrical systems that ensure a
stable, uninterrupted power supply while adhering to industry standards.
Safety and Compliance:Electrical safety was highlighted as a priority in
both residential and industrial settings. Students were educated on the
importance of following regulatory standards and conducting regular inspections
to ensure that electrical systems remain safe and functional.
Practical Career Insights
In addition to the technical
aspects, the seminar also provided valuable insights into career opportunities
in the plumbing and electrical fields. Addressing the growing demand for
skilled professionals, the Eco Foundation team encouraged students to excel and
continue learning, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the challenges they
will face in the industry.
The seminar was designed to provide
students with not only theoretical knowledge but also the practical skills they
need to succeed in their careers. The team also discussed how they can use
their expertise to design and maintain systems that contribute to the
sustainability and efficiency of modern infrastructure.
Thanks to the ITI Valsad team
The success of the seminar was
possible with the support of the ITI Valsad administration. Mr. Manoj
Mandaliya, Principal, ITI Valsad, played a key role in organizing the event,
ensuring that the students got such a valuable learning opportunity. Special
thanks are also extended to Mr. Kansara Saheb and Mr. Darshan Solanki for their
cooperation and contribution in the smooth conduct of the seminar.
The Eco Foundation team expressed
their gratitude to the faculty and staff of ITI Valsad for their dedication in
the fields of plumbing and electrical.
Much appreciated for their
continued commitment to empowering students with the skills and knowledge
required to bear fruit.
The seminar organized by Eco
Foundation at ITI Valsad was an excellent opportunity for students to gain
critical insight into the essential plumbing and electrical systems that form
the backbone of modern architecture and engineering. By addressing the
intricacies of designing and maintaining these systems, the seminar equips
students with a deeper understanding of their field and prepares them for their
future careers in a rapidly growing industry.
The collaboration between Eco
Foundation and ITI Valsad is a testament to the importance of such educational
initiatives that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world
applications. With the demand for skilled professionals in plumbing and
electrical engineering continuing to grow, this seminar served as a significant
step towards shaping the next generation of experts in these vital fields.
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