Coimbatore: The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International School of Textiles and Management (SVPISTM) organised an orientation programme for first semester undergraduate students at its auditorium here in August, marking the start of the academic journey for the new batch.

Director Dr. P. Alli Rani, delivering the presidential address, highlighted the significance of the first day in shaping a student's future. She outlined the importance of the textile industry, the country's second largest sector after agriculture, and its wide-ranging career opportunities. She also urged parents to support their wards in pursuing their aspirations.

Smt. Roop Rashi Mahapatra, Chief Executive Officer, Khadi and Village Industries Commission, Ministry of MSME, in her keynote address, emphasised the value of hard work in achieving goals and encouraged students to explore the textile sector with a broad perspective. She spoke about government efforts to create synergies, increase value returns to farmers, and promote capacity development in diverse product varieties.

Guest of Honour Shri Kantilal G. Vora, Founder of Sheetal Cottex India Pvt. Ltd., recalled his arrival in Coimbatore in 1971 in pursuit of his dreams and shared insights from his five-decade association with the textile industry. He urged students to keep abreast of new processes, adapt to industry advancements, and contribute to the growth of the Khadi sector through their knowledge and skills.

The programme aimed to inspire students to embrace learning, innovation, and industry engagement as they embark on their academic and professional journey.