The Department of Commerce, St. John College of Humanities and Sciences (Autonomous),  successfully organized the Inauguration of the Commerce Association for the academic year  2025–26 on 20th March 2026 at 9:30 a.m. The event was conducted with the objective of  formally establishing the Commerce Association and introducing its structure, objectives, and  activities to students of FYBCom, SYBCom, and TYBCom. The association aims to provide a  platform for enhancing academic excellence, developing professional skills, and encouraging  participation in various commerce-related academic and co-curricular activities such as  seminars, workshops, guest lectures, and competitions. 

The programme commenced with a Campus Prayer, invoking blessings for the success of the  event, followed by the Lighting of the Lamp (Deep Prajwalan) and Saraswati Vandana,  symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. The Opening Remarks were delivered by  Asst. Prof. Ms. Vedika Raut, who warmly welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the  importance of the Commerce Association in shaping students’ academic and professional  growth. Dr. Priya Chaurasiya, Head of the Department of Commerce, formally introduced the  Commerce Association and announced the Student Office Bearers, encouraging them to take  up leadership roles and responsibilities. 

The event was graced by the esteemed Chief Guest, Dr. Reuben Buthello, CEO of Bharat Coach  Builders Pvt. Ltd., MIDC Taloja, Mumbai, who was formally introduced and felicitated as a  mark of respect and appreciation. The Commerce Association was then officially inaugurated,  marking the beginning of its activities for the academic year. The Chief Guest conducted an  informative session on cryptocurrency, wherein he explained the concept of digital currencies,  their relevance in the modern financial system, and encouraged students to develop practical  knowledge and stay updated with emerging trends in finance and technology. 

The Principal, Dr. Muktha Manoj Jacob, addressed the gathering and emphasized the  importance of such initiatives in enhancing students’ overall development and industry  readiness. The formal programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks, expressing sincere  gratitude to all dignitaries, faculty members, and students for their presence and support. 

The event further included the Introduction of Alumni, followed by their felicitation in  recognition of their achievements. An interactive session conducted by the alumni provided 

valuable insights into career opportunities, professional growth, and real-world experiences,  thereby benefiting the students immensely. 

The Commerce Association for the academic year 2025–26 comprises student office bearers  including Ms. Diya Mistry (President), Ms. Jasmine Lediyal (Vice-President), Ms. Fatema  Chittalwala (Secretary), and Mr. Krutarth Kashikar (Joint Secretary). The student  representatives include Mr. Alan Edvin Moraes, Ms. Anjali Chaudhary, Ms. Pratiksha Singh,  and Ms. Natania D’Souza from FYBCom, and Ms. Arpita Saha, Ms. Sanika Sankhe, Ms. Nirali  Rathod, Mr. Christopher Fernandes, and Ms. Siddhi Sankhe from SYBCom. All students of the  Department of Commerce are enrolled as general members of the association. 

The inauguration programme proved to be highly successful in achieving its objectives. It  enhanced awareness among students regarding the association, encouraged leadership and  teamwork, provided exposure to emerging financial trends such as cryptocurrency, and  strengthened the bond between students, faculty, and alumni. The event marked the beginning  of a dynamic academic journey and is expected to significantly contribute to the holistic  development of commerce students.