The Commerce Department of Prajyoti Niketan College, celebrating its 10th anniversary, conducted an inter-departmental fest called "Com Fiesta 2k23" on September 21, 2023. The programme was intended to provide students with practical knowledge related to the theoretical concepts they have learned.

The inaugural ceremony was welcomed by Alan Lukose, HOD of Commerce; after that, Founder and Manager Rev. Dr. Harshajan Pazhayattil officially inaugurated the program. Principal Dr Binu P Chacko, Ceena Mathews, HOD of Computer Science, Jeetha Johny, HOD of English, Joseph P P, HOD of Electronics, Dr Binoj Jose IQAC Coordinator, and Dr Simi Varghese delivered the felicitation. Commerce Association Director Dr Renjith R delivered the vote of thanks.

In the advertisement contest "Ad Conquest," students were tasked with creating a one-minute advertisement within two hours for a product centred around the theme of 'organic." A marketing game named "Marketing Jest" was organised where students had to market products and create presentations of innovative product ideas. This event served as a practical skill development session, allowing students to apply the marketing theories they had learned theoretically. The "Potter Brains" quiz competition challenged students' memory and intellectual abilities. It was an entertaining and intellectually stimulating event. "Mystery Trails," a treasure hunt game, was organised in which teams had to solve riddles, mazes, and complete crosswords to progress to the final level. In the final stages, they had access to the entire college campus, where they searched for the treasure. As a part of the fest "El Classico" football competition was held. It involved a penalty shootout session in which a three-member team could participate. This game aimed to assess the physical skills of the students.

Various stalls from different departments were set up in the office block, with students independently managing their own stalls. This initiative aimed to provide a platform for students to showcase their entrepreneurial skills, fostering self-reliance and initiative among students. Additionally, game zones were set up to make the events enjoyable for everyone.

The event was a great success, with more than 250 students from the college taking an active part in the competitions.

Adheena Thomas, a 3rd year student, said, "The programme was truly motivating for every student. It stimulated our thought process and fostered team spirit among students. We gained practical experience in implementing theoretical concepts like organising, leadership, planning, communication, etc. This was one of the best college experiences ever."

Abhini N B, the student coordinator, welcomed the prize distribution ceremony. The prize money was awarded to the winners by the principal, Dr. Binu P Chacko. Winners: Ad conquest - Anik and Ajith (3rd year English), Marketing game - Angel, Amal, Anson and Ance (3rd-year Psychology), Potter Brains quiz competition - Shahana and Katherine, Treasure Hunt - Dhruvika, Anjali and Gopika (2nd-year Computer Science), Football shoot out - Sooryan, Ahishek and Christo(2nd-year Electronics). The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Aloshious K J, 3dc student.

Metty Francis, 3rd year student said, "The fest provided a platform for students from all departments to showcase their managerial talents by participating in various competitions designed to highlight their skills. We gained insight into everything from creativity to innovation, planning to strategy, and the balance between fun and learning through a variety of management activities and competitions. This experience helped us develop into future leaders and excel in the fields of management."

(The author is a second-year Bachelor of Commerce student at Prajyoti Niketan College, reporting for Onmanorama as part of our campus outreach programme, Onmanorama Campus Reporter.)