Organized by: Department of Civil Engineering, Saintgits College of Engineering
Vision of the Department: Emerge as a centre of excellence in civil engineering education and research by fostering innovation, inclusivity and upholding the highest standards of quality, integrity and responsibility for building a sustainable and progressive world.
Mission of the Department:
- To create a vibrant ecosystem, that emphasises high-quality education, fosters research and innovation, and promotes lifelong learning
- To mould responsible civil engineers, with ethical values, essential industry skills and commitment to sustainable infrastructure development
- To develop entrepreneurial skills, leadership qualities, and the ability to succeed in a multidisciplinary environment
Date: February 7, 2026
Time: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Venue: Saintgits College of Engineering, Kottayam (VB Seminar Hall)
Number of Participants: 36 Students from various institutions
- St.Mary’s HSS,Manarcadu
- Govt.Technical High School,Kurichy
- JMHSS,Vakathanam
- Placid Vidya Vihar Senior Secondary School
Introduction
The Department of Civil Engineering at Saintgits College of Engineering successfully conducted DISHA 2025-26, an orientation program designed to introduce higher secondary high school students to various academic and career opportunities in engineering. The event took place on February 7, 2026, and was attended by a total of 36 students from multiple schools across the region. The program provided a comprehensive understanding of engineering pathways, highlighted by expert talks, interactive competitions, and a campus tour. The theme of the event, Pathway to Future Horizons, aimed to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities in the field of engineering.
The initiative aligns strongly with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 – Quality Education, by promoting inclusive and equitable access to quality technical education and fostering informed academic decision-making among higher secondary students. By creating early exposure to engineering disciplines, DISHA 2025–26 contributed toward strengthening foundational awareness and encouraging lifelong learning opportunities.
Furthermore, the program reflects the spirit of SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, through collaborative engagement between the institution and participating schools. By building
meaningful institutional–school partnerships, DISHA fostered knowledge sharing, academic outreach, and cooperative efforts aimed at empowering students and strengthening the educational ecosystem.
Objectives
The key objectives of DISHA 2025-26 were:
- To familiarize students with potential career paths in engineering and technology.
- To provide insights into the latest trends in digital engineering and technological advancements.
- To engage students in hands-on activities, fostering a deeper interest in engineering.
- To create awareness about various engineering fields and help students make informed decisions about their future.
Participants
A total of 36 students participated in DISHA 2025-26. These students were from both government and private schools and technical institutions. The program was specifically designed to engage students who were about to make decisions regarding their academic and career directions after completing their higher secondary education. The event was highly interactive, encouraging students to participate actively in all sessions and activities.
Program Agenda
4.1. Inaugural Session
The event began with a formal inaugural function at 9:30 AM, which included: Silent Prayer to mark the beginning of the day.
Welcome address by Er.Arsha Giri, Faculty Coordinator.
Presidential Address by Dr. Susan Rose, Head of the Department of Civil Engineering.
Overview of DISHA 2024 by Er.Minu Antony, Faculty Coordinator
Vote of Thanks by, Sivasree A, Student Coordinator.
4.2. Expert Sessions
The day included two expert sessions designed to inspire and inform the participants:
Session 1: From Student to Professionsl:Skills that matter by Er. Vinay Mathew John, Chief Training Officer, Saintgits skill and learning centre, Pathamuttom
Session 2: Engineering in real life-How ideas become impact by Dr. Reebu Zachariah Koshy, Professor & Director, Institutional Development, Saintgits College of Engineering.
4.3. Campus Walk & 3D Printing Demonstration
Participants were given a tour of the campus facilities, where they witnessed the latest
advancements in 3D printing technology in the concrete lab. This session allowed students to see firsthand how cutting-edge technologies are integrated into engineering practices.
4.4. Competitions
The event featured several technical and non-technical competitions designed to engage students and enhance their creativity and critical thinking:
- Idea Forge: Students presented innovative solutions in AI-Enabled Home Design, Innovative Waste Management, and Flood-Resilient City Model.
- In-House Competitions: The Sky Spire (Paper Tower Competition) and Canva Clash (Poster Competition) and Bridge-It (Suspension bridge Challenge)
4.5. Valedictory Session
The day ended with a valedictory function at 3:30 PM:
- Prize Distribution for winners of the competitions.
- Feedback Session: Participants shared their experiences and suggestions for improvement.
- Concluding Remarks by Dr. Susan Rose, Head of Civil Engineering.
5. Feedback Analysis
- Almost 64% of the students reported the program activated their engineering interest, 94% agreed/strongly agreed that sessions enhanced knowledge and also rated the campus walk positively (Agree/Strongly Agree). Almost 92% of students rated facilities as Excellent/Very Good. All students expressed interest in future programs. About 95% of students rated overall conduct as Excellent/Very Good.
The feedback analysis clearly demonstrates that DISHA 2025–26 was highly successful in achieving its intended objectives:
- Effectively motivating students toward engineering.
- Enhancing awareness of technical education pathways.
- Showcasing institutional infrastructure and academic environment.
- Delivering a well-organized and engaging event experience.
- Strengthening institutional outreach and brand perception among higher secondary students.
The overwhelmingly positive responses, combined with unanimous interest in future participation, indicate that DISHA serves as a highly impactful pre-admission engagement initiative.
Conclusion
DISHA 2025-26 was a highly successful program that achieved its objectives of informing and engaging school students about engineering and technology. The positive feedback from participants and the high levels of engagement throughout the day demonstrate the effectiveness of the event. By offering interactive sessions, expert talks, hands-on activities, and competitions, DISHA 2025-26 helped students take a step closer to making informed decisions about their academic and career paths in engineering. The program’s success reflects the commitment of the Department of Civil Engineering at Saintgits College of Engineering to providing quality education and guidance to the next generation of engineers.
Bill Settlement
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