Don Bosco College, Yelagiri Hills

1. Introduction

The Department of Business Administration at Don Bosco College, Yelagiri Hills, in academic partnership with the MSW Department of Sacred Heart College, Tirupattur, organized a seminar on the theme “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)” on 27th January 2026. The program was conducted with the prior approval of the Principal, Dr. Ravi L., in response to the permission letter submitted by Dr. Murugan G., Head of the BBA Department.

The seminar was designed to sensitize undergraduate BBA students to contemporary social and organizational issues related to inclusivity, fairness, and respect for diversity. By engaging with MSW students and faculty from a partner institution, the event also promoted interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborative learning. This report provides a detailed account of the proceedings, participation, outcomes, and reflections from the seminar.

2. Objectives

The primary objectives of the seminar were:

To enhance students’ understanding of the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
To relate DEI principles to leadership, teamwork, and professional ethics.
To encourage interaction between BBA and MSW students, fostering interdisciplinary perspectives.
To promote activity-based and experiential learning on socially relevant themes.
To strengthen institutional collaboration between Don Bosco College and Sacred Heart College.

3. Participants and Dignitaries

The event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries from Don Bosco College:

Dr. Ravi L. – Principal
Fr. Arokia Berdouil Raj S. – Campus Minister
Dr. Murugan G. – Head, BBA Department
Faculty members of the BBA Department

From Sacred Heart College, Tirupattur:

MSW Department faculty and a delegation of MSW students

A total of 150 students from the BBA program actively participated in the seminar. The involvement of both institutions created an atmosphere of mutual learning and respect.

4. Proceedings of the Seminar

4.1 Inauguration

The seminar began at 11:35 AM with a prayer song, sung collectively to invoke a spirit of unity and reflection. This was followed by a welcome address delivered by an MSW student from Sacred Heart College, who warmly greeted the dignitaries, faculty, and participants, and outlined the purpose and structure of the day’s program.

4.2 Technical Sessions

The core of the seminar was divided into three thematic segments, each focusing on a pillar of DEI:

Diversity
This session explored the dimensions of diversity—cultural, gender, linguistic, cognitive, and more. The MSW student facilitators used case studies, personal narratives, and multimedia to illustrate how diversity enriches communities and organizations.
Equity
The equity segment emphasized the distinction between equality and equity. Through examples from education and workplace scenarios, students were encouraged to think about systemic barriers and the need for fair access to opportunities.
Inclusion
This session focused on creating environments where every individual feels valued, heard, and empowered. Interactive discussions were held on inclusive language, behavior, and policy-making.

Each session lasted approximately 20–25 minutes and was facilitated by small groups of MSW students, ensuring dynamic and relatable delivery.

4.3 Activity-Based Learning

After the presentations, students were divided into mixed groups for activity-based learning. The activities included:

Role-playing exercises simulating inclusive and exclusionary scenarios.
Group discussions on real-world DEI challenges.
Case analysis and solution-building tasks.

These activities allowed BBA students to apply theoretical concepts in practical, collaborative settings, thereby deepening their engagement and understanding.

4.4 Valedictory Session

The formal proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by another MSW student. The speaker expressed gratitude to the management of Don Bosco College, the BBA Department, the MSW Department of Sacred Heart College, and all participants for making the event a success.

4.5 Networking and Refreshments

A group photograph was taken with all dignitaries, faculty, and students, symbolizing the collaborative spirit of the event. Thereafter, snacks were distributed to all participants, providing an informal space for networking and continued conversation.

5. Outcomes and Feedback

The seminar successfully raised awareness among BBA students on DEI issues relevant to both academic and professional contexts.
The interdisciplinary approach was highly appreciated, with students valuing the perspectives brought by MSW peers.
The activity-based methodology was noted as particularly effective in making the sessions interactive and memorable.
Participants expressed interest in more such collaborative events in the future.

Informal feedback indicated that students felt more equipped to recognize and advocate for inclusive practices in their future roles as business professionals.

6. Challenges and Learnings

The time constraint (1 hour 40 minutes) posed a challenge in covering all subtopics in depth. Future events could consider longer durations or follow-up sessions.
Greater involvement of BBA students in the presentation segments could enhance ownership and interaction.
Technical support for digital presentations could be strengthened in future collaborations.

Despite these, the event was executed smoothly, maintaining discipline and academic rigor throughout.

7. Acknowledgements

The Department of Business Administration extends its sincere thanks to:

The Principal, Dr. Ravi L., for granting permission and encouraging such initiatives.
Fr. Arokia Berdouil Raj S., for his spiritual and moral support.
The MSW HR Department, Sacred Heart College, for their enthusiastic collaboration and resourceful contributions.
All BBA faculty members for their coordination and support.
The 150 BBA students whose participation made the seminar meaningful.

8. Conclusion

The seminar on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion was a significant step toward fostering socially conscious education at Don Bosco College. It highlighted the importance of collaborative, interdisciplinary learning and provided students with valuable insights into building inclusive communities and organizations. The event reinforced the college’s commitment to holistic development and ethical leadership. We look forward to organizing more such enriching programs in the future.