The Principal’s Conclave 2026 at Sri Manakula Vinayagar Engineering College (SMVEC) was a prestigious gathering that brought together eminent dignitaries, academic leaders, and experts to discuss innovation and the transformative role of education. The event was thoughtfully structured, blending tradition, knowledge-sharing, and inspiration.
Inaugural Session
The programme commenced with Thamizhthai Vazhthu, invoking the spirit of Tamil culture and setting a respectful and auspicious tone for the event. This was followed by the SMVEC Anthem, instilling pride and unity among the attendees while reflecting the institution’s values and vision. An engaging AV Treat showcased the achievements, milestones, and growth journey of SMVEC, highlighting its commitment to excellence in education and innovation.
Lighting of Kuthuvilakku
The ceremonial Lighting of the Kuthuvilakku marked the auspicious inauguration of the Principal’s Conclave 2026. The lamp was lit by the dignitaries symbolizing the removal of darkness and the spread of knowledge, wisdom, and prosperity. The ritual reflected tradition, culture, and the institution’s commitment to enlightenment through education. The moment created a serene and positive atmosphere, setting the right tone for the entire event.
Welcome Address
The Welcome Address was delivered by Dr. V.S.K. Venkatachalapathy, Director cum Principal, SMVEC, who warmly welcomed all the dignitaries, principals, faculty members, and participants of the Principal’s Conclave 2026. He highlighted the purpose of the conclave in transforming student mind-set and preparing more than 1,000 faculty members for effective integration of AI in education. He mentioned that the session had been thoughtfully organized, though slightly delayed, and expressed his sincere apology for the inconvenience while appreciating everyone’s patience and presence. He emphasized the importance of the discussions held over the past few days in reshaping academic practices. He also extended a heartfelt welcome to the management member’s, distinguished speakers, and academic leaders, acknowledging their valuable contributions. The Director concluded by wishing all participants a fruitful and enriching session.
Honouring of Guests
Following the welcome address, the dignitaries were respectfully honoured as a token of appreciation and regard. This gesture recognized their esteemed presence and valuable contributions to the success and significance of the event.
Felicitation Address
The Felicitation Address was delivered by Selvarani Selvakumar, Innovation Officer, Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell (MIC), AICTE), who highlighted various innovation initiatives, training programs, and schemes available for schools under the Ministry of Education. She emphasized fostering an innovation-driven mind-set through programs like the School Innovation Council, Design Thinking courses, and School Innovation Marathon. She also stressed the importance of encouraging students to solve real-world problems and take advantage of funding and IP support provided by the ministry.
Presidential Address
The Presidential Address was delivered by Shri D. Rajarajan, Treasurer, SMVE Trust, who highlighted the transformative role of AI in education through personalized learning and skill-based assessment. He emphasized the evolving role of teachers as mentors and urged institutions to adopt technology proactively for a future-ready education system. He further stressed the importance of continuous learning and innovation in academic practices. He concluded by encouraging all institutions to embrace change and align with emerging technological trends in education.
Expert Talk on Role of AI in Transforming Quality Education
- Session – 1
The first session of the Expert Talk on the Role of AI in Transforming Quality Education was delivered by Dr. J. Madhusudhanan, HoD, AI & DSandDr. M. Auxilia, HoD, CSEBS, who highlighted how AI is transforming teaching and learning through personalized education, smart tools, and automated evaluation systems. They emphasized the role of AI in inclusive education, improving accessibility, and supporting both students and teachers. The session also addressed challenges such as data privacy and digital readiness, concluding that AI enhances rather than replaces the role of educators.
- Session – 2
The second session of the Expert Talk on the Role of AI in Transforming Quality Education was delivered by Dr. N. Danapaquaime, HoD, CSEandDr. R. Saravanan, HoD, CCE, who showcased an AI-powered IELTS preparation platform designed to enhance students’ communication skills. They explained its features across reading, writing, listening, and speaking modules with automated evaluation and personalized feedback. The session highlighted how AI tools can improve language proficiency and support students in achieving academic and career goals.
Life Skill Talk
The Life Skill Talk was delivered by Shri Musee Pugazhendhi, Life Skill Coach and Founder Chairman of Bodhi Garden School, who addressed the evolving mind-set of the current generation in the context of education, AI, and societal change. He emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence, communication, and adaptability in shaping students beyond academic performance. He highlighted how modern learners differ from previous generations in their thinking patterns, learning behaviour, and social interactions, stressing the need for educators to guide them with understanding and responsibility. He also spoke about the influence of technology and AI on learning ecosystems, while reminding that discipline, values, and human connection remain essential. The session concluded with a strong message on nurturing socio-emotional awareness and preparing students to become future-ready individuals with creativity, confidence, and social responsibility.
Vote of Thanks
The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Dr. N.S.N. Cailassame, Dean – Placement, who expressed sincere gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, principals, faculty members, organizing team, technical and support staff for their valuable contribution to the success of the Principal’s Conclave. He also thanked all participants for their active presence, which made the event meaningful and successful.
National Anthem
The event concluded with the National Anthem, bringing the Principal’s Conclave to a respectful and patriotic close. It fostered a sense of unity, discipline, and national pride among all attendees.
