UDAAN 2026 Takes Flight at SIES Nerul, 23 Colleges Participate in Zonal Round

SIES College of Arts, Science and Commerce (Autonomous), Nerul, in collaboration with the Department of Lifelong Learning and Extension (DLLE), University of Mumbai, successfully hosted the Zonal Round of UDAAN – Flight of Extension 2026 on Friday. The event witnessed participation from 23 colleges, bringing together nearly 30 teachers and 329 students in a celebration of creativity, awareness, and community engagement.

Organised under the guidance of DLLE, University of Mumbai, UDAAN aims to extend education beyond classrooms and encourage students to actively engage with social issues. The festival reflected this vision by providing platforms for expression, dialogue, and responsible citizenship.

The inaugural ceremony was held in the presence of Dr. Baliram N. Gaikwad, Professor and Director, DLLE, University of Mumbai; Dr. Kunal D. Jadhav, Professor, DLLE; Dr. S. V. Viswanathan, Honourable Treasurer of South Indian Education Society (SIES); and Dr. Koel Roychoudhury, Principal of SIES College, Nerul.The programme commenced with the traditional Lighting of the Lamp, followed by the Maharashtra Rajya Geet and the University Song. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Gaikwad highlighted the transformative role of extension education in shaping socially responsible youth. Principal Dr. Roychoudhury encouraged students to continue participating in initiatives that combine academic learning with social commitment.

The zonal competitions included Street Play, Poster Making, Elocution, and Creative Writing. The street plays drew strong responses from the audience, presenting pressing social themes with conviction and impact. The poster-making competition showcased powerful visual interpretations of contemporary issues. Elocution participants demonstrated confidence and clarity in public speaking, while the creative writing entries reflected thoughtful engagement with social realities.The valedictory ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Dr. D. V. Pawar, Former Principal of Kirti College, Chairman of the Board of Studies in Rural Development, and NAAC Peer Team Member, along with Guest of Honour Mr.

Dhirendra Thakur and DLLE Field Coordinator Dr. Sheetal Sawant. The dignitaries were felicitated by Principal Dr. Koel Roychoudhury.

In his address, Dr. Pawar emphasised the importance of value-based education and extension initiatives in strengthening rural and community development. Mr. Thakur motivated students to remain socially conscious and proactive in community service.The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Jinal Khetia, Extension Teacher, expressing gratitude to DLLE, University of Mumbai, the college management, faculty coordinators, volunteers, and participating institutions for their collective efforts.With strong participation and enthusiastic engagement, UDAAN 2026 reaffirmed its role as a significant platform for student expression and social responsibility within the University of Mumbai network.