International Staff Week 2025

International Staff Week 2025 was organised over five days with the objective of fostering international academic collaboration, cultural exchange, and institutional networking. The programme brought together international delegates, faculty members, and students, providing a platform for meaningful academic and cultural engagement.

Day 1

The programme commenced with a welcome breakfast, followed by an introductory interaction between the international delegates and their assigned faculty buddies. This session facilitated initial engagement and integration of the guests into the university community. A guided campus tour was organised to familiarise the delegates with the institutional infrastructure and facilities.

The Inaugural Ceremony of International Staff Week 2025 was held in the auditorium, where international guests from nine countries—Chile, Germany, Malaysia, Poland, Romania, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Nepal—were formally welcomed. Professor Nikita Nimbalkar extended the welcome to the delegates. Father Lijo delivered the inaugural address, describing the week as “a celebration of learning, research, and teaching.” International representatives shared messages highlighting cross-cultural collaboration, gender equality, and academic exchange. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks followed by the National Anthem. The day concluded with high tea and a banquet dinner.

Day 2

The second day began with breakfast, followed by interactive classroom sessions and discussions involving students and faculty members. These sessions enabled academic exchange and collaborative dialogue. A testimonial session was conducted where international delegates shared their initial reflections on the programme.

In the afternoon, the Legal Research Colloquium, organised by the Conference Committee, was inaugurated in the auditorium. The colloquium facilitated scholarly discussions on global legal research and interdisciplinary perspectives, with participation from international guests and academicians. In the evening, a Cultural Programme organised by the Student Welfare Office showcased student performances. An open dance session encouraged participation from guests, faculty, and organisers, fostering cultural bonding and inclusivity. The day concluded with a banquet dinner at the Central Block.

Day 3

The third day began with a breakfast and testimonial session at the Banquet Hall, providing an informal setting for interaction between guests and faculty members. This was followed by class visits and faculty interactions, allowing international delegates to observe pedagogical practices and share academic insights.

After lunch, panel discussions under the Legal Research Colloquium were conducted, focusing on contemporary legal issues and interdisciplinary research.

The day also included a session by CAPS conducted by Professor Sulochini Pather titled “Embracing Inclusive Education: Highlights from Prof. Sulochini Pather’s Inspiring Session.”

 Professor Sulochini Pather delivered a powerful session that reframed inclusive education as a non-negotiable commitment to every learner, irrespective of race, gender, socio-economic background, or disability. “Inclusion is not about fitting people into broken systems,” she said. “It is about rebuilding systems so no one is ever left out.”

She urged universities to move from statements to action through Universal Design for Learning, accessible campuses, digital accessibility, and well-resourced support centres offering assistive technologies, mental-health services, and academic accommodations. She emphasised mandatory disability-confidence training and flexible assessments that measure knowledge rather than physical or sensory ability.

To demonstrate the power of accessibility, she shared the story of a young woman with cerebral palsy who, with the right support, earned two Master’s degrees from Oxford with distinction. “She didn’t succeed despite her disability,” Prof. Pather noted. “She soared because the barriers were removed.”

Her closing message was clear: real change begins when we start dismantling barriers, not people.

In the evening, the International Fair organised by first-year law students was held. The fair showcased cultural performances, cuisine, and exhibits from various countries, celebrating global diversity. The day concluded with dinner at the Banquet Hall.

Day 4

The fourth day commenced with an early morning trekking and nature trail, offering participants an opportunity to connect with nature. This was followed by breakfast at the Banquet Hall. The Valedictory Session of the Legal Research Colloquium was conducted in the auditorium, marking the conclusion of the academic segment of the programme. Delegates then participated in faculty interactions and testimonial sharing sessions.

In the afternoon, the international guests proceeded on a sightseeing visit to Pune, exploring the city’s cultural and historical landmarks.

Day 5

The final day of International Staff Week 2025 began with a yoga session promoting wellness and mindfulness. Following breakfast, the delegates participated in class sessions and continued academic interactions with faculty buddies. A testimonial session was held where international guests reflected on their experiences and expressed appreciation for the academic and cultural engagements during the week.

The programme concluded with the Valedictory Ceremony, marking the successful completion of International Staff Week 2025. A Send-Off Dinner was organised in the evening, providing an opportunity for final interactions and strengthening professional and personal connections.

International Staff Week 2025 served as an important platform for strengthening international academic partnerships, promoting inclusive education, and enhancing cross-cultural understanding. The programme reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to internationalisation, collaborative learning, and diversity in higher education. The successful execution of the programme was made possible through the collective efforts of the organising committee, faculty members, students, and supporting offices.