Jamia Millia Islamia and Enactus Celebrate Innovation, Sustainability, and Social Change at its Annual Social Entrepreneurship Fest ‘Raf’at 25’
Nai Dilli : Office of the Dean Students’ Welfare, Cultural Committee, Jamia Millia Islamia hosted Raf’at 25, the annual social entrepreneurship fest organized by Enactus-JMI at the university’s Ansari Auditorium on April 17, 2025. The 25th edition of the event brought together Deans, Heads, Directors, faculty members, staff, change makers, and student leaders to celebrate innovation and community service.
The event was inaugurated by Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar, Jamia Millia Islamia, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his presidential address, Prof. Rizvi lauded the efforts of Enactus-JMI and felicitated the women workers from the NGO Each One Feed One, who were honored for their dedication under Project Shrimati. He praised their resilience and contributions to grassroots entrepreneurship, highlighting them as “role models of community leadership.”
Prof. Ghulam Yazdani, Officiating Dean, Students’ Welfare, extended a warm welcome to all dignitaries and participants. He described Raf’at as more than just an annual event, stating, “it is a vibrant reflection of our students’ voices and visions,” reinforcing the fest’s role as a platform where academic excellence meets cultural vibrance and social responsibility.
Prof. Rihan Khan Suri, Director, Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE), spoke about the vital role of innovation and entrepreneurship in shaping the future. Special Guest Mr. Ahsan Sagheer, Co-Founder of Dott Clinic, highlighted the value of purpose-driven startups, while Mr. Arif Ghauri, former IRS officer and Governance Advisor to the UK Government, delivered a compelling keynote address, urging students to align their ambition with empathy. Other notable guests included Mr. Setu Ahuja, Deputy Vice President of AU Small Finance Bank and Founder of Enactus JMI, Ms. Jaswant Kaur, Board Member and Treasurer of the Voluntary Action Network of India and Ms. Sonal Shukla, Co-Founder of Econscious.
A special segment was dedicated to showcasing impactful student-led initiatives like Project Paivand, alongside cultural performances and competitions such as business plan pitches, case competitions, a photowalk, and music and dance showcases at the amphitheater.
The event echoed the spirit of innovation, inclusivity, and impact, culminating in a moment of reflection and resolve, as students, faculty, and guests reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the mission of social entrepreneurship and sustainability.
The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Umaima, Assistant Dean, Students’ Welfare, who expressed deep gratitude to the Chief Guest, esteemed dignitaries, faculty members, and dedicated staff for their invaluable presence and support. The event drew to a close with the rendition of the National Anthem, leaving the audience with a sense of unity, pride, and shared purpose.
Prof. Saima Saeed
Chief Public Relations Officer
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