09/05/2026
🚀 An Inspiring Interaction at Vidyarthi Sahayyak Samiti, Pune
Vidyarthi Sahayyak Samiti, Pune was privileged to welcome Dr. Prasad Pradhaan , Senior Partner at PwC (Big 4) and Former Hon. Advisory Director, Prime Minister’s Office, during his visit to the Dr. Apte Hostel campus.
During the visit, Dr. Pradhaan closely understood VSS’s work, hostel ecosystem, and its continued focus on education, discipline, skill development, leadership, and holistic student growth.
He interacted with the VSS Student Digital Team, which is currently contributing to the BMM Seattle Convention and other digital initiatives. Students presented their ongoing work and shared how real-time projects are helping them build practical exposure, confidence, teamwork, and professional capabilities.
Dr. Pradhaan appreciated the quality of work, reviewed the students’ skills, and encouraged them to think beyond conventional boundaries, build globally relevant capabilities, and work with clarity, consistency, and purpose. He also assured continued guidance and mentorship for student-led initiatives at VSS.
A key highlight was his vision of creating a “Mini GCC” ecosystem at VSS, where students can develop Global Capability Centre competencies and contribute to worldwide support services across digital operations, technology, communication, media, design, management support, and even traditional arts and cultural activities.
He also emphasized the potential of creating solutions, services, and products from VSS that can meaningfully support the global Maharashtrian diaspora, enabling students to contribute to international ecosystems through innovation, creativity, and professional excellence.
Prasad Panwalkar, President, BMM, joined virtually from Austin and appreciated the initiative, highlighting the role of practical exposure, accountability, and collaborative learning in preparing students for future global opportunities.
Dr. Makarand Phadke, Trustee, VSS, joined virtually from Boston and emphasized the importance of combining values with modern skills, ensuring students grow as successful professionals and grounded, responsible individuals.
VSS extends heartfelt thanks to Omkar Waghmare, Senior Software Consultant at LTIMindtree and Samiti Alumni, for coordinating this meaningful interaction and connecting students with industry leaders, global professionals, and emerging opportunities.
At VSS, we believe that the right opportunities, mentorship, and environment can empower students to grow beyond academics and become capable, responsible, and confident individuals prepared for a global future.