The Department of Microbiology, St. Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim, in collaboration with the Microbiologist Society India (MBSI), RDI, and IQAC, successfully organized the Inauguration of the MBSI Student Unit along with an invited talk on “Pharmaceutical
Microbiology: Bridging Academics and Industry” on 20th August 2025. The Chief Guest and Resource Person for the programme was Mrs. Heena Kausar Zubear Momin, Assistant General Manager – QC, Encube Ethicals Pvt. Ltd., Kundaim-Goa, who delivered a highly insightful session on the “Role of Microbiologist in the Pharma Industry.”

In her address, Mrs. Momin shared valuable insights on career opportunities, industry expectations, and the crucial role microbiologists played in pharmaceutical research, quality control, and innovation. The talk was followed by an interactive Q&A session with students.

The programme was compered by Ms. Anezia Baretto, T.Y. BSc Microbiology student. The Chief Guest was formally introduced by Ms. Arzoo Mulla, Assistant Professor, and felicitated with a potted plant by Dr. Alisha Satwani, Assistant Professor, symbolizing growth
and sustainability. The formal inauguration of the MBSI Student Unit at SJVC was carried out by the Chief Guest, who also announced the office bearers for the academic year 2025–26:President: Ms. Vaishnavi Bale from S.Y. BSc, Secretary: Ms. Nisha Maity from F.Y. BSc & Treasurer: Ms. Komal Ghanchi from T.Y. BSc. The event also featured a Prize Distribution Ceremony, where awards were conferred for competitions and initiatives under the student unit.

The programme concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Aureen Lemos Godinho Gomes, Faculty Coordinator of the MBSI Student Unit & Assistant Professor. The inauguration of the MBSI Student Unit at SJVC marked a memorable milestone, as it provided a vibrant platform for aspiring microbiologists to engage in academic growth, innovation, and collaborative learning.