Odisha students top global fintech programme

A team of students from the state secured first place among the top 10 capstone projects in the certificate in fintech & insurtech (CFI) programme conducted by the National University of Singapore, Asian Institute of Digital Finance, in partnership with the Global Finance and Technology Network.In recognition of their project, the team was invited to present their idea at the GFTN Japan Forum 2026, which was held in Tokyo last week. The team comprises B Simran, Puspajanli Behera, Manisha Lenka, Rajeshwari Behera and Soumya Ranjan Baithalu from Ravenshaw University, along with Sibansee Nayak from Utkal University and Anirban Kar from Salipur Autonomous College.Ravenshaw University officials said the forum brought together global leaders and innovators from the fintech and insurtech sectors, offering the students an opportunity to present their work before an international audience and engage with industry stakeholders.

‘Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament’The district-level Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026, an initiative of the ministry of youth affairs and Sports, was organised at Fakir Mohan University recently to promote democratic values and leadership among youth.Vice-chancellor Santosh Kumar Tripathy chaired the programme. An elocution competition on the theme ‘50 Years of the Emergency: Lessons for Indian Democracy’ was held as part of the event.

Around 38 students from colleges across Balasore district and the university participated, delivering speeches in Odia, English and Hindi. Youth aged 18-25 registered through the MY Bharat Portal, with over 200 registrations received.Students Kasish Dash, Biswaranjan Nayak, Madhusmita Bal, Bhabashree Jena and Sushma Dash emerged as top performers and will represent Balasore district at the state-level competition.

Three participants from there will advance to the national round, said sources in the university.DAV biz school celebrates ‘Bhavyataa’The annual function of DAV School of Business Management, BHAVYATAA 2026, was celebrated in Bhubaneswar on Saturday with cultural performances and recognition of student achievements.Rajib Sekhar Sahoo, chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (Odisha State Council), attended as the chief guest and stressed the importance of industry-oriented skills, innovation and entrepreneurial adaptability among graduates.DSBM chairman Arun Kumar Rath highlighted the institution’s progress in strengthening professional education through practical exposure. K C Satapathy, regional director of DAV Institutions (Odisha), underscored the role of value-based education in shaping responsible citizens.Principal D N Mishra said the event recognises student talent and encourages them to pursue excellence with integrity and social responsibility.