Alliance University hosted the Ph.D. Orientation Programme for the August 2025 batch,the event brought together eminent dignitaries, faculty members, and newly admitted research scholars. The programme opened with an invocation and words of welcome, setting a scholarly and reflective tone for the sessions that followed. To help scholars adapt to the academic environment, the orientation was followed by a two-day Immersion Programme held from 29 to 31 August 2025, featuring distinguished speakers from reputed institutions in India and abroad.

Setting the Vision for Research

Dr. Sheila Mahapatra, Associate Director – Research (Academics), welcomed the gathering and introduced the research vision of the University. She outlined the milestone goal of enrolling more than 500 scholars and announced the launch of three new doctoral programmes: Ph.D. in Performing Arts, Ph.D. in Indic Studies, and Ph.D. in VISTA (Venture Innovation for Social Transformation & Advancement). Dr. Mahapatra emphasised that every research problem should be aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals or designed to create positive societal impact, thereby ensuring that research remains globally relevant and socially responsible.

Inaugural Perspectives

Delivering the inaugural address, Mr. Abhay G. Chebbi, Pro-Chancellor, described the Ph.D. as a journey of perseverance and resilience rather than a course of study. He highlighted the importance of ethics in research and reminded scholars of their duty to maintain integrity throughout their academic pursuits.

In his remarks, Dr. B. Priestly Shan, Vice-Chancellor, encouraged scholars to pursue problem statements that contribute to social transformation. He stressed that research must lead to meaningful outcomes that benefit society and inspire change.

Insights on Research Ethics and Innovation

Prof. (Dr.) Sandeep Sancheti, Vice President – Academic Relations, Global Strategic Networks, Elsevier (India), delivered a thought-provoking address on ethics in research. He introduced the five pillars of research—Integrity, Intelligence, Intensity, Impact, and Innovation—and urged scholars to embrace these values to ensure credibility and relevance in their doctoral work.

Highlighting the role of innovation, Mr. Nagaraja (Naga) Prakasam, Author, Angel Investor, Mentor, and Fund Advisor, encouraged scholars to think beyond traditional academic boundaries. He spoke about the potential for doctoral research to evolve into ventures that create both societal and entrepreneurial impact. As the lead of the newly launched Ph.D. VISTA programme, he underscored the importance of translating research outcomes into tangible ventures that drive transformation.

Closing the Programme

The session concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Surekha Shetty, Registrar General, Alliance University. She extended a warm welcome to the scholars and encouraged them to make the best use of the University’s resources, facilities, and mentorship opportunities.

A Foundation for the Doctoral Journey

The orientation and immersion programme laid a strong foundation for the new scholars. It offered them guidance on academic rigour, ethical research practices, and opportunities for innovation, preparing them to pursue their doctoral studies with clarity of purpose and a sense of responsibility towards society.