Objectives: The session held on 6th December, 2022, had several key objectives aimed at enhancing the students’ understanding and appreciation of public speaking and communication skills. Firstly, the session sought to introduce the students to the vital role that public speaking plays in their everyday lives and how it extends beyond formal presentations. The guest speaker for the topic was Ms. Barsha Bhandari, a Partnership and Outreach Specialist at Genese Solution and an experienced public speaker. She emphasized that public speaking is not solely about addressing an audience but is also about cultivating effective communication skills in various real-life situations. Secondly, the objective was to broaden the students’ perspective on the importance of communication in personal and professional growth. By understanding the value of effective communication, the students could better prepare themselves for future challenges and opportunities. Lastly, the session aimed to engage the students in an interactive exercise that showcased different forms of speech delivery, helping them grasp the nuances of effective communication techniques in a practical manner.

Learnings: Throughout the session, the students gained valuable insights and learnings from Ms. Barsha Bhandari’s expertise as the guest speaker. They came to comprehend that public speaking is an integral part of their daily lives, influencing their interactions and relationships in various contexts. The session emphasized the importance of clear and effective communication in expressing ideas, sharing knowledge, and building connections with others. Students learned that communication skills extend beyond formal speeches and encompass a wide range of situations, from interpersonal conversations to professional presentations. The small exercise conducted by Ms. Bhandari, where students participated on stage and delivered lines, allowed them to witness firsthand the different forms of speech delivery and further deepened their understanding of communication techniques.https://www.youtube.com/embed/5hyQDpWd5Lo?si=brawFYaAcdKMTK6q

Outcomes: The session’s outcomes were both immediate and potentially long-lasting for the students. Firstly, the session, led by Ms. Barsha Bhandari, successfully raised awareness among the participants about the significance of public speaking and communication skills in their personal and academic lives. This newfound awareness would empower them to approach communication challenges with more confidence and competence. Secondly, the students developed a broader perspective on the role of communication in their future careers, recognizing that effective communication is a crucial skill sought by employers across various industries. The interactive and engaging nature of the session, facilitated by Ms. Bhandari, contributed to a productive learning experience, with students actively participating and absorbing the knowledge shared by the guest speaker. As a result, participants’ confidence in utilizing communication techniques in diverse situations improved significantly. The positive feedback from the students highlighted the effectiveness of the session in achieving its objectives. Ultimately, the acquired skills and knowledge, presented by Ms. Barsha Bhandari, are expected to have a lasting impact on the students’ personal growth, professional development, and overall success in their future endeavors.