Kolkata : Heritage Institute of Technology (HITK), Kolkata, is conducting COMPASS 2026, its four-day Student Induction Programme for the newly admitted B.Tech and MBA students, from August 5 to August 8, 2026, at The Heritage Campus. The programme has been thoughtfully designed to provide students with a holistic introduction to academic life, institutional values, industry expectations, personal well-being and career opportunities, thereby laying a strong foundation for their professional journey.
The programme was inaugurated on August 5 with a Vedic Invocation and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp in the presence of eminent dignitaries. The inaugural session featured inspiring addresses by Padma Shri Mr. Prahlad Rai Agarwala, Chairman, Heritage Institute of Technology and Chairman, Rupa & Co. Ltd.; Padma Shri Mr. Sajjan Bhajanka, Secretary, Kalyan Bharti Trust and Chairman, Century Plyboards (I) Ltd.; Ms. Vineeta Bajoria, Chairperson, Nicco Cables Pvt. Ltd.; Mr. Debraj Kundu, Retail Delivery & Sales Head, Tata Consultancy Services; and Prof. Nirmalya Narayan Chakraborty, Vice Chancellor, Presidency University, Kolkata. The gathering was welcomed by Prof. (Dr.) Basab Chaudhuri, Principal, Heritage Institute of Technology, while Prof. (Dr.) Pradipta Banerji, Director – Research & Innovation, addressed the students on embracing innovation and research as integral components of their academic journey.
The distinguished speakers encouraged the freshers to cultivate curiosity, integrity, resilience and a spirit of continuous learning while making the most of the opportunities available at Heritage Institute of Technology. They highlighted the importance of innovation, ethical leadership and industry readiness in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.
A major highlight of the induction programme was the enlightening session by Swami Vedatitanandaji Maharaj, Correspondent, Ramakrishna Mission Shilpamandira, Belur Math, on “Indian Heritage, Culture & Values.” His inspiring discourse underscored the significance of values, discipline and character in shaping responsible professionals and compassionate human beings.
The students also benefitted from an engaging session on “Cyber Security – Threats & Mitigation Strategies” delivered by Mr. Sourav Chakraborty, Technology Head, TCS Cyber Security. Through practical examples and industry insights, he sensitised students to the growing importance of cybersecurity, digital responsibility and the exciting opportunities emerging in this critical domain.
The second day of COMPASS 2026 featured sessions on the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, physical fitness, nutrition and wellness, adapting to a rapidly changing world, and entrepreneurship through student and alumni startups. Students interacted with experts from healthcare, wellness and academia, gaining valuable insights into maintaining a balanced lifestyle while pursuing academic excellence.
The programme continues with departmental orientation, academic processes, healthcare awareness, student clubs and cultural activities, enabling the incoming students to familiarise themselves with the academic ecosystem and vibrant campus life at Heritage Institute of Technology. The concluding day will feature sessions on student engagement initiatives, club activities and cultural performances by the new batch, marking the beginning of their exciting journey at the institution.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pradip Agarwal, Chief Executive Officer, Heritage Institute of Technology, said, “COMPASS 2026 has been envisioned as more than an orientation programme. It is an opportunity to introduce our students to the values, culture and academic ethos of Heritage while equipping them with the confidence and perspective to excel in a dynamic global environment. Through interactions with distinguished academicians, industry leaders and thought leaders, we aim to inspire every student to pursue excellence with integrity and purpose.”
The final day of COMPASS 2026 on August 8 will feature sessions on student clubs and campus engagement, followed by cultural performances by the newly admitted students, bringing the four-day induction programme to a vibrant and memorable conclusion.