Assam down town University successfully conducted the thingQbator Cohort 9 Orientation, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for student innovators eager to turn ideas into impactful solutions.

The program began with the inaugural address by Ms. Pubali Saikia, an intern of down town Venture Labs, who warmly welcomed the participants and highlighted the vision of Cohort 9 as a platform for nurturing innovation, building scalable solutions, and empowering young minds to shape the future.

During the ceremony, the distinguished speaker Ms. Mansi Pattanaik, Program Executive – Social Innovation for Youth, was felicitated by Prof. (Dr.) Sunandan Baruah, Director, DISA, before delivering her session. In her inspiring address, Ms. Pattanaik encouraged students to embrace collaboration, creativity, and courage, emphasizing the vital role of social innovation in addressing real-world challenges and creating meaningful impact.

The orientation also introduced participants to the structured support system available through the program, including mentorship, product development guidance, a startup launchpad, and opportunities for early-stage funding. Adding an engaging element to the event, an interactive quiz session was organized where the top five participants were recognized and awarded Amazon vouchers for their outstanding performance.

The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to NASSCOM Foundation, CISCO, Ms. Mansi Pattanaik, and down town Venture Labs for their valuable support in organizing the orientation. The closing remarks encouraged students to move forward with confidence, passion, and innovative spirit, carrying the vision of collaboration and entrepreneurship that defines thingQbator Cohort 9.