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MIT Manipal proudly hosted FINENT-2024, a conclave that brought together thought leaders from the fintech and entrepreneurship sectors on April 18, 2024. This event highlighted the transformative impact of financial technologies and fostered discussions on the future of innovative business practices.

The event opened with a rousing message from Dr. Milind Agarwal, CEO & Founder of Quickwork, who set an empowering tone for the conclave. "Fintech is more than technology; it’s a visionary approach to democratizing financial services and empowering a new generation to tackle global challenges innovatively," he stated, emphasizing the critical role of financial technologies in shaping future societal contributions.

Dr. Yogesh Pai, Head of the Department of Humanities and Management extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests and highlighted MIT Manipal’s dedication to nurturing a bridge between academic insight and industry innovation. The inauguration saw notable contributions from MIT alumnus Dr. Milind Agrawal, along with insightful addresses by Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana, Director of MIT Manipal, and Dr. Giridhar Kini, Registrar of MAHE. Their discussions revolved around the pivotal role of academia-industry collaborations in spurring technological and entrepreneurial innovation.

Speakers such as Mr. Venu Madhav, Senior Vice President of Fidelity Information Services, and Ms. Sabrina Khatri of MSCI, Mumbai, shared their perspectives on the dynamic fintech environment and the essential competencies required to thrive within it. Mr. Madhav spoke on the necessity of adaptability in the rapidly evolving fintech sector, while Ms. Khatri focused on the importance of interdisciplinary skills and a customer-centric approach.

The event’s morning sessions concluded with a compelling keynote from Mr. Prakash Ganeshan, Co-founder of LCode Technologies, who discussed the catalytic role of fintech entrepreneurship in driving social change.

The afternoon featured Mr. Nithin Seth, CEO and Co-founder of Incedo Inc., USA, who presented on ’Mastering the Data Paradox,’ underscoring the strategic importance of data, digital transformation, and AI. This was followed by a vibrant panel discussion about Manipal’s evolution as an entrepreneurial hub, led by Dr. M H Bala Subrahmanya and featuring industry stalwarts.

The conclave wrapped up with a valedictory session where Lt. Gen. (Dr) M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of MAHE, and Mr. Nithin Seth delivered stirring addresses. Lt. Gen. Venkatesh emphasized the importance of the conclave, stating, "This gathering is a testament to our dedication to cultivating an environment where innovative ideas are not only conceived but effectively implemented. Our goal is to prepare our students not just to participate in the future but to actively shape it." Mr. Seth, focusing on the broader implications for India, encouraged the participants with these words: "India’s current entrepreneurial landscape is burgeoning with possibilities that beckon to be seized. It is essential that we harness these opportunities, not only to drive individual success but also to significantly advance our nation’s economic and technological frontiers."

The event was expertly organized by Dr. Raveendra Rao and Dr. Sumukh S Hungund, with valuable support from co-convenors Dr. Rajesh R Pai and Prof. Lidwin Kenneth Micheal.