Young minds drive innovation at Velocity 2025

Imagine a pair of AI-powered spectacles that is designed specifically to guide the visually impaired, or a simple locket with SOS and tracking features empowering personal security in today’s world. These aren’t gadgets from a sci-fi novel; they became a reality at Velocity 2025. Recently, BDM International hosted ‘Velocity’, its annual inter-school business idea presentation. Organised at the Gemstone Auditorium in the school, this year marked the third edition, where students from leading schools participated and presented their business ideas.

The event commenced with a traditional lamp lighting ritual, symbolising the ignition of fresh ideas. 36 students from nine different schools of Kolkata converged with the aim to pitch ideas that are creative, feasible, and sustainable. Sanjay Saraf, Founder and CEO of Sanjay Saraf Educational Institute Pvt. Ltd., graced the event as the Chief Guest. The presence of Pankaj Dubey, Founder of DSPIN Consulting Pvt. Ltd as the Guest of Honour added charm to the event. An esteemed panel of judges, comprising Anirban Banerjee, Co-founder & CMO, Flutrr; Bihan Ratan Sanyal, Manager, Ernst & Young; and Sayanki Chakraborty, Associate Vice President, HSBC Bank, evaluated the presentations.

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In a conversation with The Statesman, Principal Madhumita Sengupta shared the purpose behind arranging such an event. “We require a lot more job providers than job seekers in today’s scenario, and it is always good to catch them young. The young students with their intelligence, capacity to think, and risk-taking ability can learn more. The faster they dream and think, the faster they fail, and then learning happens very quickly. That is the reason we thought of conceptualising this,” Sengupta said, adding, “When they research, build a prototype out of their ideas, calculate, and communicate, the entire life skill training happens through this. They grow out to be more confident at the end of the day.”

She further highlighted how the event evolved over the years. “Post-COVID, I thought of organising an event that is different from traditional school events like music and dance. That’s when I thought of this business idea presentation. At first, we arranged it at an intra-school level. When we saw wonderful ideas coming from our school, we ourselves got motivated and opened the platform for other schools. We have a broader plan to make it to the national level,” Sengupta claimed.

The participants showcased ingenuity, covering subjects from social issues to environmental challenges. Apeejay School, for instance, introduced Wellora, a digital platform promoting mental wellness through AI-powered emotional support. On the other hand, Ruby Park Public School presented Home Fill, a sustainable, subscription-based model for household essentials aimed at reducing single-use packaging. Other compelling ideas included Lakshmipat Singhania Academy’s E-Phenix, which transforms organic food waste into premium home grown organic manure, and DPS Ruby Park’s Matimeter, a pH testing device to help farmers improve soil health. The host school displayed Synapse: The Autonomous AI Revolution, an intelligent digital pen stand with automated features.

Saraf praised the initiative while talking to The Statesman, “India is an aspirational country. Youngsters today believe they can do whatever anybody else can do globally. If students at this stage start thinking about sustainability and feasibility, that’s a huge step forward. Technology has empowered them to research and compete with the best. Normal preparation in school is preparation for the examination. The fire of passion doesn’t come when studying only for exams under the pressure of their parents and the motivation of their teachers. However, when the fire of doing something practical, which is related to their long-term aspirational horizon, fits in, they function on a different level altogether. That needs to be encouraged.”

He further emphasised the importance of financial literacy, “Today, financial literacy and business education are really important. If the students are motivated right from the school level, they will go a long way. Financial literacy is also something that has been prioritised in the New National Education Policy (NEP). It’s a step in the right direction, but implementation is key. Events like Velocity ensure these lessons are not confined to textbooks but lived in practice.”

The day concluded with a prize distribution ceremony. At the end of the event, the Principal clarified why this initiative is a part of their broader goal, “Through such events, students think of solving real problems with innovation, while staying rooted to their traditional values. That’s where true education happens. This approach aligns with our school’s larger vision.” She went on to conclude, “I think it will inspire, motivate, and definitely bring in a change.”