AKI Poona Institute of Management Sciences and Entrepreneurship (PIMSE), Pune, proudly participated in the AVISHKAR 2026 Research Competition on 9th October, 2026, providing a platform for students to showcase their research aptitude, innovative thinking, and ability to develop practical solutions to contemporary challenges. Two innovative projects were presented by PIMSE students: SkillSync, by Mr. Mark Britto, and Knot-To-Waste, by Ms. Kashaf Shiledar.
AVISHKAR, *an inter-university research convention initiated by Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU)*, aims to nurture a strong research culture among students by encouraging creativity, scientific inquiry, innovation, and the application of knowledge to real-world problems. The initiative provides students with an opportunity to present original ideas, innovative projects, and potential solutions that address emerging organizational and societal needs.
Mr. Mark Britto presented SkillSync, an AI-powered competency management and shift optimization system designed to address workforce management challenges arising from unexpected employee absenteeism and outdated skill-tracking practices. By integrating intelligent workforce planning with Training Needs Identification and compliance monitoring, SkillSync aims to enhance operational continuity, optimize employee utilization, strengthen workplace safety, and improve organizational productivity.
Ms. Kashaf Shiledar presented Knot-To-Waste, an innovative food rescue and logistics platform that seeks to minimize surplus food wastage at weddings, hotels, catering establishments, and other events while supporting food-insecure communities. The proposed platform connects food donors with verified NGOs, shelters, and food banks through location-based matching. The project highlights the potential of technology-driven social entrepreneurship to promote food security, responsible resource utilization, environmental sustainability, and community welfare.
Both projects exemplify the application of innovative thinking and emerging technologies to address significant real-world challenges. Together, they demonstrate the students’ ability to connect management concepts with practical problem-solving and develop ideas with the potential to create meaningful organizational and societal value.
PIMSE takes immense pride in the participation of Mr. Mark Britto and Ms. Kashaf Shiledar in AVISHKAR 2026. Their innovative contributions reflect the institute’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant research culture, encouraging student-led innovation, and promoting experiential learning beyond the classroom. The institute appreciates their initiative, creativity, and dedication in translating ideas into potential solutions for contemporary challenges. PIMSE remains committed to providing students with opportunities to explore, innovate, and contribute to sustainable development and societal progress through research and knowledge creation.
