Chandigarh, 25 August: The Department of Home Science, Mehr Chand Mahajan DAV College for Women, under the aegis of the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), organised an innovation and entrepreneurship outreach programme- “Stitch to Success” at Ashiana Children’s Home, Sector 16, Panchkula.
The programme aimed to empower young participants by introducing them to the creative and entrepreneurial potential of waste fabric and textile scraps while fostering skill development, innovation, sustainability and self-reliance. The session was conducted by Dr Rati Arora, Assistant Professor, Department of Home Science. The participants learned to transform leftover fabric into useful and aesthetically appealing products, including fabric keychains, hair accessories, scrunchies, bangles and decorative jute flowers. Dr. Arora also demonstrated the making of handmade, eco-friendly Rakhis using simple and easily available materials. Dr. Arora highlighted that entrepreneurship does not necessarily require substantial financial investment, emphasising that a simple skill, creative thinking and the effective utilisation of available resources can serve as the foundation for a small enterprise. The hands-on activities provided the participants with an opportunity to develop creativity, confidence, problem-solving abilities and self-reliance, while demonstrating how practical skills can be transformed into meaningful entrepreneurial opportunities. The workshop concluded on an inspiring note, with the participants enthusiastically reciting together: “छोटी-सी कतरन, बड़ा-सा कमाल, हुनर बने कारोबार!”

Officiating Principal Ms Neena Sharma appreciated the efforts of the Department of Home Science in sensitising and empowering the young participants through creativity, skill development and an entrepreneurial perspective. She emphasised that such initiatives provide valuable opportunities for young learners to discover their potential, build confidence and understand how simple, practical skills can be transformed into sustainable livelihood opportunities.