The photography workshop, organized by the English and Life Science departments, was an insightful session led by wildlife photographer Kaushik Ghelani. He introduced key photography rules like the golden point, center focus, symmetry, and depth of field, emphasizing patience and storytelling in photography. Participants practiced these concepts by capturing five photos on campus, followed by a discussion and feedback session. The workshop highlighted the importance of creativity, observation, lighting, and composition. Overall, it provided a deeper appreciation for photography as an expressive art form, encouraging participants to experiment and tell compelling visual stories.

The expert lectures on Indian Poetics conducted by Vinod Joshi at MKBU’s Department of English provided students with a profound understanding of classical literary theories and their relevance in contemporary literary studies. Covering fundamental concepts such as Rasa, Dhvani, Vakrokti, and Auchitya, the sessions delved into the rich heritage of Indian literary criticism, emphasizing its intricate analytical frameworks. Through engaging discussions and illustrative examples, students explored the enduring influence of these theories on literary interpretation and creative expression. The workshop not only deepened their appreciation of traditional poetics but also encouraged critical engagement with modern literary discourse. The Department of English expresses its sincere gratitude to Vinod Joshi for his enlightening lectures and to Dilip Barad for his instrumental role in organizing this intellectually stimulating academic event.  

The Department of English organized a week-long drama workshop from July 15 to July 22, 2024, conducted by research scholar Alpa Ponda ma’am, who is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Drama Pedagogy in the Literature Classroom. The workshop centered around Mahesh Dattani’s play Final Solutions (1993), a thought-provoking drama that explores religious tensions and communal conflicts in India.

This workshop was my first experience with theatre in an academic setting, making it a unique and enriching opportunity. While I have always been interested in literature and storytelling, I had never actively engaged in performing arts before. Acting, movement, voice modulation, and stage presence were all new aspects of literary expression that I had the chance to explore. The workshop was designed not only to teach the techniques of drama but also to enhance our understanding of Final Solutions through practical engagement. From voice training and body movement to character interpretation and performance, each session allowed us to delve deeper into the play's emotions, themes, and conflicts. The experience helped me view theatre as more than just a performance—it became a powerful medium for storytelling, critical thinking, and emotional expression.

Kamal Joshi Sir, a renowned drama artist, shared invaluable insights into the nuances of stage performance and the foundational principles of drama and acting. During his session, he emphasized the significance of key theatrical elements such as voice modulation, body language, and character portrayal. He explained how an actor’s voice must adapt to different emotions and situations, ensuring clarity and impact. Similarly, he highlighted the role of body language in conveying unspoken emotions, making performances more authentic and engaging. Additionally, he stressed the importance of timing in delivering dialogues and reacting to co-actors, as it adds depth and realism to a scene. His practical guidance helped participants refine their acting techniques, encouraging them to embody their characters more convincingly. The session not only enhanced our technical skills but also deepened our appreciation for the art of drama, reinforcing the idea that effective storytelling relies on both verbal and non-verbal communication. 

The Digital Skilling Workshop 2024 at the Department of English, Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University, was a significant initiative aimed at equipping students with essential digital tools for academic and professional growth. Held on August 15th and 16th, the workshop was led by Semester 3 students, who introduced various applications that enhance learning, research, and digital proficiency.

On the first day, the focus was on fundamental digital tools. Rahul Desai provided insights into their benefits and applications, while Unnati Baroliya guided students on creating a proper Gmail ID and utilizing Google Drive effectively. Nanda Chavada gave a detailed explanation of YouTube, and Jay Maruniya demonstrated how to upload and manage photos using Google Photos. Darshan Vagh explained the process of embedding PowerPoint presentations in a blog, and Hardii Vhora provided an in-depth overview of these tools. Additionally, Aakash Chavda introduced advanced AI-driven learning platforms such as GPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and Cloud AI, showcasing their potential for vocabulary enhancement and academic growth.

The second day focused on additional digital platforms that support interactive learning and content creation. Asha Rathod introduced Google Forms, while Jatin Varu explained the features of Google Slides, PPT, and Slidego. Google Sites was covered by me, and Bhumiba Gohil demonstrated the TedEd platform for educational content. Yashrajsinh Sodha provided guidance on proper citation methods, and Riya Bhatt engaged students with interactive tools like Kahoot and Mentimeter. Additionally, Pallavi Parmar introduced various online platforms that contribute to digital learning.

Throughout the workshop, Semester 3 students helped juniors navigate new digital concepts, ensuring an engaging and supportive learning environment. The active participation, curiosity, and patience of all attendees contributed to the workshop’s success. We extend our gratitude to the presenters and all members who played a role in making this initiative both informative and impactful.