NIFT Mumbai Conducts Three-Day Orientation Programme 2026 for New Students

Orientation programme introduced students to academics, campus life, sustainability, industry insights, and alumni experiences ahead of the new academic session.

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Mumbai successfully conducted its three-day Orientation Programme 2026 from 29 to 31 July 2026, welcoming 328 newly admitted students and their parents. The programme was designed to help students transition into campus life by introducing them to the institute's academic framework, student support services, campus facilities, and opportunities for personal and professional development.

Established in 1986, NIFT has played a significant role in developing professional talent for the textile, apparel, fashion, and allied sectors while serving as a knowledge partner to both Central and State Governments.

Inaugural Session Introduced Students to NIFT Mumbai

The orientation began with student registration followed by the inaugural ceremony attended by Prof. Dr. Ajit Kumar Khare, Director, NIFT Mumbai, senior officials, faculty members, and staff.

Addressing the new batch, Prof. Khare welcomed students to the institute and highlighted NIFT Mumbai's academic vision, innovation-driven approach, and institutional culture. Parent interaction sessions and departmental meetings enabled students and families to understand academic programmes, campus facilities, and future career opportunities.

Sessions Focused on Inclusion and Student Well-being

The second day featured two interactive sessions conducted by Ms. Sashi Rekha Tallapragada, Life Skills Consultant.

The session titled "Let's Talk Gender" focused on gender sensitivity, equality, consent, responsible behaviour, and creating an inclusive campus environment. Another session, "Unmasking Ragging," familiarised students with anti-ragging regulations, institutional policies, and measures aimed at maintaining a safe and respectful campus. Interactive discussions and role-play activities encouraged student participation.

Alumni Shared Industry Experiences

One of the key highlights of the programme was an Alumni Interaction and Panel Discussion, featuring successful graduates from different disciplines:

• Poorva Soman – Founder, Gazillion Fashion & Lifestyle Pvt. Ltd.
• Aishita Johri – Founder, Aishita Johri (Sustainable Handloom Brand)
• Parth Chauhan – Technical Business Analyst, Ten Group, London
• Dhirendra Kumar – Senior Product Designer, Walmart
• Rohit Singh – Head, Exclusive Brand Outlet Business, Jack & Jones (Bestseller)
• Surmai Jain – Founder, Polite Society

The alumni discussed their professional journeys, entrepreneurship, sustainability, Artificial Intelligence, innovation, and evolving opportunities within the global fashion industry. They also reflected on how NIFT Mumbai contributed to their careers. The session concluded with student interaction and a musical performance by alumnus Parth Chauhan.

Gen-Z Day Focused on Sustainability and Innovation

The final day, celebrated as "Gen-Z Day at Campus," featured activities centred on innovation, sustainability, technology, and responsible leadership.

Students participated in:

• Guided campus tours
• "Art Swap" creative wellness workshop conducted by NIFT alumni and Studio Analog co-founders Arohi Devasthale and Vaishnavi R. Bhatt
• NEXT GEN Challenges, covering topics such as:
• • Indian handlooms
  • Sustainability
  • Consumer-centric innovation
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Digital well-being
  • Environmental responsibility
  • Strengthening the NIFT Mumbai brand through a Gen-Z perspective

Students also explored themes including the Swachhata Campaign, Triple E Symbiosis (Environment, Ethics and Economics), and "Back to Basics – A Day without Tech."

Building a Strong Academic Foundation

Through academic orientation, awareness sessions, alumni engagement, experiential learning activities, and sustainability-focused discussions, NIFT Mumbai provided incoming students with a comprehensive introduction to campus life and the institute's academic ecosystem as they begin their journey in fashion education.