OKNO 2026: Women in Research & Socio-Economic Empowerment.
ABTEC Ltd, successfully hosted OKNO 2026, a National Seminar focused on “Women in Research and Socio-Economic Empowerment” on 10th March 2026 at our Innovation Centre at Kottayam, Kerala.
The event brought together 50 research students along with faculty members from various colleges, creating a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, inspiration and scientific dialogue. The initiative aimed to encourage women researchers to translate their ideas and scientific knowledge into impactful innovations that contribute to sustainable development.
The program began with a prayer followed by a welcome address by Dr. Hemand Aravind, Research Head of IBCL, ABTEC Ltd. The seminar was presided over by Mr. Bibin Jacob, Managing Director of ABTEC Ltd, who delivered the Presidential Address, highlighting the growing role of women in research and entrepreneurship. He emphasized the importance of creating ecosystems that support women innovators to convert research into solutions.
The event was inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) Smitha V. B, School of Biosciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, who also delivered an insightful expert talk. She shared valuable perspectives on the opportunities and challenges for women in scientific research and encouraged young researchers to pursue impactful and sustainable scientific careers.
A key highlight of the seminar was the panel discussion with women entrepreneur Ms. Nikitha Achu Thomas, Managing Partner of Kelachandra Group of Industries. She shared her entrepreneurial journey and practical insights on transforming ideas into successful ventures, inspiring students to explore entrepreneurship alongside research.
The seminar also featured a Digital Poster Presentation Competition, where students presented innovative ideas and research concepts aligned with the theme of sustainable research and socio-economic empowerment. Ms. Siddi Santhosh, a Chemical Engineering student of St Gits College of Engineering received the first price, followed by Ms. Soya Parveen KS, a Research Scholar at School of Bioscience, MG University who secured the second price.
The event concluded with a valedictory session and vote of thanks by Ms. Sunimol Sebastian, Research Assistant at ABTEC Ltd, expressing gratitude to the speakers, participants and the organizing team for making the seminar a meaningful and impactful initiative.
Through OKNO 2026, ABTEC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting research culture, encouraging women in science and fostering innovation that contributes to sustainable societal development.
OKNO 2026 Organising Team Ms. Simi, Ms. Fathima, Ms. Saritha, Ms. Ashwathy, Ms. Nelina & Ms. Sunimol.
