Penned By Communications Manager, Aditi Mandali
On 31st July and 1st August, Sharana Social and Development Organization marked an exciting milestone with the launch of its first round of AI workshops for college-going students from our Digital Lab and Language Lab. Bringing together 81 students from both current and alumni batches, the two-day workshop transformed our Social Centre into a vibrant space filled with curiosity, collaboration, and an eagerness to embrace the future.
The workshop was led by AI Trainer and Digital Marketing Expert, Mr. Suresh Sivakumar, whose engaging teaching style combined practical knowledge with real-world applications of Artificial Intelligence. Designed as an introductory yet hands-on learning experience, the sessions aimed to help students understand not only what AI is, but also how they can confidently use it to enhance their education, careers, and everyday lives.
Mr. Suresh Sivakumar conducting the workshop
The inaugural session was graced by Sharana’s leadership team, including CFO Mr. Murugaiyan, CEO Ms. Vandana Shah, and Operations Director Mr. A. Prakash. Addressing the students, both Mr. Murugaiyan and Ms. Vandana Shah encouraged them to make the most of this opportunity by asking questions, exploring new ideas, and embracing continuous learning. They emphasized that AI literacy is no longer optional but an essential life skill, opening doors to better-paying jobs, increased productivity, and greater career opportunities in an increasingly digital world.
Our Leadership member addressing the participants
The workshop curriculum was thoughtfully spread across two days. Day One introduced students to the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence, exploring AI in everyday life, popular AI tools, generative AI, prompt engineering, AI-assisted communication, learning, and research. Students also participated in guided hands-on exercises that helped translate theory into practice.
On Day Two, the focus shifted towards practical applications of AI. Sessions covered AI for productivity, business, marketing, content creation, presentations, image generation, customer support, online safety, privacy, and responsible AI use. The workshop concluded with a practical project, allowing participants to apply everything they had learned over the two days.
The combination of interactive discussions, demonstrations, and practical exercises kept students engaged throughout. Their enthusiasm was evident as they experimented with different AI platforms, discovered new possibilities, and built confidence in using these tools independently.
At the closing ceremony, all 81 participants received certificates in recognition of their successful completion of the workshop.
One participant shared:
“We learnt a lot; from ChatGPT, Claude AI and many other AI platforms to prompt writing, image generation, video creation, website building and much more. This exceeded my expectations of a two-day workshop. I feel much more confident about applying for jobs now. Thank you, Suresh Sir, for the wonderful classes, and thank you, Sharana, for these amazing opportunities and the delicious, replenishing meals.”
While the students were at the heart of this initiative, its success was made possible through the collective effort of the entire Sharana family. From the leadership team and programme staff to our trainers, volunteers, and dedicated ground staff, everyone joined hands to ensure that every detail—from learning materials to meals and logistics—came together seamlessly.
This workshop also reflects the growing impact of the Digital & Language Lab, made possible through the continued support of Straive. Their partnership enables us to move beyond conventional digital literacy by equipping young people with future-ready skills that are increasingly sought after in higher education and the workplace. Together, we are turning a shared vision into reality—creating opportunities where students are not only prepared to use technology but are empowered to shape the future with confidence, creativity, and purpose.
