Symbiosis Law School, Pune, a constituent of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), organized its Zero Day Orientation Programme for newly admitted students of the B.B.A./B.A./B.Com. LL.B. programmes on 6th July 2026. The programme witnessed the participation of over 750 newly admitted students, along with their parents, faculty members, and administrative staff. The programme was designed to formally welcome the incoming batch and introduce them to the institution’s academic philosophy, professional values, administrative framework, and campus culture. The event also provided an opportunity for parents to gain an understanding of the institute’s vision and student support systems. The programme schedule included registration, ceremonial proceedings, addresses by institutional leaders, introductions to faculty and administrative staff, orientation on campus regulations, followed by lunch, campus tours, and faculty interaction sessions.

The programme commenced with the registration of students and parents, followed by the arrival of the dignitaries and the traditional lighting of the lamp and the Saraswati Vandana, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. The ceremony was followed by the introduction of the Director by the compere.

The Welcome Address was delivered by Prof. Dr. Shashikala Gurpur, Director, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, Dean, Faculty of Law, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), and Jean Monnet Chair Professor. In her address, she highlighted the institution’s commitment to providing student-centric legal education rooted in academic excellence, innovation, and ethical responsibility. Referring to the institution’s journey towards its Golden Jubilee Year, she reflected on the remarkable growth and achievements of Symbiosis Law School since its establishment. Dr. Gurpur emphasized the evolving role of legal education in shaping India’s future in a rapidly changing global landscape. She encouraged students to view their legal education not merely as a professional qualification but as a means to contribute meaningfully to society and the justice delivery system. Stressing the importance of integrity, commitment, and lifelong learning, she urged the students to uphold the dignity of the legal profession and the values of the institution throughout their academic journey. The address further highlighted the institution’s strategic focus on professional readiness, research excellence, comprehensive legal education, digital learning initiatives, and internationalization. Students were encouraged to actively engage in academic research, interdisciplinary learning, and global opportunities that would prepare them to become competent legal professionals capable of addressing contemporary legal challenges.

Following the welcome address, the faculty members of the undergraduate law programmes were introduced to the incoming students. The session familiarized students with the academic departments, teaching faculty, and the diverse areas of specialization available at the institution. Subsequently, the administrative staff were introduced by the Administrative Officer Mr. Vinay Nindane, enabling students to identify the various support services available to them during their academic journey.

An important session on Hostel and Campus Rules was conducted by Col. G. S. Radkar (Retd.), Senior Campus Administrator. He briefed the students on campus discipline, security protocols, hostel regulations, safety measures, and the facilities available across the Symbiosis Viman Nagar Campus. The session emphasized responsible conduct and the importance of maintaining a safe and inclusive campus environment.

The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Aparajita Mohanty, Deputy Director (Academics), Symbiosis Law School, Pune, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, faculty members, administrative staff, parents, and students for their participation. Following the formal programme, students proceeded for lunch and later participated in a campus tour and interactive session with faculty members, allowing them to familiarize themselves with the academic infrastructure, learning resources, and campus facilities. The Zero Day Orientation Programme successfully introduced the newly admitted students to the academic environment, institutional values, and professional expectations of Symbiosis Law School, Pune. By emphasizing excellence, integrity, collaboration, and justice, the orientation effectively laid a strong foundation for the students’ legal education and their future professional development.

Dignitaries on the dais during the Zero Day Orientation Programme 2026, welcoming the incoming B.A. LL.B., B.B.A. LL.B., and B.Com. LL.B. (Hons.) batch at Symbiosis Law School, Pune

The traditional lamp-lighting ceremony by Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur, Director, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, Dean, Faculty of Law, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), marked the auspicious beginning of the Zero Day Orientation Programme

Dr. Shashikala Gurpur, Director, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, Dean, Faculty of Law, SIU, delivering the Welcome Address, introducing the institution's mission, core values, academic vision, and commitment to nurturing socially responsible legal

Parents and guardians attend the Zero Day Orientation Programme, gaining insights into the institution’s academic vision, student support systems, and campus environment

Mr. Vinay Nindane, the Administrative Officer, introduces the Core Administrative Staff, familiarizing students with the key administrative departments and support services that facilitate their academic and campus experience

The newly admitted undergraduate law students actively participate in the Zero Day Orientation Programme, marking the beginning of their academic journey

Faculty members interacted with the incoming students during the campus tour, introducing them to the various academic and student support facilities while addressing their queries about campus life and learning resources

The Welcome Address by Dr. Shashikala Gurpur was live-streamed for parents, enabling them to be part of the inaugural Zero Day Orientation Programme alongside the incoming students