EVENT TITLE: A one-day workshop on Oyster Mushroom Cultivation

DATE: 23rd August 2025

DURATION: 1 day

VENUE: Mushroom shed & Galaxy hall

EVENT ORGANIZING HEAD: Dr. M. Kamaraj

EVENT CONVENORS: Dr. T. Ramesh & Dr. S. Suresh

NO OF PARTICIPANTS: 30

SUMMARY OF THE EVENT:

The Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram, successfully conducted a one-day workshop on Oyster Mushroom Cultivation on 23rd August 2025. The primary objective of the workshop was to impart both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills for sustainable oyster mushroom cultivation, empowering participants to utilize locally available resources for nutrition, income generation, and entrepreneurial ventures.

The event began with a warm Welcome Address by Dr. M. Kamaraj, Associate Professor and Head of the Department, who introduced the theme of the workshop and emphasized the department’s commitment to academic and research excellence.

Dr. T. Ramesh, Convenor and Assistant Professor, briefly outlined the objectives of the workshop. This was followed by a session by Dr. S. Suresh, Co-Convenor and Assistant Professor, who elaborated on the morphology, taxonomy, cultivation techniques, and marketing strategies associated with oyster mushrooms.

A hands-on training session was conducted by Dr. T. Ramesh, where participants were guided step-by-step through the cultivation process inside the mushroom cultivation shed and were encouraged to practice the techniques themselves.

The valedictory session commenced at 2:30 PM at Galaxy Hall, V Block, presided over by Dr. S. Thirumagan, Dean (Science & Humanities), and Dr. Pugalendhi, Vice Principal (Academics). They were joined by Dr. M. Kamaraj, Dr. T. Ramesh, and Dr. S. Suresh. The session opened with the Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu, followed by a special address by Dr. Thirumagan, who highlighted the importance of mushroom cultivation and the facilities available at the Department of Biotechnology, SRMIST, Ramapuram.

Dr. Pugalendhi emphasized the potential of mushroom cultivation and encouraged participants to publish their work in reputed journals. Certificates were then distributed to all participants and student volunteers from the Department of Biotechnology.

The program concluded with the National Anthem and was widely appreciated as a grand success.

OUTCOMES OF THE PROGRAM:

The One-Day Workshop on Oyster Mushroom Cultivation, organized by the Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram, on 23rd August 2025, successfully met its intended objectives. The programme provided participants with both theoretical insights and practical experience in sustainable mushroom cultivation.

A total of 30 students from Guru Nanak College actively participated in the workshop, engaging enthusiastically in both the lecture sessions and hands-on training. Through this workshop, participants:

  • Gained comprehensive knowledge about the morphology, taxonomy, and various cultivation techniques of oyster mushrooms.
  • Understood the economic and nutritional benefits of mushroom farming.
  • Acquired hands-on experience in setting up and maintaining a mushroom cultivation unit using locally available resources.
  • Developed awareness about entrepreneurship opportunities in the field of mushroom cultivation.

The event also fostered inter-institutional interaction and collaboration, providing students with a platform to enhance their practical skills and entrepreneurial mindset. The feedback received from participants was overwhelmingly positive, indicating the effectiveness and relevance of the programme.

Overall, the workshop contributed significantly to capacity building in sustainable agriculture and biotechnology applications, aligning with the department’s goal of promoting experiential learning and community impact.