Introduction to Speech Extempore | Gender Equality | SDG 5

The NIMS Institute of Engineering & Technology hosted a remarkable event on March 29, 2023, titled “Introduction, Speech Extempore.” This initiative was a testament to the institution’s commitment to fostering holistic development in students by blending technical education with essential soft skills. The event aimed to encourage creativity, spontaneity, and effective communication, key attributes for future engineers and leaders.

The Concept of Extempore Speaking

Speech extempore is an exercise in impromptu speaking where participants deliver a speech on a given topic without prior preparation. This practice tests one’s ability to think quickly, organize thoughts coherently, and present them confidently. It is a vital skill in various fields, especially engineering, where professionals often face scenarios demanding articulate and immediate responses.

Event Overview

The Speech Extempore competition at NIMS Institute brought together participants from various departments, fostering an interdisciplinary exchange of ideas. The session began with an engaging introduction to the art of extempore by esteemed faculty members, highlighting its relevance in today’s fast-paced and competitive world.

Participants were given random topics, ranging from technology and innovation to sustainability and global challenges. The diversity of themes ensured a dynamic exchange of perspectives. The event’s primary goal was not merely competition but the enrichment of the participants’ intellectual and communicative abilities.

Learning Objectives

The event aligned with NIMS University’s broader mission of holistic education. Specific objectives included:

1. Enhancing Communication Skills: Speech extempore encouraged participants to articulate their thoughts clearly and confidently, an essential skill for engineers and technologists.
2. Building Confidence: Facing an audience without preparation instills courage and self-belief, vital traits for leadership and professional success.
3. Promoting Critical Thinking: By analyzing and presenting their views on diverse topics, participants developed critical thinking and decision-making abilities.
4. Encouraging Interdisciplinary Insights: Participants brought in varied perspectives from their respective disciplines, enriching the discourse and fostering a culture of shared learning.

Highlights of the Event

• Dynamic Participation: The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation, with students showcasing remarkable poise and originality in their speeches.
• Diverse Topics: Themes ranged from contemporary technological advancements to societal challenges like gender equality, highlighting the breadth of participants’ knowledge and interests.
• Constructive Feedback: A panel of expert judges provided insightful feedback, emphasizing areas of improvement while celebrating the participants’ strengths.
• Peer Learning: The event facilitated peer-to-peer learning as participants observed and learned from each other’s techniques and perspectives.

Outcomes and Impact

The Speech Extempore event significantly impacted the students and the institution:

• Empowerment Through Expression: Students gained the confidence to express themselves effectively, a skill crucial for both personal and professional growth.
• Increased Awareness: By addressing diverse topics, participants broadened their understanding of global issues and technological trends.
• Fostering Team Spirit: The event promoted a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among students, strengthening the institution’s community ethos.

Integration with Broader Educational Goals

The event was in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education and Goal 5: Gender Equality. By providing a platform for inclusive participation, the event highlighted the institution’s dedication to creating an equitable learning environment.

NIMS University’s initiatives, such as its commitment to gender equality and the integration of sustainability into education, provided a backdrop of inspiration for the event. Many participants drew from these themes, emphasizing the relevance of education in driving societal transformation.

Conclusion

The “Introduction, Speech Extempore” event at NIMS Institute of Engineering & Technology was more than a competition; it was a celebration of ideas, spontaneity, and self-expression. By encouraging students to think on their feet and articulate their perspectives, the institution underscored its dedication to nurturing well-rounded professionals.

As NIMS continues to integrate innovative practices into its educational framework, events like this exemplify its commitment to preparing students for the complexities of the modern world. The success of the Speech Extempore event is a reminder that fostering soft skills is as crucial as imparting technical knowledge in shaping future leaders.