Media Release
Mangaluru, Jan 23: Yenepoya Research Centre for Finance and Entrepreneurship Development (YEN-REFINED), Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce, and Management (YIASCM), Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) is organising a three-day national level workshop on ‘Multivariate Analysis Using SmartPLS and Strategies for Publishing- hands on Practice’ on January 21, 22 and 23.
The workshop is focused on hands-on training in multivariate analysis using SmartPLS software, covering techniques like exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, path modelling, and mediation and moderation analysis. It is also emphasized on strategies for effective academic publishing, including manuscript preparation and journal selection.
The workshop commenced with an inaugural ceremony on January 21, setting the tone for three days of intensive learning. The ceremony began with a solemn prayer led by Saleeth Mohammed, student of bachelor of arts (communication & design), YIASCM, followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp by the esteemed dignitaries. The chief guest, V S Balasubramanian, joint director, Bankers Institute of Rural Development (BIRD), Mangaluru, and the guest of honour, Dr Sreejesh S, associate professor, IIM Kozhikode, Kerala, graced the occasion. The session was presided over by Prof Arun A Bhagwath, principal and dean of the faculty of science at YIASCM, alongside other notable dignitaries, including Prof Shareena P, vice principal and dean of the faculty of commerce & management, Prof Jeevan Raj and Narayan Sukumara, vice principals of YIASCM, and Dr Niyaz Panakaje, coordinator of YEN-REFINED, YIASCM.
S M Riha Parvin, assistant professor, YEN-REFINED, YIASCM, delivered the welcome address and introduced the distinguished guests. Dr Niyaz Panakaje highlighted the importance of using SmartPLS for advanced data analysis and emphasized the need for collaboration among researchers to enhance the quality of research outputs. He stressed the significance of publishing in reputed journals to boost academic credibility and discussed the growth potential of the centre in enhancing impactful research. Dr Niyaz Panakaje also urged participants to identify industry-relevant problems and integrate postgraduate and undergraduate students with researchers to create a holistic and collaborative research ecosystem.
V S Balasubramanian, in his inaugural address, emphasized the importance of evidence-based policymaking and the need for research outcomes to benefit society at large. He encouraged researchers to contribute meaningfully to societal development, underscoring their role in building a great nation. Highlighting the significance of improving the quality of research papers, he advocated for collaboration among scholars to foster impactful work. He also urged participants to actively engage in the workshop to enhance their knowledge and skills, paving the way for more effective and meaningful research contributions.
Dr Sreejesh S, the guest of honour and resource person, highlighted the importance of the workshop in enhancing research skills and improving the quality of publications. He highlighted the need to focus on the level and impact of publications by targeting prestigious journals and selecting appropriate areas for publication. He stressed the importance of having a clear and well-defined problem statement, along with a deep understanding of the paper’s conceptual framework and analysis. Dr Sreejesh also underscored the significance of ownership in research, encouraging participants to take responsibility for their work with proper knowledge and commitment, ensuring meaningful and high-quality contributions to their field.
Prof Arun A Bhagwath, principal and dean of faculty of science, in his presidential remarks, spoke about the transformative power of good research in addressing societal needs and driving positive change. He emphasized the importance of selecting research topics that are ethical, novel, and impactful. Highlighting the need for cognitive and metacognitive skills, he urged researchers to identify gaps in existing knowledge effectively. He also stressed the value of a systematic approach to research methods, supported by a robust empirical design.
Furthermore, Prof Bhagwath underscored the importance of ensuring that data is transferable and replicable while fostering critical thinking throughout the research process to enhance its credibility and relevance.
Prof Shareena P, vice principal and dean of faculty of commerce and management, in her concluding remarks, pointed out the importance of identifying a clear and impactful problem statement as the foundation of effective research. She encouraged participants to attend workshops regularly to stay updated with evolving technologies and advancements in their fields. Emphasizing the value of networking and collaboration, she underscored how such connections can enrich research outcomes. Additionally, Prof Shareena P stressed the need to focus on publishing high-quality papers on topics that hold the potential to create a meaningful impact in future.
The inaugural session seamlessly transitioned into the first day of knowledge enhancement workshop, to be followed by 2 more days of rigorous academic discourse led by Dr Sreejesh S. The workshop attracted 38 participants across the country, marking a significant step towards enhancing their research capabilities.
The event was coordinated by Dr Niyaz Panakaje, along with Dr Shakira Irfana, associate professor of YEN-REFINED, YIASCM, who hosted the inaugural. Rovina Soans, assistant professor, YEN-REFINED, YIASCM proposed the vote of thanks. Dr Madhura K, Ms S M Riha Parvin, assistant professors at YEN-REFINED, Babitha Shali Lasrado, Shafeena, Niha Sheikh, Mural Henrita, Bhavyashree, Vedavathi – junior research fellows at YEN-REFINED, along with the research interns of YEN-REFINED, YIASCM were instrumental in managing the event’s arrangements. The workshop’s key takeaways are expected to substantially elevate the research proficiency of the participants, enabling them to contribute more effectively to the academic community.
The workshop set a new benchmark in enhancing expertise in multivariate analysis and academic publishing. Participants will be empowered to apply SmartPLS tools effectively and produce impactful research, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to academic excellence.