Volume: 02 | Issue: 07
Coverage: 01 to 15 April  2025

Editorial Team (Odd Issue)

EDITORIAL ADVISOR
Dr SRIDEVI V
DIRECTOR
IFIM College (Autonomous)

EDITOR
Dr FREDRICK RUBAN A
Assistant Professor of English
Department of Languages

STUDENT EDITOR
 YERUVA AKSHITHA
BBA (2023 - 2026)

WRITER
WAHIDA BEGUM
BCA (2024 - 2027)

STUDENT EDITOR (GUEST)
 SANJAY N
BCom (2023 - 2026)

WRITER (GUEST)
SHWETA SEKAR
BBA (2024 - 2027)

REPORTER
KARTHIK JOSHI
BBA (2024 - 2027)

REPORTER
JAYASHREE
BBA (2024 - 2027)

CAMPUS INSIGHT

OPEN MIC EVENT

On 09 April 2025, the PEP Department IFIM College hosted an engaging and inspiring Open Mic event in the college auditorium. The event was coordinated by a team of six enthusiastic student convenors from the first semester MBA (PGCET | 2024 - 2026), who ensured the smooth execution of all activities. The Open Mic aimed to provide students with a platform to express themselves freely, showcase their unique talents and foster a strong sense of community within the campus. The event began with a formal welcome extended to the jury members: Dr Jude Ashmi E, Dr Sathya, Dr Fredrick Ruban A, and Prof. Niji Nelson, alongside the PEP faculty convenors—Prof. Bovina, Prof. Shalini Prakash, and Prof. Venkatesh B. B. A brief introduction was given by the host, highlighting the objectives of the event: encouraging creative expression, boosting self-confidence, and creating a safe and inclusive space for all voices.

CREATIVE NEXUS 

“The Sculptor and the Stone”

In a small village near the sea, there was an old sculptor named Vikram. He had spent his entire life chiselling stone and creating statues that captured both the grace and strength of the human form. His work was admired far and wide yet he was truly happy or satisfied with it. Every sculpture no matter how perfect it was left him with a sense of something unfinished something more to discover. 

One day a young apprentice named Raghav came to Vikram’s workshop eager to learn the craft of stone sculpting. He was young full of ambition and certain that he could become great in no time. Vikram welcomed him and gave him his first task: to sculpt a simple stone block into a figure of a woman holding a jar. For weeks Raghav hammered and hit the stone again and again. His hands started to hurt and small wounds appeared because of all the hard work. But when he finally revealed the stone to Vikram the figure was lopsided with crooked features and a misshapen jar.

Raghav stood anxiously, awaiting judgment. “I know it’s not perfect, Master, but I have worked so hard! I was sure this would be my best sculpture.”

Vikram studied the stone quietly. He didn’t speak for a long time and Raghav’s anxiety grew with each passing second. Finally, Vikram placed his hand on the rough surface of the stone and said, “This is a good first step, Raghav. But remember, the stone doesn’t tell you how it should be shaped. You must listen to it.”

Raghav was confused. “Listen to the stone?” 

“Yes. The stone has its own voice. It has its own rhythm. You cannot force your vision onto it you must understand it and feel it. Only then can you see what it wants to become.”

The next day, Vikram gave Raghav another stone and said, “Start again. But this time, take your time. And listen.”

Raghav, unsure but determined began to make his second sculpture. He didn’t rush. He spent hours just running his hands over the stone noticing its texture its small imperfections and its natural lines. Slowly over the course of months, the stone began to take shape — not as Raghav had planned but as the stone had quietly revealed itself to be.

When the sculpture was finished, it was not perfect. It had rough edges and some uneven surfaces but it had something more a character. It told a story in the way the lines met in the way the figure stood. It felt alive. 

Vikram smiled and placed a hand on Raghav’s shoulder. “This is not just a sculpture of stone. It is a lesson. You have learned what it means to listen not just to the stone but to yourself.”

Raghav stood in silence the weight of the lesson settling into him. He realized that it was not the masterpiece that mattered most but it was the process. The struggle, the patience, the willingness to embrace imperfections and grow through them. The true art lay not in shaping the stone but in allowing it to shape him.

And so, Raghav continued his work no longer chasing perfection but instead seeking the quiet whispers of the stone that guided him forward.

V Uday Kiran
IV Semester BCom

STUDENT MILESTONE

Congratulations 
to
Pooja and Huzra Taj

for successfully clearing one of the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA) papers Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off. IFIM is proud of your achievement and celebrates your success.

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a globally recognized professional accounting qualification. The qualification is conducted and awarded by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), UK. It equips students with the financial, accounting, auditing, and management skills needed in today’s global business environment. The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification offers numerous advantages for aspiring finance professionals. It is globally recognized in over 180 countries, making it a valuable credential for those seeking international career opportunities.

With ACCA, individuals can pursue roles in finance, auditing, accounting, and consulting across various industries worldwide. The flexibility of the program allows students to study at their own pace, making it easier to balance work and education. This flexibility is especially helpful for working professionals who want to upgrade their skills without pausing their careers. ACCA also offers online resources and global learning partners, providing accessible education from anywhere. The syllabus is designed to meet the latest industry standards and practices, ensuring relevant and up-to-date knowledge.

Employers highly value the ACCA qualification due to its focus on technical excellence, ethics, and professional skills. It enhances career growth by improving both practical and theoretical understanding. ACCA members are also part of a large global network, offering valuable networking opportunities. Additionally, the qualification is cost-effective compared to other global accounting programs. Overall, ACCA is a strong stepping stone for building a successful career in finance and accounting on a global level.

I am Pooja V., currently pursuing my B.Com 4th semester along with the ACCA qualification. I’m thrilled to share that I have successfully cleared the Financial Reporting (FR) paper in the March attempt. This achievement marks a significant milestone in my ACCA journey, and I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank my college for the constant support, encouragement, and guidance throughout this process.

I would especially like to thank my ACCA faculties Prof. Shruti and Prof. Jayesh Jadav, as well as our HOD Prof. Geetanjali, for their constant support, timely guidance, and encouragement throughout this journey.

It wasn't an easy path. I had appeared for the FR paper once before but couldn’t clear it in my first attempt. I was naturally disappointed, but I chose not to give up. Instead, I reflected on my mistakes and worked even harder the second time. That experience taught me resilience and the importance of staying committed. Preparing for the FR paper required a well-structured strategy and disciplined approach. I began by thoroughly understanding the syllabus and identifying key areas of focus. I dedicated time each day to revising concepts, practising numerical questions, and solving past year papers. Giving mock tests regularly helped me assess my progress and target weaker areas. Time management was crucial, especially when balancing college work with ACCA studies.

Consistency, determination, and a positive mindset were key in helping me clear the paper in my second attempt. The support I received from my faculty, college, and peers made a significant difference in keeping me motivated. Once again, I’m truly grateful to my mentors and my college for being instrumental in this achievement. I look forward to continuing my ACCA journey with the same spirit.

I, Huzra Taj, recently completed papers as part of my academic journey.  Coaching for these papers was provided in college, which made learning convenient and structured.  Interactive workshops and regular mock tests helped reinforce key concepts.  I appeared for the Financial Reporting paper in December 2024.  Later, I attempted the Financial Management paper in March 2025.  Thanks to the support and guidance from our faculty, I felt well-prepared.

The college environment kept me motivated and focused throughout the preparation.  I am proud to share that I cleared both papers on my first attempt.  This experience boosted my confidence and deepened my understanding of finance.  I am grateful to the college for enabling this significant academic milestone.                

FACULTY CORNER

State-Level Honor for Educational Excellence

CRITICAL PERSPECTIVE

THE NEED OF THE HOUR IN TODAYS VUCA WORLD 

In the modern business environment, accountants play a vital role that extends beyond basic bookkeeping. Critical thinking is an essential skill in the field of accounting, enabling professionals to analyse complex financial data, identify issues, make informed decisions, and provide strategic guidance. This essay explores how critical thinking is applied in accounting and why it is indispensable in the profession.

UNDERSTANDING CRITICAL THINKING IN ACCOUNTING:

Critical thinking involves the ability to analyse information objectively, evaluate various perspectives, and make reasoned judgments. In accounting, this skill is necessary for interpreting financial data, questioning irregularities, and ensuring that financial practices align with both regulations and ethical standards.

APPLICATIONS OF CRITICAL THINKING:

Accountants are responsible for interpreting financial data—not just compiling it. Critical thinking enables them to analyse trends, assess financial health, and advise on decision-making. For example, if financial statements show high profits but low cash flow, a critical thinker will investigate further to uncover the cause. Auditors must apply professional scepticism, evaluate evidence, and assess the reliability of financial information. Critical thinking helps them determine whether a company is accurately presenting its financial position and whether there is any risk of misstatement or fraud.

Accountants often face ethical dilemmas. Critical thinking empowers them to navigate these situations thoughtfully and responsibly. For instance, if an accountant suspects that revenue is being inflated, they must evaluate the evidence and consider how best to address the issue in accordance with ethical guidelines. Tax professionals must interpret complex tax laws and create strategies that are both legal and beneficial to clients. This requires analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to predict the potential long-term effects of tax decisions.

In management accounting, critical thinking supports budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation. Accountants assess whether investments are worthwhile and how to improve operational efficiency. Critical thinking is more than a desirable trait—it is a necessity in the field of accounting. As businesses grow more complex and technology takes over routine tasks, accountants must provide value through their judgment, analysis, and strategic insights. Developing strong critical thinking skills ensures that accounting professionals remain effective, ethical, and indispensable. Finally a single word, Critical Thinking = Key to Success (CT = KTS).

Prof. Seshachalam Ananthasayanam
Assistant Professor
Department of Commerce
 

CONTRIBUTORS

Dear Readers,

We are delighted to present another enriching edition of The Catalyst. Your unwavering support and enthusiasm inspire us to continue our mission of delivering insightful and thought-provoking content. It is your engagement that drives us to challenge perspectives, and spark conversations that matter. Every article, feature, and insight has been thoughtfully curated to bring you relevant, engaging, and impactful content that resonates with your curiosity and aspirations.

We appreciate your continued support and readership. Your feedback and engagement shape the evolution of The Catalyst, making it a space for shared learning and inspiration.

Thank you for being a valued part of our journey!

With gratitude,
The Editorial Team 

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Catalyst invites contributions from students and faculty members for the "Creative Nexus" and "Critical Perspectives" columns, respectively. "Creative Nexus" accepts creative works such as verses, short fiction, and cartoons, whereas "Critical Perspectives" welcomes critical write-ups from faculty on current issues, with a word limit of 500–800 words. Kindly submit your contributions to thecatalyst@ifim.edu.in

Readers are welcome to share their opinions and feedback via the same email. The editorial team would be happy to read and consider constructive feedback.