Assam University’s Department of Business Administration Hosts Inspiring Workshop on Happiness

way2barak, February 10: The Department of Business Administration at Assam University, Silchar, successfully organized a one-day workshop on happiness, bringing together esteemed dignitaries and thought leaders from Bhutan, the globally recognized land of happiness. The workshop was graced by Dr. Lahto Jamba, former President and Director of Gedu College of Business Studies, Bhutan, and the founder of Bhutan’s first business college. Adding to the event’s prestige, Mr. Minjur Dorji, former Home Minister of Bhutan, also joined the session, along with the Vice-Chancellor of Assam University, the Dean of Business Administration, Dr. H. Ramanda Singh, and the Head of the Department, Dr. Debomalya Ghose. The event was meticulously organized under the guidance of esteemed Assistant Professor Dr. Deepjyoti Choudhury.

The program commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, accompanied by a spiritual song seeking divine blessings. In his inaugural speech, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the significance of simplicity in attaining true happiness. He emphasized that while being simple is often challenging, one must strive for it and keep the inner child alive while maintaining a balance by avoiding childishness. He also stressed the importance of being proactive rather than reactive in life.

Following this, Dr. H. Ramanda Singh, Dean of the Department, elaborated on how happiness is nurtured within a business school environment. Coming from a mathematical background, Dr. Singh proposed a simple yet profound formula for happiness: Happiness = Gratitude + Connection + Purpose + Self-care. He underscored the importance of eudaimonic happiness—focusing on personal growth and meaning—rather than merely pursuing hedonic pleasures. He encouraged students to embrace both the highs and lows of life to achieve true contentment.

In the pursuit of competition and success, people often forget true happiness. The quest for genuine happiness is the most sought-after feeling for the ever-busy students, teachers, and staff in an institution. Recognizing this need, the Department of Business Administration has taken a pioneering step by organizing this unique workshop at Assam University, bringing in resource persons from the globally acclaimed land of happiness. This initiative marks the first of its kind at the university, setting a precedent for future discussions on well-being and personal fulfillment.

The technical sessions provided deep insights into happiness and holistic well-being. Mr. Minjur Dorji shared his personal journey in strengthening Bhutan’s education sector under the guidance of the King of Bhutan. He also introduced students to Buddhist philosophies on leading a happy and successful life. The next session featured Dr. Lahto Jamba, who spoke about Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) indicators and their role in holistic human development. He introduced a fundamental triadic formula for happiness: Right understanding of self + Healthy human relationships + Harmonious interaction with nature = Mutual happiness and prosperity.

The workshop concluded with a traditional Bengali lunch at the department, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and reflection. This program proved invaluable for MBA and BBA students, equipping them with a deeper understanding of work-life balance and the true meaning of happiness beyond materialistic pursuits in a world dominated by social media.

The Department of Business Administration remains committed to organizing such enriching sessions that blend academic learning with personal well-being, preparing students for successful and fulfilling careers.