Textile and handloom Seminar was organized by Jd institute of fashion technology Cochin on December 7, 2023. The entire seminar was led by Dr May Jacob Director of Research and Project Development at Agronature, “Textile and Handloom.” The enlightening  seminar covered a variety of topics, making a lasting impression on students from the Fashion and Interior Design departments. The presentation was not only informative but also entertaining, with a welcoming address by Alna Vincent and a passionate vote of gratitude by Pratheeksha P.P.

Alna Vincent began the seminar by greeting the audience warmly. She thanked Dr. May Jacob for bringing her knowledge to the institute in her introductory remarks. Her motivating words acted as a warm-up for the smart discussion that followed. 

Introduction to Handloom Textiles and Traceability where Dr. May began the session by offering a complete overview of handloom textiles, explaining the distinguishing characteristics that set them apart. She emphasized the importance of traceability in handloom products, emphasizing the relevance of understanding the origin and journey of each cloth.

The seminar then moved its focus to co-operatives functioning in the handloom sector, with a special emphasis on Kerala, India, receiving special attention. Dr. May shed emphasis on the cooperative efforts within these co-operatives, demonstrating the communal spirit that drives the region’s handloom industry.

Dr May Jacob strongly emphasized the struggles and tribulations of people involved in handloom production when addressing the challenges faced by weavers. The seminar provided a heartbreaking peek into the realities of the industry, from economic problems to the preservation of traditional workmanship.the necessity of excellent marketing and communication in promoting handloom products. She gave insights into effective initiatives and emphasized the importance of conscientious consumerism in maintaining the handloom sector.

Students actively participated in an interactive exercise to reinforce the concepts that were given.  Dr. May separated them into groups and assigned them the tasks of developing a brand, generating items, and designing a marketing strategy for handloom textiles. At the session’s conclusion, students pitch their innovative ideas, showcasing their newfound understanding of the subject matter.

Participants came from a variety of disciplines, including students from all Fashion departments and second-year Interior Design students pursuing both BSc and MSc programs.

This interdisciplinary approach enriched the conversations and promoted a comprehensive understanding of handloom textiles.

Pratheeksha P.P. offered an enthusiastic vote of thanks on behalf of the institute. Dr. May Jacob’s excellent insights were praised, and the students were commended for their enthusiastic engagement. Pratheeksha underlined the significance of such events in molding students’ academic and professional careers.

Finally, Dr. May Jacob’s seminar at the JD Institute of Fashion Technology in Cochin was an interesting session that not only improved students’ knowledge of handloom textiles but also provided them with practical insights through the interactive branding exercise. The event acted as a catalyst for the development of creativity, awareness, and a greater respect for the complicated world of handloom.