St. Francis College for Women

Session on 'Making the Most of the Case Study Method- A Guide for Management Students'

February 18th

The Department of Management Studies conducted a session on 'Making the Most of the Case Study Method- A Guide for Management Students,' led by internationally renowned Case Author Dr. Indu Parepu, ICFAI Case Research Centre.

The Department of Telugu of St. Francis College for Women signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Telugu, functioning under the Central Institute of Indian Languages.

February 13th

The Department of Telugu of St. Francis College for Women signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Telugu, functioning under the Central Institute of Indian Languages. The MoU was signed in the presence of Prof. Madabhushi Sampath Kumar, Director of the Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Telugu; Principal Prof. Uma Joseph, and Dr. Lingala Mangamma, Head of the Department of Telugu. The MoU will enable students to gain deeper insights into the Classical Telugu language and literature, and strengthen academic engagement and research orientation among students of Telugu.

Guest lecture on “Telugu Literature – Personality Development”

February 13th

The Department of Telugu and Harivillu Club organised a guest lecture on “Telugu Literature – Personality Development” for the second-language students of BA, BCom, and BSc I & II years. The session was delivered by Prof. Madabhushi Sampath Kumar, who eloquently explained how literature shapes character, values, and personal growth.

‘Pause and Breathe: A Mindfulness Circle'

February 12th

The Equal Opportunity Cell, in collaboration with Aasara Counselling Centre, organised a session titled, ‘Pause and Breathe: A Mindfulness Circle’ for differently-abled students. The session was conducted by Ms. Maurvi and Ms. Soujanya, during which the students were guided to use sensory grounding techniques mindfully.

Workshop titled "Decoding Biological Sequences: Alignment and BLAST Basics"

February 12th

The Department of Biotechnology organised a workshop titled "Decoding Biological Sequences: Alignment and BLAST Basics" for Biotechnology II year SEC students under the Star DBT scheme. The resource person, Ms. Anukrati Sharma, Research Scholar, Sowpati Lab- Computational Biology, CSIR-CCMB, Hyderabad, provided a hands-on training to the students on the basics of alignment and the BLAST tool.

Mediasphere 2026

February 11th

The Department of Mass Communication and Journalism commemorated its annual intercollegiate fest, ‘Mediasphere 2026’. The event featured distinguished guest Shri Rahul Ravindran, an actor and director, along with Director Shri Gunasekhar accompanied by the team of the film ‘Euphoria.’

Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on ‘Power BI Essentials: Visualising, Analysing and Reporting Data’

February 12th

The Department of Statistics organised a Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on ‘Power BI Essentials: Visualising, Analysing and Reporting Data’. Approximately 40 faculty members across all streams participated in this one-day, practical session designed to empower faculty to proficiently transform data into dashboards.

Arthashastra’26

February 6th

Arthashastra’26, the 18th edition of the flagship management and commerce festival organised by the COFEE Club, Department of Commerce, served as a celebration of strategy, leadership, and innovation. The event was honoured by the presence of the Chief Guest, Mr. V.C. Sajjanar, whose insights on discipline and leadership made a profound impression.

Meeting focused on the shared achievements and meaningful impact of our continued partnership with the U.S. Consulate Hyderabad.

February 10th

We were delighted to welcome Mr. Ketan Thakkar, Public-Private Partnership Lead for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, Mr. Jordan Wilson, Public Diplomacy Desk Officer for India and Bhutan, and Mr. Alexander McLaren, Public Affairs Officer, to St. Francis College for Women. The delegation met with Prof. Uma Joseph, Principal, and Dr. Sr. Sherly, Vice-Principal. The meeting focused on the shared achievements and meaningful impact of our continued partnership with the U.S. Consulate Hyderabad.

St. Francis College signed an MOU with WE Hub

February 10th

St. Francis College signed an MOU with WE Hub, an initiative of the Government of Telangana for WE Enable Program. WE Enable is a flagship capacity-building program designed to empower young women students with entrepreneurial thinking, career readiness, and leadership skills, preparing them for future careers, innovation and impact beyond the classroom. Through this collaboration, our students will gain access to structured learning, expert mentorship, and a larger ecosystem that nurtures confidence, ambition and real-world exposure.

Field visit to the University of Hyderabad

February 9th

The Department of Physics and Electronics organised a field visit to the University of Hyderabad, during which students observed advanced research instruments. The visit provided valuable insights into real laboratory environments and the operation of modern research facilities.

Workshop on 'Experimental Techniques for Magnetic Material Analysis'

February 9th

The Department of Physics, in collaboration with Texla Instruments, Hyderabad, hosted a workshop on 'Experimental Techniques for Magnetic Material Analysis' under STAR DBT. The workshop provided an opportunity for students to explore magnetic susceptibility and resistivity measurements.

Alumnae Guest Lecture Series-1

February 9th

The Francis Alumnae Association, in collaboration with the Departments of Biotechnology and Chemistry, organised an Alumnae Guest Lecture Series-1. The resource persons for this enriching session were Dr. Manasa Madasu, Head - Technical Sales and Market Intelligence at Risen Sun Digitisation, and Ms. Kanchan Basbire, Business Development Associate, Laura Labs.

Surveygana 7.0 - an Inter Collegiate Fest

February 7th

The Department of Statistics organised "Surveygana 7.0 - an Inter Collegiate Fest.” Approximately 350 students participated in the fest which aimed to bridge the gap between the theoretical aspects and the practical applications of Statistics in the contemporary world.

Hands-on training on “Applications of ODE using Octave Software”

February 6th

The Department of Mathematics organised a hands-on training on “Applications of ODE using Octave Software” for second-year BSc Physical Science students. The resource person was Prof. Hari Ponnamma Rani, Department of Mathematics, NIT Warangal. The workshop was designed to enable students to use open-source mathematical software for engineering and science applications.

One-day seminar commemorating World Wildlife Day on the theme “Conserving Health: Heritage and Habitat for Sustenance of Plants and Animals”

February 7th

The Departments of Zoology and Botany jointly organised a one-day seminar commemorating World Wildlife Day on the theme “Conserving Health: Heritage and Habitat for Sustenance of Plants and Animals” under the strengthening component of DBT, for the students of I and II-year BSc (BZC, ANBC, ANZC, and BtZC). Mrs. Nirmala, Former Head of the Department of Zoology and Advocate, served as the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker. The seminar Sessions I and II were delivered by Mr. Karuthapandi, Scientist-D, Freshwater Biology Regional Centre, Zoological Survey of India, and Dr. Jnanesha, Senior Scientist, CSIR-CIMAP Research Centre, Hyderabad, respectively. Students actively participated in the poster presentations organised as part of the seminar. The seminar was informative and impactful, fostering awareness and responsibility towards protecting plant and animal life.

Guest lecture on “Developmental Tasks and Delays – Motor and Cognitive.”

February 5th

The Department of Psychology organised a guest lecture on “Developmental Tasks and Delays – Motor and Cognitive.” The resource person was Dr. Pooja Jha Nair, Founder-Secretary of Total Solution Rehabilitation Society, Hyderabad.

Workshop on “New Age Treatments for Anxiety, OCD, and Depression”

February 4th

The Department of Psychology conducted a workshop on “New Age Treatments for Anxiety, OCD, and Depression” for second-year M.Sc. Applied Psychology students. The resource person was Ms. Vasudha Bharade, Counselling Psychologist at Asha Neuromodulation Clinic.

Guest lecture on 'Writing for TV Programmes'

February 6th

The Department of Mass Communication and Journalism organised a guest lecture on 'Writing for TV Programmes.' The resource person was Mr. Vamsi Vikas, Creative Producer and Director, Big Boss 9 Buzz.

Hands-on training on “Applications of Differential Equations using MATLAB”

February 5th

The Department of Mathematics organised a hands-on training on “Applications of Differential Equations using MATLAB” for first-year BSc Physical Science students. The resource person was Dr. A. Surjeet, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, Sreenidhi University, Ghatkesar. The workshop was designed for the students to gain practical experience using MATLAB to plot and compare analytical and numerical solutions of differential equations using MATLAB graphics tools.

A guest lecture titled “Unlocking Complexity: How Linear Algebra Drives Complexity”

February 5th

The Department of Mathematics organised a guest lecture titled “Unlocking Complexity: How Linear Algebra Drives Complexity” for B.Sc final-year students. The session was delivered by Dr. J. Vijayasekhar from the Department of Mathematics, School of Science, GITAM, Hyderabad. Through this lecture, students gained awareness of the real-world applications of linear algebra.

One-day workshop on "Embedded System and IoT"

February 9th

The Department of Electronics organised a one-day workshop on "Embedded System and IoT" in association with Pantech E-learning for the students of BSc III E.

Intercollegiate Chem Fest, titled 'Mendeleev's Legacy',

February 5th

The Department of Chemistry organised an Intercollegiate Chem Fest, titled 'Mendeleev's Legacy', in commemoration of National Periodic Table Day. The event featured competitions such as Sci-Fi Tambola, Chemistry Idol, and Roleplay. Students from various colleges actively participated, upholding the heritage of Chemistry.

Guest lecture titled "Hormonal Harmony: Understanding Women's Endocrine Health and Quality of Life"

February 5th

The Department of Zoology organised a guest lecture titled "Hormonal Harmony: Understanding Women's Endocrine Health and Quality of Life" for the students of BSc III A and III N. The guest speaker, Dr. K Neelaveni, M.D., D.M., Professor and Head, Department of Endocrinology at Osmania Medical College from Osmania General Hospital, Hyderabad, emphasised the importance of hormonal balance for a healthy future by explaining how these silent, powerful messengers maintain harmony, influencing growth, metabolism, sleep, and moods.

Guest lecture on 'Career Guidance'

February 5th

The Department of Mathematics organised a guest lecture on 'Career Guidance' for final-year BSc students under the STAR DBT COLLEGE (Strengthening Component). The resource person was Mr. Faizul Hassan, Senior Manager from IDP India. The session spotlighted dynamic career paths for mathematics graduates—data science, analytics, actuarial science, finance, and research—across India and abroad. Students were urged to master analytical and programming skills, secure internships for real-world exposure, find mentors for guidance, and relentlessly hone their abilities.

Prof. Uma Joseph, Principal, was invited as the Chief Guest for the One-Day National Seminar on “Gandhian Vision of Democratic Governance in India: Ethics, Institutions and Inclusive Development”

February 5th

Prof. Uma Joseph, Principal, was invited as the Chief Guest for the One-Day National Seminar on “Gandhian Vision of Democratic Governance in India: Ethics, Institutions and Inclusive Development” held at Loyola Academy, Secunderabad. She also delivered the Chief Guest Address, sharing valuable insights on Gandhian ethics and inclusive

Online Script Writing Course in collaboration with DBIMA (Don Bosco International Media Academy), Paris.

February 4th

The Department of Mass Communication and Journalism inaugurated the Online Script Writing Course in collaboration with DBIMA (Don Bosco International Media Academy), Paris. We extend our gratitude to DBIMA for this collaboration and wish the participants a rewarding learning experience.

Guest lecture on ‘Indian Contract Act 1872’

February 4th

The Department of Commerce organised a guest lecture on ‘Indian Contract Act 1872’ for first-year BCom students. The resource person was Ms. K. Lavanya, Practising Cost and Management Accountant.

Guest lecture titled "Management Accounting as a Tool for Strategic Planning and Competitive Advantage"

February 4th

The Department of Commerce organised a guest lecture titled "Management Accounting as a Tool for Strategic Planning and Competitive Advantage" for final year students of BCom Honours, International Business, Computer Applications, Accounting & Finance and second year students of BCom IPP. The resource person was Ms. K. Lavanya, Practising Cost and Management Accountant.

Talk on Emotional Well-Being Through Yoga

February 4th

The Department of Commerce organised a seminar titled “Srujana Sree Memorial Talk” on the topic “Emotional Well Being through Yoga,” for all BCom first-year students. This talk aimed to promote emotional well-being among young minds.

A guest Lecture on "From Risk to Recovery: A Cancer Awareness Talk"

February 4th

In commemoration of World Cancer Day, the Department of Biotechnology organised a guest lecture for the students of BSc 1 A/F and second-year Biotechnology SEC students. The guest speaker, Dr. Geetha Nagasree N, Consultant Surgical Oncologist at CARE Hospitals, Hyderabad, spoke on the importance of cancer prevention, timely screening and breaking myths surrounding cancer. ‎

Cancer Awareness talk

February 4th

The Department of Commerce and NSS, in collaboration with Lion's Club Hyderabad, hosted a Cancer Awareness talk on February 4, 2026, as part of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3. During the session, Dr. Sindhura Durga Chitikela, a renowned Medical Oncologist, shared insights on cancer prevention and treatment, emphasising early detection and support.

Field visit to the IIMR-Nutrihub - Department of Nutrition

February 3rd

The Department of Nutrition organised a field visit for UG third-year Applied Nutrition students to the IIMR-Nutrihub in Rajendranagar, under the DBT Star College Scheme. The visit provided students with exposure to recent breakthroughs and innovations in millet research.

The official poster for Mediasphere 2026, the annual intercollegiate fest

February 1st

The official poster for Mediasphere 2026, the annual intercollegiate fest organised by the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism, and the Communis Club, has been unveiled.

Hands-on training on “Exploring Mathematics with Python“

February 1st

The Department of Mathematics organised a hands-on training on “Exploring Mathematics with Python“ for second-year students of BSc Software Engineering under the STAR DBT COLLEGE (Strengthening Component) in virtual mode. The resource person was Prof. A. Satyanarayana Reddy, Department of Mathematics, Shiv Nadar University, Delhi. The workshop was designed for the students to gain practical experience using Python to visualise complex functions, dissect concepts in linear algebra, patterns in number theory, simulate probabilistic events, and even test numerical methods from calculus.

Guest lecture on ‘Introduction to Proteomics: Concepts, Tools and its Applications’

February 1st

The Department of Biochemistry organised a guest lecture on ‘Introduction to Proteomics: Concepts, Tools and its Applications’ for BSc final-year (C & F section) students under the DBT Star College. The resource person was Dr. Monica Kannan, Scientific Officer from the University of Hyderabad.

Hands-on workshop on ‘Molecular Docking: Computational Modeling of Protein Ligand Interactions’

February 1st

The Department of Biochemistry organised a hands-on workshop on ‘Molecular Docking: Computational Modeling of Protein Ligand Interactions’ for B.Sc final year (3C & 3F) students under the DBT Star College. The resource person was Dr. K. Monica, Assistant Professor of Biotechnology at Rayalaseema University, Kurnool.

Training program on ‘Laboratory Safety & Quality: GLP, Food Hygiene & First-Aid’

February 1st

The Departments of Biochemistry and Nutrition organised a training program on ‘Laboratory Safety & Quality: GLP, Food Hygiene & First-Aid’ for the lab staff under the DBT Star College. The resource persons were Dr. Vandana Agarwal, MBBS, MEM (MRCEM), Consultant Emergency Medicine KIMS, Sunshine Hospitals and Mr. M. Sreedhar Chouhan, Technical Officer, ICMR - National Institute of Nutrition.

Hands-on training on ‘Computational Thinking With Mathematica’

January 30th

The Department of Mathematics organised a hands-on training on ‘Computational Thinking With Mathematica’ for BSc final-year students under the STAR DBT COLLEGE (Strengthening Component). The resource person was Prof. G Srinivas from the Department of Mathematics at Geetanjali College of Engineering Science and Technology, Keesara. The workshop was designed for the students to solve mathematical problems numerically, involving equations, systems of equations, matrices, and eigenvalue problems using Mathematica.

Training Program for College Teachers on Spectral Interpretation, Green Chemistry, Nanotechnology, and ChemDraw

January 30th

The Department of Chemistry organised a Training Program for College Teachers on Spectral Interpretation, Green Chemistry, Nanotechnology, and ChemDraw under the STAR DBT COLLEGE (Strengthening Component). The resource persons were Dr. Sarbani Pal, Associate Professor and HOD of Chemistry from MNR PG College, Dr. Sabiha Fatima, Dr. Shikha Chander, and Dr. M. Bhargavi from the Department of Chemistry, St. Francis College for Women.

The College Magazine Committee announced the call for submissions for the forthcoming edition of the college magazine, themed ‘Imprints.’

January 30th

The College Magazine Committee announced the call for submissions for the forthcoming edition of the college magazine, themed ‘Imprints.’ Members of the Student Editorial Board were formally presented with their badges, by the Principal and the Vice Principal. Students are invited to submit their original works in accordance with the prescribed guidelines. All submissions must be sent to the official email ID magazine@sfc.ac.in by February 28, 2026. Updates and announcements related to the magazine will be shared through the official Instagram page, @sfc.college.magazine

Ms. Nikhita Anireddy from BSc BTMBC 3C was awarded the Best Oral Presentation Award for her research work

January 20th

Ms. Nikhita Anireddy from BSc BTMBC 3C was awarded the Best Oral Presentation Award for her research work entitled “Synthesis, Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Fe(II) Complexes of Amino Acid–Derived Schiff Bases: A Combined Experimental and Computational Study” under the guidance of Dr. K. Susmitha at the 62nd Annual Convention of Chemists (ACC) 2025 and the International Conference on “Net Zero Goal & Sustainability: Role of Chemical Sciences in Green Energy, Circular Economy, and Prosperity of India”, held from 18–20 December 2025, jointly organized by the Department of Chemistry, Madras Christian College, and the Indian Chemical Society.

One-Day Workshop on "Feminist Methodology in Social Sciences Research: From Theory to Practice"

January 29th

The Department of Political Science organised a One-Day Workshop on "Feminist Methodology in Social Sciences Research: From Theory to Practice" for second and final year students of Political Science. The resource persons were Prof. Aparna Rayaparol, Dr. Gitanjali Joshua and Ms. Tejaswini Madhabhushi.

A two-day workshop titled “Nuclei Implantation Techniques in Pearl Culture”

January 29th

The Department of Zoology, in association with Indian Pearl Farm, organised a two-day workshop titled “Nuclei Implantation Techniques in Pearl Culture” for final-year students of Zoology. The workshop was designed to equip students with practical skills in freshwater pearl farming, bridging theory with real-world practice. Mr. Nanjappa Puggera, Founder and Lead Trainer at Indian Pearl Farm in Karnataka, was the resource person.

A Canon Demo Workshop

January 29th

The Department of Mass Communication and Journalism organized a Canon Demo Workshop in collaboration with the Canon Technical Team, Hyderabad.

Training Program for School Teachers on hands-on, guided laboratory experience on the school curriculum and laboratory safety

January 29th

The Department of Chemistry organised a Training Programme for School Teachers on hands-on, guided laboratory experience on the school curriculum and laboratory safety under the DBT STAR COLLEGE (Strengthening Component). Dr Mary Nygi Kurian, Head, Department of Chemistry at Bhavan’s Vivekananda College of Science, Humanities and Commerce, oriented the teachers to enhance lab safety and professional competencies. This was followed by best practices in teaching–learning methodologies through hands-on experience and an interactive game session, which provided exposure to recent developments in the field of science education.

Guest lecture on ‘An Introduction to American Literature’ examining Lorraine Hansberry’s play, ‘A Raisin in the Sun’

January 28th

The Department of English organised a guest lecture on ‘An Introduction to American Literature’ examining Lorraine Hansberry’s play, ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ for the students of MA English and final-year BA literature. The resource person was Dr. Soham Chakraborty, Assistant Professor at Mahindra University, Hyderabad.

Faculty Induction Program (FIP) on ‘A Structured Approach to Developing Research Proposals.’

January 22nd

The Faculty Development Cell, in collaboration with IQAC, organised the sixth session of the Faculty Induction Program (FIP) on ‘A Structured Approach to Developing Research Proposals.’ The session was led by Dr. Savitha Sukumar, Dean-Faculty of Commerce and Management, Associate Professor and Head-Dept of Commerce and Dr. V. Gayatri, Research Coordinator and Associate Professor, Dept of Microbiology.

Crescentia- Annual National Management Fest

January 24th

Arista, the BMS Student Club successfully organized the 17th edition of Crescentia, its Annual National Management Fest.

Guest lecture titled ‘Protecting Biodiversity on Earth’

January 28th

The Department of Environmental Studies organized a guest lecture titled ‘Protecting Biodiversity on Earth’ for students of BSc SE(H), BSc BTBCC and BSc BCCCAP. The resource person was Dr. Sailu Gaini.

Field Trip to Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Station

January 24th

The Department of Botany organized a field trip for the second-year Botany students of BZC and ANBC to Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Station (MAPRS), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad under the DBT STAR COLLEGE (Strengthening Component). Dr. Sampath Reddy, Research Associate and Smt.V. Krishnaveni (Scientist H) from MAPRS explained the medicinal importance of select medicinal plants and provided insights into vegetable farming using organic methods.

Experimental Workshop on Solar Powered Portable Energy Systems- Departmenet of Physics

January 27th

The Department of Physics organized a workshop on ‘Solar-powered Portable Energy Systems’ for students of BSc 3B. The session provided a hands-on experience in building a solar-powered portable power bank.

77th Republic Day Celebrations

January 26th

77th Republic Day Celebrations @ SFC

College Annual Day - 2026

January 23rd

College Annual Day - 2026

Christian Unity Octave

January 22th

St. Francis College for Women observed the Christian Unity Octave, reflecting on walking together in faith, love, and mutual understanding, serving as a reminder that despite different traditions, we are one in Christ, united by the Gospel and mission. Rev. Fr. Paul Amal SJ and Rev. Pastor Younus Samuel emphasised prayer, dialogue, and humility as key to fostering Christian unity.

Two-day workshop

January 21th

The first-year MSc Nutrition students participated in a two-day workshop and CME programme held on January 20 and 21, 2026, during PARaDIGM at AIG Hospitals, Gachibowli.

From Pack to Plate: Building Skills for Smart Food Choices

January 18th

The Faculty Development Cell and IQAC organised a Capacity Building Program titled “From Pack to Plate: Building Skills for Smart Food Choices”. The resource person was Dr. Durga Nandini from the Department of Nutrition.

After the MOU: Best Practices to Activate US–India Academic Partnerships

January 16th

The Centre for International Studies, in collaboration with American Corner Hyderabad, organised a One-Day Faculty Workshop titled “After the MOU: Best Practices to Activate US–India Academic Partnerships." The workshop was enriching and enlightening, fostering dialogue on global academic cooperation and best practices.

World Hindi Day and National Youth Day

January 17th

On the occasion of World Hindi Day and National Youth Day, the Department of Hindi, organised a guest lecture on the topic “Hindi: Past, Present, and Future.” The key speaker was Dr. Priyadarshini, from the Department of Hindi at EFLU, Hyderabad.

Novel Therapeutics to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance

January 12th

The Department of Microbiology, in collaboration with Case Western Reserve University and AMI Hyderabad, organised an international conference on ‘Novel Therapeutics to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance: Advancing Collaboration, Innovation & Sustainability.' The conference brought together scientists, clinicians, and researchers to share ideas, promote collaboration, and explore strategies to address the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance. The conference concluded by emphasising the Study Abroad Program's global learning opportunities and fostering international academic partnerships.

Yuvaflare - The Campus Fest 2026

January 10th

Yuvaflare - The Campus Fest 2026

Harivillu Club (సంక్రాంతి సంబరాలు)

January 9th

Department. of Telugu & Harivillu Club conducted various competitions on the occasion of Sankranthi-2026. The events were filled with joy, enthusiasm, and festive spirit. Everyone enjoyed the joyful moments and celebrated the true spirit of the festival together . Happy sankranthi to all.

Chowmahalla Palace

January 8th

Students of M.Sc. Computer Science (AI & ML) and M.Sc. Data Science visited the Chowmahalla Palace, experiencing its grand architecture and rich heritage. The courtyards evoked a sense of history, while the visit highlighted how AI and data analysis can aid in heritage conservation and smart tourism, making it a memorable experience.

From Battery to Drive; Build Your Own EV

January 8th

The Department of Physics held a training session titled "From Battery to Drive; Build Your Own EV" under STAR-DBT, led by Mr. Param Mandloi, Founder of GroOwn. The session raised awareness of EV adoption in India, introduced key EV types (BEV, PHEV, HEV), and provided hands-on experience with batteries, motors, controllers, and BMS, enabling students to build and test their own mini electric vehicle.