An experiential learning programme titled BNI Astral Chapter Meeting cum “Live Business Lab” was organised at Delhi Public School, Patna on 19 August 2026 in the Multipurpose Hall. The programme was designed to provide students of Classes IX–XII with practical exposure to entrepreneurship, business communication, professional networking and real-world business practices. Approximately 80+ selected students interacted with 60+ business professionals from BNI, making the programme an enriching platform for experiential learning.

The programme followed a progressive learning approach of understanding, observing, communicating, pitching, receiving feedback and networking. Students were introduced to BNI and its professional networking practices and observed how entrepreneurs communicate their businesses through concise and effective presentations. The 30-second business pitch by BNI members particularly demonstrated the importance of clarity, confidence, personal branding and effective communication.

An inspiring segment of the programme was the address by the Principal, who shared the entrepreneurial story associated with Richard Branson and Virgin Atlantic Airways. The story helped students understand how an ordinary problem can be transformed into a business opportunity through observation, initiative and innovative thinking. Students were encouraged to develop the ability to identify opportunities in everyday challenges and approach problems with an entrepreneurial mindset.

A major highlight was the Student Start-Up Pitching Session, where five student ventures—MexSwift, ParkPoint, Nirogify, Cyber Shield and RuView—were presented before the BNI panel. Students structured their presentations around the problem, solution, value and market potential, thereby experiencing a professional business-pitching environment.

The presentations were evaluated on innovation, clarity, feasibility and overall presentation. Nirogify, presented by Ashmit Raj of Class X-H, secured the first position and received ₹5,100 and a trophy. ParkPoint, presented by Vanshika Modi of Class XII-D, secured the second position with ₹3,100 and a trophy, while Cyber Shield, presented by Tanush Anand of Class IX-E, received the second runner-up position with ₹2,100 and a trophy.

The interactive Q&A session enabled students to seek guidance from entrepreneurs on starting a business, dealing with failure, developing leadership qualities, making career decisions and building confidence. The programme concluded with a networking breakfast, allowing students to interact informally with business professionals and understand the importance of building meaningful professional relationships.

The programme helped students understand that:

· Entrepreneurship begins with identifying problems and opportunities.

· Effective communication requires clarity, confidence and concise expression.

· Business ideas must consider customer needs, feasibility and market potential.

· Professional feedback can help improve entrepreneurial ideas.

· Networking and relationship-building are important aspects of business.

· Innovation becomes meaningful when supported by planning and execution.

· Failure, adaptability and continuous learning contribute to entrepreneurial growth.