Innovation lecture series “PhysioPrenure-I”

From Healing Hands to Startup Brands

Objectives

• To inspire physiotherapy students to explore entrepreneurship and innovation within the healthcare sector.
• To provide insights into transforming clinical expertise into sustainable business ventures and physiotherapy startups.
• To expose students to real-world examples of professional growth beyond traditional clinical practice.
• To enhance leadership, creativity, and strategic thinking among future physiotherapists.
• To promote understanding of ethical and patient-centred innovation in physiotherapy practice.

• PO 8. Exhibits commitment towards continuous learning and scholarly activities.
• PO 10. Demonstrate abilities to manage self, time, resources and priorities to ensure safe, effective, and sustainable services.

Summary

The Department of Physiotherapy, Jagannath University, organised its Innovation Lecture Series “PhysioPrenure–I” on 1st November 2025 under the theme “From Healing Hands to Startup Brands”. The event aimed to inspire budding physiotherapists to integrate clinical skills with entrepreneurial vision, fostering innovation in healthcare delivery and physiotherapy practice.

The session commenced with a warm welcome by Prof. (Dr.) Aditi Singh (Head, Department of Physiotherapy), who highlighted the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in modern physiotherapy. The auditorium was filled with enthusiasm as students from all BPT batches attended the event, making it a full-house academic gathering.

The distinguished Guest Speaker, Dr. Avtar Doi (PT), currently serving as Assistant Director General (A.D.G), Director & Founder of Relife Physiotherapy & HBOT Hospital, and Associate Dean, UEM Physiotherapy College, Jaipur, delivered a highly engaging and motivational lecture. With over 14 years of experience in Orthopedic and Neurological Rehabilitation, Dr. Doi shared his journey from a clinician to a successful entrepreneur, emphasising the importance of innovation, perseverance, and ethical practice in building a brand in the physiotherapy sector.

During his talk, Dr. Doi elaborated on the evolving opportunities for physiotherapists in private practice, tele-rehabilitation, fitness industries, and healthcare startups. He also discussed practical aspects such as business planning, marketing strategies, patient-centred service models, and the role of continuous learning in achieving professional success. His real-life experiences and success stories resonated deeply with the students, motivating them to envision physiotherapy as both a healing profession and an innovative enterprise.

Adding further value to the event, Dr. Amit Sraf, Director – Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC Cell), Jagannath University, was also present during the session, signifying the strong collaboration between the Department of Physiotherapy and the IIC Cell. His presence highlighted the university’s ongoing commitment to promoting innovation, research, and entrepreneurship across disciplines. The association with the IIC Cell reinforced the objective of the “PhysioPrenure” lecture series—to cultivate entrepreneurial thinking and innovative practices among physiotherapy students through institutional support and interdisciplinary collaboration. This synergy between the Department of Physiotherapy and the IIC Cell reflects Jagannath University’s holistic approach to fostering creativity, innovation, and professional growth among its learners.

The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment where students eagerly participated, asking insightful questions about startup challenges, professional identity, and innovation in practice. The event ended with a vote of thanks and presentation of a token of gratitude to the guest speaker by Dr. Aditi Singh.

Outcome

• Students gained an understanding of physiotherapy entrepreneurship and how to develop innovative healthcare models.
• The event encouraged students to think beyond conventional clinical roles and explore creative professional opportunities.
• Enhanced motivation among students to contribute to physiotherapy growth through research, startups, and innovation.
• Faculty and students recognised the importance of combining professional ethics with entrepreneurial spirit in modern practice.
• Strengthened academic-industry linkage through the speaker’s professional experience and real-world insights.

Conclusion:

The Innovation Lecture Series “PhysioPrenure–I” was a resounding success, marking a significant milestone in promoting entrepreneurial thinking among physiotherapy students at Jagannath University. The insights shared by Dr. Avtar Doi not only motivated students to pursue excellence in clinical practice but also inspired them to become innovators and leaders in the evolving field of physiotherapy. The event effectively blended academic learning with visionary inspiration, laying the foundation for future lecture series and entrepreneurial initiatives within the department.