The name Communo is derived from the word “communiqué”, an apt choice for a club that focuses primarily on public speaking and soft skills—in official, professional, and semi-professional settings. Shubham, the co-ordinator, described ‘soft-skills’ as an overarching term that encapsulates seven specifics: interpersonal relationships, teamwork, leadership, communication, work ethic, problem-solving, and adaptability. Communo intends to streamline its events over the semesters to target these specific aspects of a person’s capabilities and develop them slowly.

Shubham stressed on how important soft-skills are becoming these days, with even company recruitment processes shifting towards a more holistic system. Many students rack up exceptional academic achievements, but can’t speak up in a crowd, or need their messages or emails proof-read by someone else to make sure they are saying the right things. Communo was thus built as a launchpad for students to improve their soft-skills and cover up their lapses in these areas, and become more confident individuals. By not having too many pre-requisites to entry, Communo tries to be as welcoming to all BITS students.

Last semester, Communo organized an open-mic event at Sky-lawns a week before the Mid-semester examinations. The around thirty people who attended the event all felt that the event helped them overcome their stage-fright and open up. This semester, Communo has set up a notice board in the library where members can put up articles. The librarian has also allowed members to anchor at events and talks in and around the library.

As for the future, Communo is in talks for collaborations with BITSMUN and The Public Policy club to conduct joint meets that will benefit members of both clubs. Communo is also setting up an annual leadership conclave that happens before APOGEE. Volunteering options will be open to everyone from BITS, and eminent personalities will be called to come and deliver talks in BITS during the conclave. Shubham believes the best ways to improve one’s soft skills are practice and learning from experienced people. Communo aims to foster avenues for both.

Communo cleared its second semester of probation this semester, with a two-thirds majority vote from the UC voting for the continuation of their club activities. The group is now only a semester’s probation away from becoming a full-fledged club.