From the SEC Centre Lead’s Desk: As the SEC India Program nears its two-year operational milestone, it offers a moment to reflect on the progress made, the partnerships forged, and the untapped potential that lies ahead. The journey has been both rewarding and inspiring. The program is steadily shaping future-ready professionals for those engaged in protein value chain industry. What SEC provides is far more than just courses. It is a global platform that fosters cross-cultural learning, continuous skill-building, and vibrant community networking.
For today’s young professionals, this is an incredible opportunity right at their fingertips, available through digital tools and platforms. I often wish our generation had access to such resources, but being part of this evolving community of learners is equally enriching. After all, learning never truly stops; it only demands curiosity and determination.
Sharad Durge, Manager – Formulation and Technical Services at ADM India, shares his inspiring journey with the Soy Excellence Center (SEC), emphasizing how continuous learning, adaptability, and active community engagement have fueled his professional growth and empowered his team. He proudly showcases his achievements and remains eager to expand his credentials through future SEC programs. Here is what Sharad has to say ….
- How did your SEC journey begin?
It’s all started with a notification received from my organization pointing me to the learning opportunity provided by SEC India in various animal husbandry streams. Learning is something that always excites me. Being Manager Formulation and Technical Services India at ADM it was my motive to keep myself updated and disseminate knowledge earned from SEC to my sales, production and QC team. I took these opportunities with a strong desire to advance my professional knowledge and achieve career goals. I also encouraged my teammates to get registered and start learning.
- What are the factors that motivated you to pursue higher levels of achievement?
Several factors motivated me to pursue my learning journey with SEC India. First, it is the ease offered for learning. Online learning provided flexibility in terms of time one could take these courses during day or night time, as seen convenient. Even the weekly meetings were made flexible considering schedules and availability of many participants; as almost all of them are working professionals. Second, I found that highly specialized professionals are called for delivering lectures, discussions and Q&A sessions which is a rare opportunity. This is just a great feast to our brains. Third, Networking while attending in-person training makes it even more exciting; it was an educative opportunity to hear other opinions, practical experiences and challenges handled at their respective workplaces. Also, the encouragement and support provided by my manager and the organisation cannot be forgotten.
- What approaches have you taken to systematically complete each course and engage in SEC Community activities?
Taking courses or being involved with SEC community was easy as all learning processes are managed and delivered on the SEC Website. I focused one course at a time. To register different courses I just have to login and switch in between communities to attend the different courses. The SEC website manages our progress in each community separately. I must call this as a robust tool which can help us achieve all this in a digital world and thank USSEC/ U.S. Soy/ SEC for designing this Global workforce development program.
- How you manage your time and how did you stay committed to this learning process and community engagement while balancing personal and professional responsibilities?
I dedicated my free time during weekends and during travel for this personal learning. Therefore, I really did not to struggle for separate time management. It did not affect my professional work rather; this advanced learning supported me and improved my analytical acumen.
Like Sharad, I encourage more professionals to utilise this opportunity, scale new heights, and transform themselves into true custodians of the protein value chain.
Such opportunitieshold potential far beyond its initial appearance
Lt. Dr. Shital V. Chopde
Assistant Professor (Animal Nutrition)
Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur
Associate NCC Officer, 1 Mah R & V Sqn NCC, Nagpur
It has been a great pleasure to be a part of the India SEC Feed Mill Course – Cohort #7.
Before joining the course, my main objective was to enhance my understanding of modern feed manufacturing practices, quality assurance, and feed safety standards, so that I could integrate these aspects into both academic teaching and practical training of veterinary students. The course structure, expert lectures, and well-designed modules effectively helped me achieve these goals.
One of the most impressive aspects of the program was its industry-oriented approach, which bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world feed mill operations. The interactive sessions and case-based learning provided deep insights into nutrient optimization, feed formulation, and sustainability aspects of feed production.
Overall, the course has significantly contributed to my professional growth, enhancing my capability to guide students, farmers, and industry personnel with a more practical and scientific outlook. It was a truly enriching experience, and I sincerely thank the SEC India team for their efforts in organizing such a valuable program.