Vidya joins thought leaders at seminar on “Beyond Automation” hosted by DTE Kerala

The Directorate of Technical Education (DTE), Kerala, organized an insightful seminar titled “Beyond Automation: The Power of AI-Based Control Systems in Technology”  as part of the Ente Keralam Pavilion at Swaraj Ground, Thrissur on 23 May 2025.

Representing Vidya, Mr Sivadasan E T (Asso Prof, CSE  Dept) participated in the seminar.  

Seminar on ‘Beyond Automation’

The event began with a formal inauguration by Dr. R. Bindu (Hon. Minister for Higher Education) who emphasized the need for embracing artificial intelligence (AI) in the evolution of modern control systems and highlighted the role of academic institutions in driving this transition.

The seminar featured a special address by Mr Radhakrishnan K (Hon MP, Vadakkanchery Constituency ) who reflected on India’s growing potential in AI and technological innovation. The precedential address was delivered by Ms. Seetha Ravindran (Chairperson, Kunnamkulam Municipality) who applauded the DTE’s efforts in creating awareness about future-ready technologies.

The audience was welcomed by Dr. Vipin Kumar K. S. (Professor in Computer Science, GEC Thrissur) who set the context for the session and introduced the key speakers.

The central presentation was delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Indulal S. (Deputy Director, DTE) who elaborated on the seminar’s core theme. His session explored the shift from traditional automation to AI-powered control systems, emphasizing applications in sectors such as manufacturing, transportation, energy, and smart infrastructure. He also shed light on the integration of machine learning, adaptive control, and real-time decision-making technologies, which are revolutionizing the tech landscape.

The discussion was enriched by a panel of esteemed respondents (Dr. Gilesh M.P., Professor, Computer Science Dept, GEC Thrissur), Dr. Lalu P.P., (Professor, Mechanical Engineering Dept, GEC Thrissur) and Prof. K N Ramesh (Professor, METS School of Engineering, Thrissur)

They provided expert insights, raised thought-provoking questions, and emphasized the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to harness AI’s full potential in engineering systems. Several faculty members from engineering colleges and polytechnic institutions across Thrissur also attended, contributing to a vibrant and intellectually stimulating atmosphere.

The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Manilal A. M (Professor, Chemical Engineering Dept, GEC Thrissur) who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, participants, and organizers for making the session a grand success.

This seminar served as a platform for academic and industry stakeholders to come together and deliberate on the transformative power of AI, reinforcing the role of Kerala’s technical education system in shaping a tech-driven future.