AIML and CSE Dept jointly conduct TECHTIDE ’25 – Hackathon

With the objective of nurturing creativity, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities among school students through exposure to practical applications of Artificial Intelligence, TECHTIDE ’25, a hackathon themed “AI for Real World Impact”, was organized by the Department of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (AIML) and the Department of Computer Science & Engineering (CSE), in association with the ISTE Chapter and IE(I) Chapter of Vidya Academy of Science & Technology, Thrissur. The event was held on 05 December 2025.The initiative highlighted the institution’s commitment to promoting technology awareness among young learners and fostering interest in emerging domains such as AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science.The program was co-ordinated by Dr. Shammem S  (Asso Prof, CSE Dept), Ms. Ramya Raj (Asst Prof, CSE Dept) and Ms. Manjusha P. D. (Asst Prof, AIML Dept).

The hackathon witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 40 school students representing various institutions in the region. Participants were grouped into teams and tasked with designing AI-based solutions within a limited timeframe, encouraging collaboration, creativity, and logical thinking. Many participants experienced a hackathon environment for the first time, making the event both exciting and impactful.

Dr. Jeeva K. A. (HoD,  AIML  Dept) delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the importance of early exposure to Artificial Intelligence and encouraging students to view technology as a tool for solving meaningful real-world problems. The event was formally inaugurated by Dr. Sunitha C.(Principal) who delivered an inspiring address highlighting the growing influence of AI in shaping the future and motivating students to make the most of learning opportunities such as TECHTIDE ’25. The session was further enriched by a felicitation address from Dr. Sajay K. R. (HoD,  CSE Dept) who appreciated the active participation of schools and expressed confidence in the innovative potential of young minds.

The organizing committee briefed the participants on the hackathon structure, including problem themes, judging criteria, expected deliverables, time constraints, and presentation guidelines. This ensured clarity and preparedness among all teams before the commencement of the hackathon phase.

The hackathon phase was conducted from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, during which participants actively brainstormed ideas, developed solutions, prepared demonstrations, and worked collaboratively within their teams. Faculty mentors from the AIML and CSE departments provided continuous guidance and technical support. Despite their young age, the participants demonstrated remarkable creativity, quick learning ability, and enthusiasm toward problem-solving and technology.

Project evaluation was carried out between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM by a panel of faculty experts. The projects were assessed based on innovation, practical applicability, clarity of explanation, teamwork, and conceptual understanding. The evaluation process included presentations and interactive discussions, allowing students to clearly articulate their ideas and justify their proposed solutions. Refreshments were provided to all participants during this period.

The valedictory function and prize distribution ceremony commenced at 2:30 PM. Dr. Sunitha C.(Principal) distributed certificates and cash prizes to the winners, acknowledging the effort, creativity, and dedication of all participants. The First Prize was awarded to the team from Nirmala Matha Convent School, Eyyal, comprising Mohammed Adhil and Mohammed Farhan. The Second Prize was secured by the team from Bharatheeya Vidya Vihar, Mazhuvanchery, consisting of Shankar Narayanan P. N., Krishang T. P.and Vijwal M. V. The Third Prize was awarded to Ujwal P. Kiran and Mohammed Muhsin P. M. from Nirmala Matha Convent School, Eyyal.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Remya Raj (Asst Prof, CSE Dept), who expressed sincere gratitude to the management, organizing departments, faculty members, professional chapters, participating schools, volunteers, and students for their collective support and cooperation in making the event a success.

In conclusion, TECHTIDE ’25 emerged as a highly successful initiative marked by active participation, innovative ideas, and effective coordination. The event not only introduced school students to fundamental AI concepts but also emphasized the importance of teamwork, creativity, and real-world problem-solving. The collaborative efforts of the AIML and CSE departments, along with ISTE and IE(I), significantly enhanced the academic and professional quality of the event, reinforcing Vidya Academy of Science & Technology’s mission to inspire young learners and promote technological education at the school level.