Ideas in Action: NextGen Conclave Showcases Student Research and Industry Insight

Bengaluru, 10th April 2026: Innovation and research took centre stage at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) as the Department of Information Science and Engineering (ISE), Faculty of Engineering and Technology hosted the NextGen Innovation & Research Conclave 2026 on 10th April 2026. The event brought together students, faculty, and industry experts, creating a vibrant platform to showcase emerging ideas and foster a culture of research-driven learning.

The conclave began with a formal inauguration, followed by a welcome address from Dr. K. Manivannan, Professor and Head of the Department of ISE, who outlined the department’s commitment to nurturing innovation and academic inquiry. Dr. Deepak Sinha, Deputy Director (Industry Relations and Training), highlighted the growing importance of collaboration between academia and industry, urging students to continuously upgrade their skills in response to evolving technological demands. Offering an industry perspective, Chief Guest Mr. Shanti Ranjan Dash, Senior Practice Director at Coforge, spoke about current trends and emphasised adaptability as a key attribute for aspiring engineers.

At the heart of the conclave were the student-led technical sessions, where participants from second, third, and final years presented their work across a range of domains. While corridor displays allowed junior students to exhibit their projects interactively, final-year participants delivered structured presentations, demonstrating both technical depth and practical relevance. The projects reflected diverse applications, including e-commerce solutions, AI-driven agricultural innovations for soil regeneration, and early-warning systems for precision pest control.

Interactive evaluation sessions added depth to the experience, as faculty members and experts engaged students through probing questions and discussions. This exchange not only strengthened analytical thinking but also helped participants refine their ideas in a constructive academic setting.

The conclave concluded with a valedictory session recognising outstanding research contributions, with top projects receiving awards for innovation and impact. A vote of thanks by Dr. Anitha Josephine acknowledged the collective efforts of organisers, participants, and supporters.

Supported by faculty coordinators and student volunteers, the event underscored the department’s commitment to bridging academic learning with real-world application. By encouraging inquiry, creativity, and collaboration, the conclave played a significant role in preparing students for future research and professional challenges.