A three-day “Ideation Bootcamp 2026” aimed at nurturing innovation, entrepreneurship, and future-ready skills among students was inaugurated at the postgraduate auditorium of St Philomena College. The programme has been jointly organised by the college’s Innovation Hub – Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) in collaboration with the New Age Incubation Network.

The inaugural ceremony was presided over by the Principal of the College, Rev. Dr Anthony Prakash Montero. In his presidential address, he urged students not to restrict themselves to merely learning technology, but to focus on creating innovations that contribute meaningfully to society.

Emphasising the role of socially responsible innovation, he encouraged students to develop positive technological solutions capable of addressing real-world challenges. Referring to the bootcamp’s motto, “Think Big. Innovate Bold. Build the Future,” he stated that the vision perfectly aligns with the institution’s commitment towards promoting innovation, skill development, and entrepreneurship among students. He further observed that such initiatives play a crucial role in cultivating creative thinking, leadership qualities, and a future-oriented mindset.

The chief guest and keynote resource person for the programme was Urooj Akhtar Khan, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Medora and Co-founder of Humanoid AI. Addressing the gathering, he delivered an inspiring session on emerging opportunities in the fields of artificial intelligence, robotics, digital healthcare, and startups.

Highlighting the importance of innovation-driven entrepreneurship, he motivated students to transform ideas into action, identify societal problems, and develop technology-based solutions with confidence and determination.

The three-day bootcamp will feature idea pitching sessions, mentoring programmes, startup guidance, innovation workshops, and several interactive activities designed to enhance entrepreneurial and creative abilities among participants.

 Around 100 students from BCA, BCA (AI & ML), BCA Data Analytics, and BSc Data Science streams are participating in the programme.

The event began with a welcome address by Abhishek Suvarna, DIA of the college’s Innovation and Incubation Centre. Project Coordinator Dr Vinayachandra briefed students about the various activities planned during the three-day camp.

Assistant Professor of the Postgraduate Department of Computer Applications, Shodhan P G, proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was compered by Dr Geetha Poornima K, MIS Coordinator of the Incubation Centre.

Assistant Professors Akshatha B and Neelam Kuttappa extended support in organising the event.

INVITATION