Cognizance, annual technical fest of Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, held from March 21 to 23, 2014 gave science and tech enthusiasts a chance to look at some of the next generation innovations happening around the world. “Imagineering Change” – The theme of the 12th edition of Cognizance, exhibited celebration of science technology and management, fueled by some of the basic elements essential to scientific and technical inquiry: curiosity, wonder, and discovery which involved over 20,000 participants from all over the world in over 180 on campus and online events in a span of three power packed days. The festival highlighted the educational, cultural and financial impact of science and technology in our country and featured interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities and dynamic speakers to engage students and faculty in science and engineering. Embodied by the spirit of innovation; each event was exclusively molded to captivate people of all ages in science and showed off the ways technology can be fun.
Over 12 eminent speakers from India and abroad, spoke about evolutionary innovations and step-wise improvements. Alberto Levy, technology advisor , high level executive strategist and creative soul, spoke about his stint in the industry and shared his experiences with the students. Ravi Sandhu, number one non-cryptographer and number 5 overall at Microsoft Academic Search for Security and Privacy, threw some light on the methods for protecting the privacy, integrity and functionality of computer and communication systems. RK Khandal, a member of the Royal Society of Chemistry, London, informed students on how to use their skills of converting ideas into reality and of debottle-necking as well as improving the manufacturing processes to produce value-added products with green chemistry by adopting novel and innovative approaches. Career talks by institutes like Wipro, SAP Universities cultivated a positive environment that encouraged children to pursue science-related careers and encourages businesses to invest in India. Dr. Tabassum Jamal- Principal Scientist at CSIR and R.K. Khandal – A fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, London and a unanimously elected President for the periods: 2010 to 2012 and 2012 to 2014 of WAITRO (World Association of Industrial & Technological Organizations encouraged students to get out and really experience the wonder and thrill of seeing science up-close and in action. On one end, Dr Pawan Agarwal (Owner, Mumbai Dabbawala Education Centre) enthralled the audience with insights in to working of Mumbai Dabawallas and on the other side William Baker ( leading architect) session offered understandings classical architecture. Both these seminars took the students to another level of brain power.
Speaking on the occasion, Abhilash Jajoo, Convener, Cognizance, 2014 said, ‘We are overwhelmed with the response received in these three days. Addressing the needs of an increasingly important sector whilst at the same time understanding and adapting to latest technologies was the main aim of this event; there was a relevant increase in strength in participation as compared to the last three years. The fest assured various cast of events in Technology, , Design, Management, Sciences and core engineering fields in parallel with cultural extravaganza that captivated the mind of one and all.’
Speaking on the occasion Pradipta Banerji, Director, IIT Roorkee said, “The event aimed to bring conglomeration of scientists, academicians and industrialists in technical sessions, tutorials, exhibition and panel discussions. This year’s Cognizance provided a glimpse of the future in Technology thereby reducing the gap between researchers and engineers. Students also get an opportunity to acquire new ideas, develop one’s skills, create new networks and interact with world’s great minds.”
“The organizing team has raised the bar for generations to come. We hope next year’s event will be bigger” added Prof. Banerji.
The most popular attraction included a list of events like ‘Armageddon’(the ultimate battleground of the robots), ‘Power Drift’(the opportunity to test your machine), ‘Aeronave’(a chance for engineers and aero designers to put their skills and technicality to the test), ‘Cyborg Break-in’ (exercise your robotic niche to successfully execute this extremely dashing, daunting and surreal) and varied workshops. Cognizance turned out to be a fertile grounds where progressive projects and programmes to do with science and technology were discussed in ‘Green Walk’, ‘Elevator Pitch’, ‘Aurora’ and ‘IITR MUN’. ‘Sciennovate’ gave an insight into what is coming toward us, not just from a technology perspective but also talent while ‘Silence Calling’ focused on game development catering to the needs of the specially privileged section of the society. ‘Finesse’ got student to discuss on how to develop a business strategy for nurturing rural-centric occupations and provide people with rural background the benefits equivalent to those received by other vocations. The event ‘Rural Congress’ proved to be a very fruitful platform where students discussed the serious issues faced by farmers and proposed various innovative solutions for the same.
Techtainment events wowed audiences with performance by Sunburn, speed painting by Vilas Nayak – India’s Got Talent Season 3 winner , shadow act, 3D projection mapping and Hula B Boys- -winners of the famous reality show “Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega”.
Career talks by institutes like Wipro, SAP Universities cultivated a positive environment that encouraged children to pursue science-related careers and encourages businesses to invest in India. Over 12 eminent speakers from India and abroad, spoke about evolutionary innovations and step-wise improvements. Dr. Tabassum Jamal- Principal Scientist at CSIR and R.K. Khandal – A fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, London and a unanimously elected President for the periods: 2010 to 2012 and 2012 to 2014 of WAITRO (World Association of Industrial & Technological Organizations encouraged students to get out and really experience the wonder and thrill of seeing science up-close and in action. On one end, Dr Pawan Agarwal (Owner, Mumbai Dabbawala Education Centre) enthralled the audience with insights in to working of Mumbai Dabawallas and on the other side William Baker ( leading architect) session offered understandings classical architecture. Both these seminars took the students to another level of brain power.
Besides this, Anushruti, a humble social initiative of its own kind, (comprising of 109 differently-abled children) growing under the aegis of IIT Roorkee had invited Boston based Wendy Jehlen – a Contemporary dancer/choreographer where in where she engaged with the students teaching them various styles of movements without music. Her unique approach to movement incorporates elements of a wide range of dance and movement styles.
While crowds gravitated to the outdoor activities around the campus, exhibitions on 3D printing and Gridbots (design, construction, operation, and application of robots, as well as computer systems for their control, sensory feedback, and information processing) was a hands-on utopia for curious minds. The robots Garun and Hansa left science and tech enthusiasts jaw dropped.
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