IIT-B Techfest: Students now shift their interests towards robotics, AI

Mumbai: Students from over 2,000 colleges participated in the Techfest of Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B). They displayed different robotic models based on fields like mechanical engineering and Artificial Intelligence (AI).This year students have focussed more on robotics and AI due to the advancement of these fields at the global level. Large number of students also attended the 14th edition of the Techfest to understand, study and learn new concepts from other students. Many students revealed they want to go abroad and experiment their skills and talent with students of other countries.

Students participating in the robowar competition said robotics is an interesting field of career. Shashank Mehta, a student said, “Robots are soon going to replace humans in many activities. It is thrilling to witness and meet so many students who are creating their own robots with different abilities and skills.” Another student Bernadette Silvia said, “Some of us have created robots who can play sports or even walk and move like humans at a small scale. The level of technology needs to be increased and with some enhanced skills we will be able to create some unique manifestations.”

Teachers said students are more keen towards robotics and AI and trends in the science field are changing. Riyas Venkatesh, a teacher said, “Earlier students were interested in astro physics, aeronautical science or even chemistry but now more students are shifting towards AI, quantum physics and robotics. Students want to create something of their own which they can relate to and experiment with using creative techniques. These changing trends are inevitable as advancement of technology and scope for growth is changing with time.”

Techfest will continue till December 16. Students securing winning positions in different competitions will get a chance to compete with students abroad. In addition, students from different countries are attending this fest to experience and understand the Indian education system.