CognitiveX – GenAI Hackathon 2025 | GVPCE | IBM | SmartBridge | CSI

Summary of CognitiveX – GenAI Hackathon 2025 | GVPCE | IBM | SmartBridge | CSI

Event Overview:

• The CognitiveX GenAI Hackathon was a two-day event (August 1-2) organized at Gaitri Vidyapashad College of Engineering (GVPCE) in collaboration with IBM and SmartBridge.
• The hackathon focused on generative AI (GenAI) platforms and tools, aiming to provide hands-on experience to students from various affiliated colleges.
• The event included a preceding online workshop (July 28-31) to train participants on GenAI technologies and tools.
• 1100 initial registrations were filtered down to 600 students, then grouped into 200 teams, each working on innovative projects using GenAI tools.

Technological Concepts and Features:

• Participants used generative AI tools and plugins taught during the boot camp to develop project prototypes.
• Projects were based on problem statements provided by SmartBridge and ideas floated by students themselves.
• Domains included financial analysis, AI-based medical analysis, and other innovative applications of GenAI.
• The hackathon emphasized innovation, problem understanding, team collaboration, and prototype development.

Program Structure and Evaluation:

• Day 1: Teams worked on problem statements with mentor support, focusing on prototype development.
• Day 2: Teams refined prototypes and underwent a two-stage evaluation process.
  • First evaluation selected the top 10 teams.
  • Second evaluation, involving presentations to IBM representatives, selected the top 3 winners.
• The event also included registration for IBM and NASSCOM-related courses to enhance learning.

Key Highlights from Participants:

• Students found the hackathon challenging but rewarding, especially as beginners learning to integrate multiple applications.
• Mentors from SmartBridge provided significant support, helping students overcome technical difficulties.

Winners:

• Second Runner-Up: Team 72 – Developed a steady-made application.
• First Runner-Up: Team X – Created a financial analysis prototype.
• Winner: Team Zero – Developed an AI personalized medical analyzer prototype.

Organizational and Support Acknowledgments:

• The hackathon was supported by the departments of Computer Science and Computer Applications at GVPCE.
• Key organizers included Dr. Anur Rada (Head of Data Science), Dr. Davi (Head of CSC ML Department), and Mr. Akshai Kumar (Program Manager, SmartBridge).
• The CSI student branch core team played a crucial role in organizing, managing volunteers, and ensuring smooth execution.
• Gratitude was expressed to IBM and SmartBridge teams for their mentorship and logistical support.
• Faculty members such as Dr. Anurada, Tulysi, and Maduri were recognized for their continuous encouragement and motivation.

Main Speakers/Sources:

• Dr. Anur Rada – Head of Data Science, Professor, CSC Department
• Mr. Akshai Kumar – Program Manager, SmartBridge (Academic Relations)
• Dr. Davi – Head of CSC ML Department
• Sai Anjeli Narina – Treasurer, CSI Student Group
• CSI Student Branch Core Team and Volunteers
• Faculty Mentors: Dr. Anurada, Tulysi, Maduri, Dr. Guravar Maduri