Engineering the future with AI: PSG ITECH bridges Industry and Academia at Conclave 2025

The eighth edition of the Industry–Academia Conclave 2025, themed “Engineering the Future with AI”, was inaugurated at PSG Institute of Technology and Applied Research, Neelambur, Coimbatore, on October 10.
The two-day event brought together scientists, entrepreneurs, and industry experts to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping
engineering education, research, and innovation. In his address, Principal Dr. N. Saravanakumar highlighted how AI enhances human intelligence in solving complex problems and designing better
systems.
He stressed the need for engineers to develop adaptive thinking to work with emerging intelligent technologies.
Chief Guest Dr. Sunny Manchanda, Director, DRDO Young Scientists’ Lab–AI, Bengaluru, inspired students to embrace challenges and failures as opportunities for innovation.
He emphasized mathematical thinking and scientific curiosity, quoting Niels Bohr and Richard Feynman to underline the importance of ethical and purposeful research in AI.
The conclave featured expert lectures, interactive sessions, MoU signings, and a large project exhibition showcasing innovations from nearly 100 student teams across various engineering streams.
It also included faculty–industry interactions and discussions on developing a roadmap for integrating AI into education and industry practices.  The event also marked the announcement of iTech Ideathon 2026, the institution’s annual innovation contest. Dr. Abdul Aleem M. I., Dean, Centre for Industry Interaction and Outreach, delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the efforts of faculty, students, and industry partners.
A panel discussion followed, moderated by Dr. R. Manimegalai, Associate Dean (Industry Interaction and Outreach).
The panel included Dr. Sunny Manchanda (DYSL–AI), Mr. Vivek Suriyamoorthy (Co-Founder and CTO, Everstage), and Mr. Satya Dhulipala (Head, Coimbatore IT Center, SLB Technology).The
panellists shared insights into building AI products, integrating AI in enterprise systems, and developing solutions for industrial and national applications.
They discussed how AI-driven transformation can fuel innovation and open new career pathways for young
engineers.
The interactive Q&A session that followed saw active participation from students and faculty.
The conclave concluded on October 11 with 20 technical sessions led by scientists, industry experts, and entrepreneurs focusing on AI applications and
future prospects in core engineering fields.