Homi Bhabha State University, in collaboration with TeamLease EdTech, recently organised an AI Symposium and Business AI Hackathon for students enrolled in its BSc Business AI programme. The initiative marks an important step towards integrating application-led learning into undergraduate education in Maharashtra.
Designed as part of the state’s first undergraduate Business AI programme, the event focused on a practical approach to learning. Instead of relying only on classroom teaching, students were encouraged to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. The hackathon provided a platform where participants could translate theoretical concepts into working AI-driven solutions.
Students worked in teams across ten thematic tracks, addressing a mix of business and societal problem statements. Using tools and techniques introduced during their coursework, they developed innovative solutions within a structured and time-bound environment. The emphasis remained on usability, problem-solving ability, and clarity of ideas rather than just technical complexity.
The projects were evaluated by a panel of academic and industry experts. Among the key jury members were Aditee Rele and Hrishi Gandhi, who assessed the submissions based on innovation, practicality, and presentation. Their feedback offered students valuable insights into industry expectations and real-world application of AI.
Speaking about the initiative, Shantanu Rooj highlighted a growing shift in how employability is being built in higher education. He noted that traditional academic metrics contribute only a small portion to actual learning outcomes, while hands-on experiences such as projects and problem-solving play a much larger role. According to him, early exposure to such environments helps students build practical skills and become more industry-ready.
Vice Chancellor Rajnish Kamat emphasised that the university is actively aligning its teaching methods with the National Education Policy 2020. He stated that experiential learning and industry integration are essential to improving graduate outcomes. He also pointed out that engaging with real-world problems at an early stage helps students build confidence, teamwork skills, and a stronger understanding of their subject.
Unlike traditional exams, the hackathon focused on hands-on evaluation. Students were judged on how effectively they could apply AI concepts, structure their ideas, and create functional solutions. This approach reflects a broader shift in higher education, where institutions are increasingly adopting experiential models such as hackathons, live projects, and industry collaborations.
Participants not only developed their first AI-based projects but also gained exposure to real-life problem scenarios. Interactions with industry experts and constructive feedback added further value, helping them build portfolios that are crucial for future career opportunities.
As universities continue to evolve, initiatives like this highlight the growing importance of skill-based learning. With technology-driven roles demanding practical expertise, early exposure to applied learning is set to play a key role in shaping the next generation of professionals.
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