Lucknow — In a landmark moment for technical education and innovation in Uttar Pradesh, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) inaugurated the state’s first Infosys Makers Lab, along with a high-tech AICTE-Idea Lab, and two newly constructed hostels for students. The event was graced by Governor and Chancellor of AKTU, Anandiben Patel, who emphasized the role of youth and technology in shaping India’s future.
Inaugurating these cutting-edge facilities, Smt. Anandiben Patel stated, “A nation’s progress lies in innovation. Students must address real-world challenges—be it in agriculture, healthcare, or sustainable energy—by using tools like Artificial Intelligence and data analytics.” She urged students to contribute meaningfully to the nation, stressing that education should not be solely career-driven but rooted in societal upliftment.
A Major Boost to Innovation Infrastructure
The Infosys Makers Lab, developed on a sprawling 2,400 sq ft space in the university library’s ground floor, houses 25 hi-tech workstations, AI tools, IoT setups, robotics infrastructure, and 3D printing facilities. Additionally, students will have free access to 19,000+ online courses in technical, scientific, and communication fields. The lab is among a select few in the country and will be maintained and operated by Infosys itself.
Simultaneously, the AICTE-Idea Lab within the university’s Centre for Advanced Studies was launched. Open 24/7, this facility features labs in mechanical, electrical, and electronics domains, equipped with high-end machinery and mentoring support for students and innovators to bring their ideas to life.
Hostel Inaugurations
Patel also inaugurated two new hostels—one each for male and female students—with a capacity of 75 rooms each. These hostels are expected to significantly ease accommodation challenges and help students focus more on academics and research.
Innovation in Action: AI Idea Challenge Hackathon
To mark the occasion, AKTU hosted the 24-hour “AI Innovation Challenge 2025 Hackathon” organized by its Innovation Hub. The grand finale featured 38 teams from across affiliated institutions, showcasing prototypes built on AI-driven solutions.
Patel visited the prototype exhibition, reviewed the student projects, and offered valuable suggestions. Jury members and mentors evaluated the innovations and guided students on turning ideas into scalable startups.
Hackathon Winners Announced
-
First Prize (₹51,000): Red Linear Company — An AI-based autonomous robot developed by students Ankit Dwivedi, Om Gupta, Anurag Verma, and Shivanchal Mishra from IET Lucknow.
-
Second Prize (₹41,000): AI Dermatologist — A smart solution to detect skin infections, suggest remedies, and connect with doctors, developed by Sahil Kumar, Shubham Pandey, Shubham Joshi, and Simran.
-
Third Prize (₹31,000): Suryamukhi Automated Solar System — A solar panel maintenance and monitoring system via a mobile app, developed by Ashutosh Singh, Abhinav Dubey, Aryaveer Soni, and Janhvi Pandey.
Leaders Commend Student Innovation
Minister of Technical Education, Ashish Patel, praised the university for leading innovation efforts in Uttar Pradesh, saying, “The Makers Lab will accelerate entrepreneurship and technological advancement. Students must create solutions that are rooted in public need.”
Narendra Bhushan, Additional Chief Secretary, Technical Education, noted that as India moves towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy, innovation and entrepreneurship will be key drivers of growth.
University’s Vision for the Future
AKTU Vice Chancellor Prof. J.P. Pandey welcomed dignitaries and underlined the university’s commitment to aligning with the National Education Policy 2020, fostering research, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Prof. Pandey also presented the symbolic Sindoor Plant to the Governor as a token of respect.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dean Innovation Prof. B.N. Mishra, and emceeing by Associate Dean Dr. Anuj Kumar Sharma. Also in attendance were Vice Chancellor (IET) Prof. Rajeev Kumar, Registrar Reena Singh, Finance Officer Keshav Singh, Director (IET) Prof. Vineet Kansal, Director (CAS) Prof. Virendra Pathak, and FOAP Principal Prof. Vandana Sehgal among others.
This event marked a defining chapter in AKTU’s ongoing transformation into a national hub for future-ready engineers, researchers, and innovators.
