IUST organized Hackathon to boost innovation and placement prospects

AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) hosted a Hackathon at its campus, organized by the Centre for Career Counselling and Placements (3CP@IUST), a key vertical of the Dean Outreach Office. The program is organized in collaboration with Andino Labs, a Bengaluru-based technology company designed exclusively for B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering students at IUST. 

Four groups of IUST students are participating in this intensive 26-hour Hackathon where they are working in teams to tackle real-world problem statements provided by the industry partner. The initiative aimed to encourage innovation, teamwork, and practical problem-solving abilities among the participants. The best performers of the hackathon will be offered placement opportunities. Several mentors and panellists are guiding and supporting the students throughout the 26-hour program, helping them refine their ideas, enhance their problem-solving approaches, and align their solutions with real-world industry expectations. 

Encouraging the participants, Prof. A. H. Moon, Dean Academic Affairs, IUST  said that such competitions give our students the opportunity to apply what they learn in classrooms to real-world problems, which not only strengthens their conceptual understanding but also enhances their employability. Ms. Jexa Gohil, Consultant Andino Labs, who coordinated the event, said that organizing the Hackathon was a valuable experience that combined innovation, teamwork, and practical learning. She noted that the participating students displayed impressive problem-solving abilities and emphasized that such platforms play a crucial role in preparing them for real industry challenges and future placement opportunities. 

Speaking about the importance of such initiatives, the Dean Outreach, Dr. Ruheela Hassan, highlighted how university outreach through platforms like 3CP not only nurtures student potential but also strengthens university-industry linkages that are critical for future-readiness. Placement Officer Mr. Basharat Masoodi emphasized the growing role of Hackathons as a pathway to internships and job opportunities and said that these platforms help students apply theoretical knowledge to real-time challenges, improving both their technical and soft skills. While Dr. Zahoor A. Ganie, Head of the Centre for Career Counselling and Placements, underlined the department’s focus on experiential learning and industry alignment. He said that the event marks another step in IUST’s ongoing commitment to holistic student development through collaboration, innovation, and meaningful engagement with industry.