TechPulse

DITE&C Announces Statewide AI Hackathon to Strengthen Public Service Delivery


Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

The Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C) has announced the launch of a statewide AI Hackathon as part of the Goa AI Mission 2027, marking a significant step towards integrating Artificial Intelligence into governance and public service delivery across the state.


The AI Hackathon aims to encourage the adoption of ethical and responsible Artificial Intelligence solutions to address real-world governance challenges. The initiative focuses on improving efficiency, transparency and citizen-centric service delivery by leveraging emerging technologies within government systems.

Under the programme, government departments, corporations, autonomous bodies and local authorities have been invited to submit problem statements based on their day-to-day operational challenges. These problem statements will identify areas where AI-based interventions can support automated verification processes, early identification of missing or incorrect information, and timely delivery of benefits to eligible citizens.

Following a detailed scrutiny and evaluation of the submitted problem statements, DITE&C will facilitate the development of AI-powered solutions tailored to the specific needs of departments. Selected solutions will be designed to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen service delivery mechanisms.

The Goa AI Hackathon builds on the success of the Goa Open Innovation Challenge 2025, which invited startups and student innovators to address high-impact governance challenges. The initiative received strong participation from across the country, reflecting growing interest in technology-driven public sector innovation.

Through initiatives such as the AI Hackathon, DITE&C continues to advance the vision of a digitally empowered Goa by fostering innovation, encouraging collaboration and integrating emerging technologies to improve public service delivery and governance outcomes.

EduConnect

American AI Expert from Carnegie Mellon Trains Goan Students on Real-World Applications of Artificial Intelligence at Kilowott Workshop


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

College students from technical and non-technical institutions across Goa were recently introduced to the real-world applications of artificial intelligence and its growing influence on modern careers during a workshop conducted by Adam Paulisick, a renowned professor at Carnegie Mellon Universityโ€™s School of Computer Science, USA. The session was hosted at the campus of digital transformation company Kilowott in Porvorim.

Titled Growing at the Speed of Artificial Intelligence, the workshop explored how AI is rapidly transitioning from academic theory to practical, industry-driven use. Paulisick, who also leads the US-based AI firm SkillyAI, explained how artificial intelligence is reshaping workplaces, skill requirements, and decision-making processes across sectors.

Students from institutions including Goa Engineering College, Agnel Institute of Technology and Design, Shree Rayeshwar Institute of Engineering & Information Technology, Goa College of Art, Don Bosco College of Engineering, Padre Conceicao College of Engineering, Dnyanprassarak Mandal’s College and Research Centre, Shree Damodar College of Commerce and Economics, and St. Xavierโ€™s College participated in the session.

Using relatable business examples, Paulisick compared AI systems to kitchen ingredients that need to be combined thoughtfully to create meaningful outcomes. He explained that the gap between data and impact is bridged through different approaches to AI, ranging from augmented and assistive AI to AI-first systems and hybrid models that emphasise collaboration between humans and machines.

Speaking about Indiaโ€™s technology landscape, he highlighted how AI can significantly accelerate learning and innovation when used actively. He noted that while becoming a senior technologist traditionally takes decades, AI now allows individuals to access advanced knowledge and insights much faster, helping them experiment and grow at an unprecedented pace.

Students described the workshop as eye-opening and practical. Several participants said it helped demystify commonly used terms like data and AI by placing them in real business and professional contexts, while also underscoring the importance of responsible data usage.

Faculty members who attended the session said it provided valuable clarity on selecting appropriate AI tools for different applications and would help them guide students more effectively. The workshop was part of Kilowottโ€™s broader effort to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry exposure in emerging technology domains that are redefining career pathways.

The initiative also aligns with the recently signed memorandum of understanding between Goa College of Art and St. Xavierโ€™s College, aimed at strengthening industryโ€“academia collaboration and supporting the development of local talent in Goaโ€™s evolving digital ecosystem.

TechPulse

GITDC Launches Hands-On 3D Printing Training for Skill Development


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

To promote hands-on learning and capacity building in emerging technologies, the Goa Information Technology Development Corporation (GITDC), in association with the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), has begun trial training sessions in 3D printing technology. The first session was held on November 21, 2025, at the Additive Manufacturing Hub in Altinho, marking an important step towards strengthening technical competencies within the government workforce.

The inaugural session was attended by Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C, Dr Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director of DITE&C, and Shri Subrai Nadkarni, Chief Engineer, GITDC. The training was conducted by Shri Ryan Vaz of Infinyt3D Pvt. Ltd and saw the participation of around twelve GITDC officials. Participants were introduced to the fundamentals of 3D technology through hands-on training in 3D modelling and design, including the use of 3D pens and basic design tools. The session combined presentations with practical demonstrations to help participants understand both theoretical concepts and real-world applications.

Upon completion of the programme, all participants received an Elementary 3D Printing certificate, recognising their foundational training in the technology. Speaking on the initiative, Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar said the programme is a crucial step in preparing government officials for future technological demands. He noted that exposure to advanced tools like 3D printing can help departments explore innovative applications and improve public service delivery.

The skilling initiative is being implemented under the leadership of Shri Rohan Khaunte, Honโ€™ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics and Communications. It is designed as a structured three-module training programme comprising beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, covering the full spectrum of 3D printing applications from basic design to advanced prototyping. As part of this effort, a dedicated 3D Printing Bureau is also being established to support design and printing requirements for various government departments.

The next phase of training sessions will be organised for government officials through the Department of ITE&C, subject to participant availability, as GITDC continues its focus on building technical capacity and fostering innovation within the public sector.

EduConnect

Goa Launches Campus Innovation Scheme to Boost Student-Led Research and Entrepreneurship


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa has taken a significant step toward strengthening its innovation landscape with the launch of the Campus Innovation Scheme under the Goa Startup Policy 2025. Introduced by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C) under the leadership of Minister Rohan Khaunte, the initiative seeks to nurture early-stage ideas developed within educational institutions and encourage students to explore emerging technologies through hands-on research and prototyping.

The scheme offers financial assistance of up to โ‚น50,000 per application, covering actual project expenses, and is open exclusively to bonafide students enrolled in UGC-recognised institutions in Goa. By limiting support to 10 beneficiaries each financial year, the program ensures focused funding and close monitoring of selected projects. Colleges are required to set up dedicated selection committees that carefully evaluate proposals based on sustainability, innovation potential, technical depth, and relevance to evolving technological domains.

Students must submit their project proposals through their respective institutions, after which recommendations from the college committees are forwarded to the Startup and IT Promotion Cell (SITPC) for further evaluation. Approved applicants receive reimbursement after the expenditure is made, encouraging accountability and proper utilisation of funds. To maintain progress transparency, institutions must also submit quarterly reports to SITPC in the prescribed format.

In November, DITE&C hosted a meeting with Training and Placement Officers from various colleges to familiarise them with the scheme and encourage active participation. This interaction was aimed at fostering stronger collaboration between government bodies and educational institutions in nurturing a new generation of innovators.

The Campus Innovation Scheme serves as a launchpad for students aspiring to transform their ideas into tangible prototypes and impactful solutions. By equipping them with the resources and support they need at an early stage, Goa is cultivating a culture of innovation within campuses and preparing young minds for the next steps in their entrepreneurial journey.

EduConnect

Don Bosco College Panjim Hosts โ€œCareer in Drone Technologyโ€ Session for BCA Students


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

Panaji, 8th September 2025:

The Department of Computer Applications at Don Bosco College Panjim conducted an informative session titled โ€œCareer in Drone Technologyโ€ for BCA students, organized in collaboration with Tech Savvy Hub, the Training Internship & Placement Committee, and JCI Panjim.

The session was designed to introduce students to the rapidly evolving world of drones and their applications across industries such as agriculture, logistics, disaster management, and more.

Guest speaker Mr. Sudesh Salgaonkar addressed the students, highlighting the growth of the IT sector during the COVID-19 pandemic and identifying emerging opportunities in software development, digital media, and drone technology. He elaborated on career options for students, including drone pilots, technicians, and data analysts, and explained the process of obtaining a Remote Pilot Certification from the DGCA, which is essential for professional drone operations in India.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks by course coordinator Assistant Professor Rohan R Kerkar, who appreciated the efforts of the guest speaker and collaborating partners for providing the students with valuable insights into this futuristic technology.

The session successfully provided students with knowledge and guidance to pursue careers in drone technology, empowering them to explore innovative and technologically advanced career paths in India and globally.