Jaipur: With a focus on using technology to solve real-world problems, the three-day JU TechFest 2026 kicked off at JECRC University under the theme “Build, Create, Innovate.” The fourth edition of the festival has attracted more than 3,000 students from across India, with over 30 percent of participants coming from other states.
The festival features more than 25 competitions across hardware, software, e-sports and emerging technologies, offering prizes worth up to Rs 8 lakh.
From 500 Registrations to Over 3,000 Participants
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Dhimant Agarwal, Director of Digital Strategies and Student Affairs, welcomed guests, participants, faculty members and volunteers.
He highlighted the remarkable growth of the festival, which began with approximately 500 registrations and a handful of competitions and has now expanded to more than 25 activities involving thousands of students.
“TechFest is not just a platform for competitions but a laboratory where students move beyond classroom learning to understand real-world challenges and develop practical solutions,” Agarwal said.
He added that this year's hackathon focuses on everyday challenges such as online fraud, traffic management and simplifying medical reports.
“Our aim is to transform students' innovative ideas into practical solutions that can benefit society and industry,” he said.
Agarwal also appreciated the contributions of the Student Council, volunteers and the organising team.
Hackathon Focuses on Seven Key Technology Areas
One of the major attractions of JU TechFest 2026 is the hackathon, where participants are developing working prototypes within a limited time.
The competition features seven major tracks: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Smart Cities and IoT, Cybersecurity and Digital Trust, HealthTech and Accessibility, FinTech and Digital Commerce, Sustainability and ClimateTech, and EdTech and Future of Work.
Three challenges particularly focus on solving problems faced by ordinary citizens.
AI-Based Tool to Prevent Online Fraud
Under the challenge “Stop the Scam Before the Click,” students are developing a tool to identify potential threats hidden in suspicious links, emails, messages and QR codes.
The proposed system will analyse fraudulent website names, misleading messages and pressure tactics commonly used by cybercriminals. It will alert users to possible risks and suggest safer actions, helping raise awareness about digital fraud.
Smart Traffic System to Reduce Congestion
Another challenge, “Traffic That Thinks,” focuses on developing an intelligent traffic management system.
The proposed solution will analyse vehicle density, queue lengths, weather conditions and emergency vehicle movement to recommend adjustments to traffic signal timings and alternative routes.
The system will also estimate potential reductions in waiting time. For safety reasons, testing will be conducted through computer simulations rather than on actual traffic signals.
AI to Simplify Medical Reports
Students are also working on an AI Medical Report Simplification System designed to help people understand complex medical terminology and test results.
The system will explain key findings in simple language, highlight values outside normal reference ranges and suggest relevant questions patients may ask their doctors.
Importantly, the system will preserve original medical values and measurement units. It will neither diagnose diseases independently nor replace professional medical advice.
Industry Experts Encourage Innovation and Practical Learning
Several industry experts interacted with students during the festival, sharing insights into technical skills, teamwork and continuous learning.
Software engineer, content creator and student mentor Paras Atal shared his journey of learning Python and 3D game development through online resources and WhatsApp groups despite having limited coding knowledge during his early college years.
He encouraged students to believe in themselves, focus on improving their abilities rather than comparing themselves with others, and make the most of available opportunities.
Rajesh Goyal, Dean of the School of Engineering, said TechFest provides students with opportunities to learn, collaborate and build professional networks.
He noted that fellow competitors today could become friends, colleagues or business partners in the future. He also encouraged participants from other states to explore Jaipur's rich historical and cultural heritage.
Manthan Jethwani, Founder and CEO of Phase AI, urged students to embrace artificial intelligence responsibly rather than fear its growing influence.
He said competitions such as TechFest could help transform innovative ideas into successful startups. He also advised students to learn from failures and take college projects seriously, as practical technical skills play an important role in securing internships and employment opportunities.
A Celebration of Technology, Creativity and Teamwork
The three-day JU TechFest 2026 brings together technology, creativity and teamwork through hackathons, Robo Wars, e-sports and several other technical competitions.
The festival aims to encourage young innovators to experiment with new ideas, develop solutions to real-world challenges and explore future opportunities in the rapidly evolving technology sector.