Mangalore: The Training & Placement Cell of St. Joseph Engineering College (SJEC), in association with the Department of Computer Science & Engineering and the Department of Intelligent Computing and Business Systems and Sceptix, successfully inaugurated the fourth edition of its flagship hackathon, “Hack to Future 4.0 (HTF 4.0)”, on April 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Kalam Auditorium on the campus. The EG – India partnered as the title sponsor for the event.
The inaugural ceremony set the tone for an intense 36-hour innovation-driven event aimed at fostering creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving among students.The program commenced with an invocation by the college choir, followed by a video presentation reviewing the highlights of HTF 3.0. Faculty convenors then escorted the dignitaries to the dais, and the ceremony formally began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp.
Ashley Pinto, Lead Student Convenor, welcomed the gathering and provided an overview of the evolution and success of the previous editions of Hack to Future. This year’s edition witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 3000 registrations and 700 teams from across the country. After a rigorous selection process, 41 teams were shortlisted for the final round.
Lead Convenor Ankit Shah presented the roadmap of HTF 4.0, outlining the structure and objectives of the 36-hour hackathon. He emphasized the platform’s role in enabling participants to develop cutting-edge technological solutions to real-world challenges.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Anand Fernandes, CEO of EG India, as the Chief Guest. The Guests of Honour included Abhinandan Patil, Director – R&D, EG India, and Dr. Prakhyath Rai, Senior Manager – Data & AI, EG India. The event was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of the Diocese of Mangalore and President of SJEC.
In his address, Chief Guest Anand Fernandes highlighted the importance of innovation and encouraged students to become job creators rather than job seekers. He urged participants to focus on solving real problems, emphasizing that success lies in starting meaningful initiatives rather than striving for perfection. He also appreciated the organizers for hosting a large-scale event that provides students with opportunities to grow.
Abhinandan Patil commended the participants for reaching the final stage among numerous applicants nationwide and stressed the importance of transforming ideas into practical products. He encouraged students to value the journey and the process of innovation.
Dr. Prakhyath Rai spoke about current industry expectations, noting the demand for individuals who are solution providers capable of building impactful solutions. He advised participants to utilize mentor support effectively and focus on becoming real problem solvers.
Other dignitaries present included Dr. Rio D’Souza, Principal of SJEC, Rev. Fr. Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, Director, and Rev. Fr. Kenneth Rayner Crasta, Assistant Director, along with faculty heads and event convenors.
Dr. Rio D’Souza, in his address, spoke about the ideology behind the hackathon and encouraged students to immerse themselves in the experience. He also expressed gratitude to EG India for their continued support in organizing such large-scale initiatives.
The ceremony included the felicitation of the guests as a token of appreciation, along with a felicitation of the Bishop. The official logo of HTF 4.0 was unveiled, and the hackathon was formally declared open.
In his presidential address, Bishop Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha emphasized the importance of anticipating problems and working towards meaningful solutions. He encouraged participants to embrace challenges and make the most of the learning experience.
Hack to Future 4.0 continues SJEC’s tradition of promoting experiential learning and strengthening industry-academia collaboration. With strong support from industry leaders, the hackathon aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, empowering students to develop innovative solutions to contemporary challenges.
The organizers, Diana Monteiro and Dr. Shrisha H. S., expressed confidence that this edition would witness dynamic participation and yield impactful outcomes.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Priyal Saldanha, Lead Student Convenor, while Aroma Peris compered the event.