Ahmedabad, Dec 10 (LatestNewsX) – The grand closing ceremony of the Smart India Hackathon 2025 – Software Edition, a flagship event launched by the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell (MIC) together with AICTE, took place at Shivanand Ashram in Ahmedabad. The event was attended by Minister of State for Education, Rivaba R. Jadeja, who came to welcome the gathering.
Gujarat Technological University (GTU), in partnership with ISRO’s Space Applications Centre (SAC‑ISRO), successfully staged the national finale for the eighth straight year, once again demonstrating its dedication to fostering innovation, technology and nation‑building.
The Smart India Hackathon is recognised worldwide as the largest open‑innovation platform, designed to enhance students’ practical learning, problem‑solving skills, design thinking, and the use of modern technologies across India.
The ceremony opened with a heartfelt welcome from Dr K. N. Kher, Registrar of GTU, who noted the university’s milestone of hosting the SIH finale consecutively for eight years.
Honorees were then congratulated for their contributions to education and innovation. In an inspiring speech, Dr Nilesh M. Desai, Director of SAC‑ISRO, highlighted India’s rapid progress in quantum computing, satellite technology and other emerging deep‑tech sectors. He encouraged students to pursue research and industry‑relevant skills, underscoring the vital role institutions like GTU play in shaping the country’s technological future.
Padma Shri Dr Ganpatbhai Patel, President and Patron‑in‑Chief of Ganpat University, stressed the strong links between business, technology and nation‑building. He praised the participants for their innovative mindset and forward‑looking approach.
In her keynote address, GTU Vice Chancellor Dr Rajul K. Gajjar outlined the university’s NEP 2020‑aligned initiatives aimed at bolstering the startup ecosystem, fostering interdisciplinary innovation and inspiring students to think beyond traditional academic boundaries.
Chief guest Minister Rivaba R. Jadeja delivered a motivating talk, highlighting women’s entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, and the scientific legacy of Dr Vikram Sarabhai. “India’s future does not lie in government buildings but in our laboratories, research centres, and the innovative minds of our youth,” she remarked. She also called for stronger skill‑based learning, research orientation, technology adoption and a thriving startup culture within education.
The event concluded when Chandraprakash, Project Director of SAC‑ISRO, announced the winners from the SIH 2025 GTU Nodal Centre.
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