SRM University–AP inaugurated SWEEYAM 2026, a flagship three-day Developer Conference, Hackathon, and AI Workshop, being held from January 23 to 25, 2026, in association with the Directorate of Alumni Relations. Organised by the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, the event brings together students, developers, researchers, and industry professionals on a single platform focused on innovation, learning, and real-world problem solving.

SWEEYAM 2026 is designed as an integrated innovation ecosystem that combines an industry-led developer conference, an extended 48+ hour hackathon, and a dedicated artificial intelligence workshop. The event aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry practice through hands-on development, mentorship, and exposure to emerging technologies.

Addressing the gathering, Dr M Mahesh Kumar, Convener of SWEEYAM 2026, stated, “SWEEYAM is not just another technical event. It is a carefully designed ecosystem where participants learn from industry experts, immediately apply that knowledge, and build meaningful solutions inspired by real-world challenges.”

The hackathon problem statements were curated in collaboration with SRM University–AP alumni working in the technology industry, who arSRM University–AP Hosts SWEEYAM 2026: Developer Conference, Hackathon & AI Workshope also actively involved as mentors and judges. This strong collaboration between academia, industry, and alumni ensures industry relevance and holistic learning for participants.

Welcoming the participants, Prof. C V Tomy, Dean – School of Engineering and Sciences, highlighted the importance of such initiatives, saying, “Platforms like SWEEYAM take education beyond classrooms and expose students to real-world engineering environments. Students should use this opportunity not just to compete, but to refine ideas that can be taken forward as impactful solutions or startups.”

The event features keynote sessions and technical talks by industry professionals. A key highlight of SWEEYAM 2026 is the keynote address by Dr Chand Gudi, CEO of Vyobotics, titled “Building from Zero – A Journey of Research, Startups & Global Impact.” Sharing his entrepreneurial journey, Dr Gudi encouraged students to begin early with research and innovation. “I was once a student like you. What matters is how early you start building, experimenting, and seeking support. Research and startups can create global impact when approached with the right mindset,” he remarked.

Speaking on the academic significance of the event, Dr Murali Krishna Enduri, Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, noted that SWEEYAM reflects the department’s vision of experiential learning. “This event transforms academic preparation into real-world execution, helping students develop confidence, technical competence, and problem-solving skills required for evolving technology landscapes,” he said.

Dr Jatindra Kumar Dash, Associate Dean – SEAS, emphasised the need for critical thinking beyond grades, stating, “Success today depends on how students approach real-life problems. Events like SWEEYAM encourage analytical thinking, collaboration, and innovation beyond the classroom.”

SWEEYAM 2026 has received an enthusiastic response, with participation from students across SRM University–AP and several reputed institutions from across the region, highlighting the event’s growing inter-institutional reach and reputation.

The three-day event includes industry presentations, continuous hackathon development, hands-on AI sessions, networking opportunities, and a multi-category prize and certification programme. SWEEYAM 2026 underscores SRM University–AP’s commitment to experiential, industry-aligned, and innovation-driven education, preparing students to become future-ready technology leaders.