The AI Catalyst event, organized in collaboration with the Centre for Artificial Intelligence, was held on January 6th, 2025, at 9:45 AM onwards in the Seminar Hall, Block 2, Christ University. The event brought together 200 students from various departments, aiming to provide a platform for exploring the role of Artificial Intelligence in modern businesses, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary learning.

 

The event commenced with an address by Fr. Jossy P. George, Director, Centre of AI, Christ University who emphasized the importance of AI in reshaping industries and solving real-world problems. Dr. Biju Toms, Director, School of Commerce, Finance and Accountancy highlighted the increasing relevance of AI in commerce and finance, while Prof. Soumya V, Head, Department of Professional Studies inspired participants to embrace interdisciplinary learning.

 

The session featured esteemed speakers, including Mr. Ronobijay Bhaumik, Director of AI Transformation at Accenture, who led an engaging panel discussion moderated by Mr. Sirish Venkatagiri, Professor at the School of Business & Management, Christ University. The panel focused on the impact of AI on both traditional businesses and startups. They provided actionable strategies for leveraging AI in entrepreneurial and corporate contexts.

 

Additionally, Mr. BV Jagadeesh, Founding Partner of SVQ & KAAJ Ventures, Silicon Valley, conducted an insightful Ask-Me-Anything (AMA) session, offering valuable perspectives on the transformative potential of AI. A highlight of the event when Mr. Jagadeesh stated, “The power of AI lies not in replacing human intelligence but in amplifying human ability to innovate and solve problems globally.” This resonated with the audience, inspiring them to critically evaluate and innovate AI applications.

 

The AI Catalyst successfully achieved its objectives by fostering professional networking, enhancing critical thinking, and encouraging innovative applications of AI to solve societal challenges. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Tulasi B, Faculty Member, Centre of AI, acknowledging the contributions of the speakers, participants, and EDEC in organizing such an event.