The STEKOM University delegation conducted an International academic visit to Arunai College of Engineering, in order to participate in CODEFEST 2 – Hackathon 2026 organized by the Department of Computer Science. The main activities took place on February 5–6, 2026, involving participants from India, Malaysia, and Indonesia. This visit aimed to strengthen International collaboration networks and enhance students’ competencies in information technology, digital innovation, and artificial intelligence–based solution development.
The STEKOM delegation was present in India and led by the Rector, Mr. Joseph Teguh Santoso M.Sc. accompanied by three selected students representing different study programs. The three students were Zalfa Gita Salsabila (Semester 5, Bachelor of Management), Andika Dwi Saputra (Semester 3, Bachelor of Informatics Engineering), and Azka Nahya Amanta (Semester 8, Bachelor of Computer Systems). They not only participated in the hackathon competition but were also actively involved in a series of academic activities and international interactions throughout the visit.
The event began at 09:30 local time and was attended by academic leaders, namely:
1. Joseph Teguh Santoso, M.Kom, Rector of STEKOM University.
2. C. Elanchezhian, M.E., Ph.D, Rector of Arunai College of Engineering.
3. Prof. S. Noorul Hassan, Assistant Professor and Head of the Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Program (HOD).
4. Pugalenthy Dorrakkannu, Head of International Relations, Masha University.
5. E. V. Kumaran, Vice-Chairman.
6. R. Sathiyaseelan, Registrar (Head of Academic Administration).
7. G. Shoba, Assistant Professor and Head of the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI & ML) Program.
The leaders opened the event through a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony as a symbol of hope and prayers for the smooth implementation of the program. The session was led by E. V. Kumaran, Vice-Chairman, accompanied by R. Sathiyaseelan, Registrar. C. Elanchezhian, M.E., Ph.D, Rector of Arunai College of Engineering, delivered the closing remarks and appreciation to all parties involved in organizing the event. Earlier, Head of Department S. Noorul Hassan welcomed the distinguished guests.
On this occasion, the committee also introduced a student project titled “Aura” developed by students of the Artificial Intelligence and Data Science program. The project is an Arduino Nano–based humanoid robot designed as a learning assistant, an interactive presentation medium, and an automation support system within the academic environment. In his remarks, the Rector of Arunai College of Engineering emphasized that hackathons serve as a strategic platform to foster young generations’ awareness of technological advancement and innovation.
The College President, A. V. Kumaran, emphasized the importance of International collaboration in higher education as well as cross-country student engagement as a manifestation of academic openness and the strengthening of global networks. Meanwhile, the Rector of STEKOM University, Joseph Teguh Santoso, expressed appreciation for the invitation and warm welcome extended by the host institution. He stated that this participation marked STEKOM’s second involvement in a hackathon in India and represented an important momentum for expanding international cooperation.
In addition, as a gesture of respect and a symbol of friendship between higher education institutions, the Rector of STEKOM University presented a souvenir in the form of traditional Indonesian batik to Arunai College of Engineering. The souvenir represented Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and identity and was warmly received by the host institution as a sign of goodwill and collaborative spirit between nations.
We hope this collaboration will continue to grow and provide tangible
contributions to strengthening education, research, and student
innovation at the global level.
In his remarks, Noorul Hassan also emphasized the importance of mastering artificial intelligence and data science as core competencies for the younger generation in the era of digital transformation. He encouraged students to use competitions as a means to develop
creativity, technical skills, and international competitiveness.
After the opening session concluded at 10:30, the activities continued with the Hackathon competition until 17:00. Participants took part in the competition in the computer laboratories and campus auditorium. More than 100 students from various universities in India, Malaysia, and Indonesia participated in the event. The participants developed various technological solutions according to the predetermined theme within a limited timeframe. The committee provided prizes totaling 25,000 rupees for the top three teams as recognition of the innovation and quality of the works produced.
STEKOM University’s participation in CODEFEST 2 – Hackathon 2026 demonstrates the institution’s commitment to supporting the development of student competencies in information technology and digital innovation. The direct presence of university leaders and students in India serves as concrete evidence of STEKOM’s seriousness in building International academic networks and encouraging students to adapt to technological advancements, enhance global competitiveness, and produce works that benefit society.