On April 28, 2025, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Engineering College (SMVEC) in Puducherry hosted the inaugural “Azure AI Day,” a collaborative technology conclave organized by the Department of IT and Yatri Cloud. The event aimed to immerse students in the transformative world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, with a particular focus on Microsoft Azure’s AI capabilities.
The event commenced with the soulful rendition of the “Thamizhthai Vaazhthu,”. This was followed by the SMVEC anthem, instilling a sense of pride and unity among the attendees. These opening ceremonies set a reverent tone, reflecting the institution’s respect for tradition and its community.
Welcoming Address
The formal proceedings commenced with a welcome speech by Dr. R. Raju, Professor and Head of the Department of Information Technology. He was extended a warm welcome to all attendees, highlighting the significance of the event and the institution’s ongoing endeavors in the realm of information technology. His address underscored the collaborative spirit and the pursuit of knowledge that define the college’s academic environment.
Falicitation Address
Shri D. Rajarajan, Treasurer of the SMVEC Trust, delivered a compelling felicitation address that resonated deeply with students and faculty alike. In his speech, He emphasized the importance of continuous learning and the execution of tasks with precision and uniqueness. He encouraged students to embrace change positively as they advance in their careers, highlighting adaptability as a crucial skill in today’s dynamic professional landscape.
Esteemed Speakers and Engaging Sessions
SESSION 1
Championing AI Innovation in Startups
Yatharth Chauhan, founder of Webxela and Yatri Cloud, is at the forefront of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the startup ecosystem. With a robust background in cloud computing, systems management, and business strategy, he leverages his expertise to drive innovation and efficiency in emerging ventures.
He extends to his participation in initiatives like the Microsoft Student Innovator Series, where he collaborates with peers to explore AI’s potential in startups. His endeavors exemplify how AI can revolutionize traditional business models, offering scalable solutions and personalized customer experiences.
Advancing Cybersecurity Through AI and DevSecOps
Nensi Ravaliya, a DevSecOps Engineer at Standard Chartered, is at the forefront of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into cybersecurity and cloud infrastructure. Her work focuses on embedding AI-driven security measures within the DevSecOps framework, enhancing the organization’s ability to detect and respond to threats in real-time.
By leveraging AI, Nensi contributes to the development of adaptive security systems that can analyze vast datasets, identify anomalies, and automate responses to potential threats. This approach not only strengthens the security posture of cloud environments but also ensures compliance with evolving regulatory standards.
SESSION 2
Unveiling Microsoft’s AI Tools for Real-World Applications
Shruti Jain, Senior Software Engineer at Microsoft, provided an in-depth exploration of Microsoft’s AI tools and their practical applications. She was highlighted how Microsoft’s AI-powered solutions, such as Copilot, are transforming productivity across various sectors. These tools assist professionals by automating routine tasks, analyzing large datasets, and generating insights, thereby allowing individuals to focus more on creative and strategic endeavors. For instance, Copilot integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365 applications like Word, Excel, and Outlook, enhancing user experience through intelligent assistance.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion in Tech
Keerthana H S, a passionate advocate for diversity in technology, serves as a mentor for Microsoft’s “Code Without Barriers” initiative. This program is dedicated to empowering women in tech by providing access to education, mentorship, and career opportunities in AI, cloud computing, and data science. Through her involvement, Keerthana emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and creating inclusive digital solutions. By mentoring aspiring female developers, she helps bridge the gender gap in the tech industry, fostering a more equitable and dynamic workforce.
Empowering Learning Through Student Inquiry
At the conclusion of the session, students actively engaged in a dynamic question-and-answer segment, seeking clarity on various topics discussed. This interactive exchange not only addressed their immediate uncertainties but also fostered a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
A Step Towards Future Innovations
Azure AI Day 2025 at SMVEC marked a significant step in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations. By providing a platform for students to interact with professionals and gain practical insights into AI and cloud computing, the event laid the groundwork for future innovations and collaborations.
