COEP’s MindSpark’26 Draws Over 32,000 Visitors for Its 20th Edition in Pune
Pune, 9th October 2026: COEP Technological University’s flagship annual technical festival, MindSpark’26, concluded its 20th edition on October 4, drawing more than 32,000 visitors and recording over 9,000 registrations during the two-day event held on October 3 and 4.
Organised around the theme “Infinite Continuum,” the festival brought together students, innovators, educators and technology enthusiasts for a series of competitions, exhibitions, interactive activities and knowledge-sharing sessions.
The 20th edition featured 35 events spanning technology, innovation, creativity and problem-solving. Key attractions included the Tech Expo, Bike Expo, Auto Expo and a 24-hour hackathon, which offered participants opportunities to explore technological applications and develop solutions to challenging problems.
The Game of Innovation (GOI) initiative provided a platform for students to apply technological concepts to real-world challenges and turn their ideas into practical solutions.
Outreach initiatives engage school students
MindSpark’26 also focused on introducing younger students to technology and innovation through its outreach initiatives. Genius Junior (GJ) engaged students from more than 15 schools, while the Campus Connect initiative connected with students across different campuses.
A special session conducted by Vivek Velankar for students of Classes 9 and 10 added to the festival’s educational outreach activities.
The festival also featured keynote sessions by Saurav Jha, Ajay Pandey and A. A. Natu of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune. Dr G. Raghavan addressed the gathering during the valedictory ceremony.
Industry participation and university support
The festival received support from industry partners, including Wipro PARI, Autodesk, Walter P Moore, ENABL3, Newton Auto, Forbes Marshall and Badhekar Group, along with associate sponsors and other partners.
Siddharth Pundale, Technical Secretary, highlighted the role of technology and creativity in translating ideas into practical outcomes. Dr Radhika D. Joshi, Faculty Advisor, emphasised the importance of learning beyond the classroom.
Dr Mahesh Shindikar, Associate Director, and Dr M. P. Khond, Director of the Board of Students’ Development, also supported the festival’s focus on innovation and student development.
The organisers acknowledged the guidance and contributions of Prof. Sunil Bhirud, Vice-Chancellor; Dr D. N. Sonawane, Registrar; the university’s directors, deans, heads of departments and faculty members, as well as the student teams involved in organising the festival.
With its 20th edition completed, MindSpark’26 concluded with a focus on innovation, collaboration and experiential learning, reinforcing its role as a platform for students to explore emerging technologies and exchange ideas.
