How are students in India preparing for real startup challenges while still in college
A powerful answer emerged from Navi Mumbai this April as ITM Skills University hosted its dynamic intercollegiate hackathon, Summer Hacks 2026. The 24-hour innovation sprint was not just another coding event. It became a live testing ground for ideas, resilience, and entrepreneurial thinking.
With 635 registrations pouring in from institutions across the country, the energy was evident even before the event began. From these, 439 participants formed 124 teams, representing a diverse mix of technical minds eager to solve real-world problems.
What made this hackathon stand out
Unlike traditional competitions, Summer Hacks 2026 focused on building Minimum Viable Products. Students were not just coding for scores. They were building solutions that could potentially evolve into startups. The challenge pushed participants to think beyond functionality and consider scalability, usability, and business viability.
For 24 intense hours, teams collaborated, brainstormed, built, failed, improved, and presented. The environment closely resembled real startup ecosystems where time is limited and expectations are high.
Dr. Kalpana Kumaran, Head of the B.Tech Program, highlighted the deeper purpose behind the event. She emphasized that such platforms shift students from passive learning to active creation, enabling them to build solutions that matter in the real world.
Who emerged as winners
The competition saw some remarkable ideas and execution. Straw Hats from ITM School of FutureTech secured the first position with a standout solution that impressed judges across all parameters.
Gen AI tech from D Y Patil College of Engineering Akurdi claimed the second spot, showcasing strong innovation and technical depth.
Code Paglus from ITM School of FutureTech secured third place, reinforcing the institution’s internal culture of innovation.
Why does this matter for future students
Events like Summer Hacks 2026 highlight a major shift in engineering education. The focus is no longer limited to textbooks or exams. Institutions are actively creating opportunities where students can experiment, build, and think like entrepreneurs.
Participants walked away not just with certificates or rankings, but with hands-on experience in product development, teamwork under pressure, and exposure to startup thinking.
For aspiring engineers and innovators, this signals a clear direction. The future belongs to those who can create, adapt, and solve problems in real time.
Admissions for programs at ITM Skills University are now open for students who want to be part of such practical and future-focused learning environments.
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