FIRST Global, Title Sponsor Lam Research To Host The World’s Most International Innovation Challenge

* Nearly 200 countries to compete in robotics at the 2023 FIRST Global Challenge in Singapore

The 2023 FIRST Global Challenge will in a few weeks bring together thousands of teens from across the globe to compete in robotics and collaborate to find renewable energy solutions. Created and administered by FIRST Global and helped made possible by Title Sponsor Lam Research, the exciting four-day event is intended to encourage the next generation of innovators.

The 2023 FIRST Global Challenge will be held in Singapore from October 7-10, 2023. The event focuses on cultivating a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through competition and fun. Now in its seventh year, the Challenge continues to grow in size and scale. Under this year’s theme, “Hydrogen Horizons,” competing high school age students will learn about renewable energy and sharpen their problem-solving skills. With nearly 200 countries competing, the event is the most multinational innovation competition in the world, according to FIRST Global.

“The 2023 FIRST Global Challenge is more than a robotics and STEM challenge, it’s a springboard to inspire curiosity, the innovative spirit, and the understanding of what’s possible when we work together,” said Dean Kamen, founder of FIRST Global. “We are thrilled to bring the FIRST Global Challenge to Singapore. This year, the event is of particular importance as it centers on revolutionizing renewable energy — one of the world’s most pressing problems.”

Powering Breakthroughs Together

Lam, a global supplier of innovative wafer fabrication equipment and services to the semiconductor industry, believes that increasing the pipeline of future talent in technology is not only critical to driving the future of semiconductors but also enabling the world to tackle its biggest challenges.

“As we continue to transform the world through technology, we are committed to taking an active role in inspiring and empowering the next generation to help create a better world,” said Stacey MacNeil, chief communications officer and group vice president of ESG at Lam Research. “The FIRST Global Challenge provides life-changing learning experiences for competing students, equipping them with the knowledge and skillsets needed to succeed in the innovation workforce of the future.”

The company has pledged a $10 million donation* to FIRST Global, providing critical funding to support FIRST Global’s mission to expand access to STEM education and cultivate future global technology leaders. The Lam donation is the company’s most significant gift since unveiling its social impact platform, Powering Breakthroughs Together, in 2022. This year, Lam has also provided over 30 mentors worldwide for competing teams, helping to ensure every youth team has an opportunity to thrive at the event.

Teens to Collaborate on Robotics and Develop New Renewable Energy Solutions

During the FIRST Global Challenge, each team will put their unique robot built for the competition to the test in a series of matches and challenges related to renewable energy. Robots will be navigated through a game environment which represents the process of hydrogen energy development. Each team's robot will score points by producing hydrogen and then storing, transporting, and converting energy. Teams will work together in randomly selected multi-country alliances to score points, thereby encouraging global cooperation and collaborative innovation.

“For the world to overcome its greatest challenges like reaching net zero, it is imperative that we inspire tomorrow’s engineers and technologists,” said Rangesh Raghavan, Corporate VP and General Manager, Lam Research, India. “Lam is proud to be the Title Sponsor of this year’s FIRST Global Challenge. This event represents a transformative learning experience to equip students with the knowledge and skill sets needed to succeed in the innovation workforce of the future.”

FIRST Global teams will also compete in an innovation competition known as the New Technology Experience (NTE). Under the NTE theme “Energy Evolution,” teams are guided to understand all types of renewable energy, including hydrogen technologies. FIRST Global teams will then research and develop their own innovative solutions to advance the implementation of and improve access to renewable energy.

More information on the 2023 FIRST Global Challenge can be found at first.global.

Media Resources:

Watch the 2023 FIRST Global Challenge official promo video here.

View the 2023 FIRST Global Challenge live starting October 7 at https://first.global/live/  

Details from participating country teams can be found at https://first.global/fgc/#teams  

Images of the 2023 Challenge to be available following the event in the Media Center in the Lam Research Newsroom.

Learn more about the India National Team from Goa, here and watch what they have to say about representing their country here.

Visit Lamresearch.com to learn more about Lam’s Powering Breakthroughs Together platform.

Read about Lam Research’s plans to advance India’s semiconductor workforce development goals here. 

About FIRST Global

FIRST Global’s mission is to inspire science and technology leadership and innovation in youth from all nations in order to increase understanding, instill the importance of cooperation, address the world’s most pressing issues, and improve quality of life for all. Bringing these future STEM leaders together in an engaging and collaborative competition drives home the importance, excitement, and applicability of STEM education and demonstrates that they can work together — even in competition — to find solutions to the world’s greatest challenges. Learn more at first.global.

About Lam Research

Lam Research Corporation (NASDAQ: LRCX) is a global supplier of innovative wafer fabrication equipment and services to the semiconductor industry. Lam's equipment and services allow customers to build smaller and better performing devices. In fact, today, nearly every advanced chip is built with Lam technology. We combine superior systems engineering, technology leadership, and a strong values-based culture, with an unwavering commitment to our customers. Lam Research is a FORTUNE 500® company headquartered in Fremont, California, with operations around the globe. Learn more at www.lamresearch.com.

*Contribution to be distributed over a three-year period, from 2023-2025.

Platform 65 Unveils Second Toy Train-Themed Restaurant In Bengaluru

Platform 65, India's largest chain of toy train-themed restaurants, proudly announces the grand opening of its 11th restaurant, nestled in the heart of Bengaluru in Rajarajeshwari Nagar. The inauguration ceremony, which took place on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Kusuma Hanumantharayappa, Member of Indian National Congress, Priya Krishna, MLA of Govindaraj Nagar and M Yoga Murthy, Managing Director YGR Corp.

The ceremony witnessed the presence of Venkatesh Gopisetty, Vice President, Srikath Bandaru, Corporate General Manager, Suresh VH, Corporate Executive Chef and Mahesh Prattipati, Executive Director of RR Nagar from the Platform 65 team and added to the grandeur of this auspicious occasion.

"This marks a significant milestone for Platform 65," remarked Mr. Sadgun Patha, Managing Director and Founder of Platform 65. "We are once again thrilled to bring our unique dining experience to the vibrant city of Bengaluru. Our commitment to creating memorable dining experiences continues to grow, and we are excited to share this special journey with our patrons. With 11 restaurants in India, this is our second in this city, and we look forward to providing even more exceptional experiences to our diners."

Kusuma Hanumantharayappa, Member of Indian National Congress said, “I am delighted to inaugurate Platform 65's newest restaurant in Bengaluru. It not only offers a delightful culinary experience but also contributes to the betterment of our neighbourhood. We believe this restaurant will not only serve exquisite meals but also serve as a hub for community engagement, fostering a sense of togetherness and enhancing the overall quality of life in our beloved Rajarajeshwari Nagar."

Munirathna, MLA of Rajarajeshwari Nagar expressed his enthusiasm for the new restaurant, saying, "The all new Platform 65 restaurant in Rajarajeshwari Nagar is a momentous occasion for our community. It adds a unique flavour to our culinary landscape, offering a nostalgic journey through the charm of trains and the rich history of Rajarajeshwari Nagar."

The newly opened restaurant boasts a captivating interior that pays homage to the rich history of Rajarajeshwari Nagar. Its vintage aesthetic, characterised by stone walls and carefully curated artefacts, transports diners to a bygone era, creating a warm and inviting ambience.

Platform 65's second restaurant in Bengaluru promises to be a cherished addition to the city's dining scene, offering patrons an unforgettable experience that blends delectable cuisine with a touch of nostalgia.

Photo Caption: Platform 65 opened its 11th restaurant in the presence of Kusuma Hanumantharayappa, Member of Indian National Congress and M Yoga Murthy, Managing Director YGR Corp inaugurating the all-new Platform 65 in RR Nagar.

University of Melbourne Launches Global Alumni Ambassadors Program

The University of Melbourne, Australia’s leading university and ranked 14th globally, has launched its Alumni Network and Melbourne Global Alumni Ambassadors Program in India as part of a week-long series of events to deepen engagement with students and stakeholders across the country.

The University’s Indian alumni cohort is one of the largest global alumni communities residing outside of Australia. The India Alumni Network and Ambassadors program will provide new opportunities for local alumni to connect with each other, expand their networks and grow community engagement initiatives across several cities within India. 

The program was launched during the University’s senior academic engagement delegation to India in September, led by the University of Melbourne Provost, Professor Nicola Phillips. Professor Phillips, the standing deputy to the Vice-Chancellor and the Chief Academic Officer of the University, scheduled her first institutional visit to India as Provost to coincide with a number of important education partnership meetings and celebrations. 

“The University of Melbourne takes great pride in the strong partnerships developed in India and it has been my privilege to see for myself the mutual benefit, capability build, and impact we are creating together,” said Professor Phillips. 

During the launch of the Ambassadors Program and addressing a major cohort of India-based University alumni, Nick Blinco, Vice-President Advancement, Communications and Marketing noted the Australia-India connection is one of the most important international relationships for the University of Melbourne, which is committed to supporting India’s education agenda.

“We want to build a highly engaged and supportive Alumni community to share their wealth of knowledge and experience with Indian students and community stakeholders. The Global Ambassadors program will provide local alumni with new opportunities to connect with each other and for the University to have broader impact.” Mr Blinco said.

During the delegation, University alumni and academics have been meeting with prospective students at a series of events across Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore to provide opportunities to learn more about research and learning at the University. This senior Faculty cohort from the University has also been meeting with a number of research and higher education institutions to look at opportunities for capacity building and enablement across a number of industry sectors.

“With our multi-city event series, we are looking to showcase the distinctiveness of our unique curriculum and research expertise in collaboration with students, alumni and our higher education partner community in India,” said Mr Blinco.

The University of Melbourne has established many long-term partnerships with esteemed Indian varsities. The University’s ambition has been to partner across the learning lifecycle, and co-design and pilot programs that enable a scalable approach to provide as many Indian students as possible with education opportunities.

Earlier this year, the University launched a new Bachelor of Science Dual Degree program with four esteemed public and private university partners, SPPU, University of Madras, GITAM University and Shoolini University. The program enables students to complete their Bachelor of Science and a corresponding master’s degree, with the first two years spent at their home institution and then two years on campus in Melbourne.

The institution will also expand its presence in India next year, with the establishment of a Global Centre in Delhi to build on existing engagements in-country. The facility will enable the institution to showcase its full range of educational courses, research programs and host events such as lecture series, cultural performances and exhibitions.

Deeptech Startup oorja Raises $1.5 Million In Pre-Series A Funding

* The funding round was led by Micelio Fund and will support product development and market expansion plans

oorja, a Bengaluru-based deep tech startup that uses a combination of Physics and ML to perform predictive modelling, today announced that it has raised $1.5 million in seed funding. The funding round was led by Micelio Fund, the first venture capital fund in India dedicated exclusively to enabling radical and sustainable innovation in the clean mobility ecosystem and co-led by Capital-A. Java Capital, Anicut Capital and Lead Angels also participated in the funding round. oorja will utilise the funds to build their product and make inroads into Europe and North American markets.

Headquartered in Bengaluru, India, oorja is a deep tech startup that was launched in 2022. oorja uses a combination of Physics and ML to perform predictive modelling. Through its ‘first of its kind’, easy-to-use cloud-based platform that uses a hybrid (Physics and ML) approach, oorja enables designers and engineers to create accurate and reliable solutions with predictable performance under real-life conditions. oorja is currently working to empower automotive OEMs and designers to make informed decisions to optimize battery packs by reducing time to market and costs.

Within a year of its existence, oorja has already launched its product and an extensive range of apps that address every battery design challenge including material, range, capacity fade, thermal management, and cell design. oorja currently has over 15 customers spread across Asia and Europe.

“Physics-based tools that are currently used are complex, difficult to deploy and slow down time to market. Our motivation behind oorja has been to solve complex engineering problems at the design stage with a cutting-edge world-class product made in India. Our Hybrid approach uses a combination of physics + ML to improve accuracy and speed up time to market,” said Dr. Vineet Dravid, Founder, oorja energy. “We are grateful to our investors for reposing their faith in our capabilities and empowering us in our journey towards making oorja the go-to design analysis tool in the new age mobility industry.”

Alok Chauhan, Principal, Micelio Technology Fund said, “We are very excited to partner with oorja. They are solving a crucial global problem to ensure the transition to clean mobility is safe and efficient. Engineering design is getting complex and time-consuming leading to long release cycles and need user-friendly, time-efficient tools to assist new technology development and launch products faster. Vineet and team have the most relevant background and have built an impactful solution that has the potential to be a global category-leader in the space.”

Ankit Kedia, Founder and Lead Investor - Capital-A, who had also invested in oorja at the seed stage said, “From the very beginning, Capital-A recognized the immense potential of oorja’s groundbreaking approach to predictive modelling. We were the first believers in their vision and their unique fusion of Physics and ML to revolutionize the clean mobility landscape. Our deep expertise in the EV and Mobility sectors enabled us to collaborate closely with oorja, contributing to the development of a powerful thesis in this domain. In a world where regulatory environments around EVs are rapidly evolving, simulation emerges as the future path. oorja’s cloud-based platform aligns perfectly with this trajectory. We are happy to play a crucial role in supporting their journey to become the go-to design analysis tool in the new age mobility industry.’’

oorja is part of Indian Science Technology Engineering facilities map ( ISTEM) program which operates under the aegis of the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India. Through ISTEM, students in over 800 colleges across India have access to the oorja application suite for research and education. oorja has also received the SISFS grant via Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU), Gandhinagar and is currently incubated in NSRCEL, the flagship business incubator of IIM Bangalore, under Mobility Cohort – 2.

NEC Corporation India Receives Prestigious India Smart Cities Award For Transforming Surat's Urban Mobility

* Surat's transit overhaul sets a benchmark for sustainable and efficient urban transportation across the nation

NEC Corporation India, a subsidiary of NEC Corporation, received an accolade today at the India Smart Cities Award Contest (ISAC) 2022 organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under the Smart Cities Mission. The event showcased NEC Corporation India as one of the top three MSIs in the smart city segment with its Surat Bus Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) project, winning the 2nd award in the MSI Partner category. NEC’s award-winning Surat Bus AFCS has simplified citywide commuting for travellers, using contactless RuPay-based smart cards designed to enhance the daily travel experience for approximately 200,000 commuters.

Upon receiving this prestigious award from Hardeep Singh Puri, the Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs, during the award ceremony, Aalok Kumar, Corporate Officer & Senior Vice President - Head of the Global Smart City Business at NEC Corporation, and President & CEO of NEC Corporation India, said, "I am immensely proud of NEC India's significant strides in the urban mobility sector. This award speaks volumes about NEC's pioneering initiatives that champion sustainability, inclusiveness, and the advancement of the country's smart city vision. Received especially for the Surat smart city project, this acknowledgment from ISAC 2022 is reflective of both the city's and NEC's steadfast dedication to turning the notion of urban mobility into a beneficial daily reality for its inhabitants. Surat's transformation into a paradigm of a smart city is truly commendable. The flawless amalgamation of its public transport systems is just one among its many accomplishments, making the city a standard for others to emulate."

Aalok Kumar further added, "I thank the Indian government for trusting NEC India with vital smart city projects. We aim to provide safe, smart, and secure solutions, supporting India's growth and meeting the needs of its billion+ citizens.”

Kamlesh Naik - General Manager and Managing Director of Surat Sitilink Limited, said, “The AFCS implemented in Surat is a SMART solution that aligns perfectly with our city's vision for SMART public transportation. NEC has not only set up the system but has also exhibited unparalleled dedication in its operations and maintenance over the past seven years. This steadfast commitment has resulted in a seamlessly integrated public transit experience for our citizens. Thanks to NEC's comprehensive work, commuters in Surat can now enjoy the convenience of a single integrated ticket, regardless of their chosen mode of transportation. This integration has empowered the Surat Municipal Corporation to consolidate and streamline various transit offerings, including the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) and city bus services within high mobility corridors. Furthermore, NEC's innovative approach has ushered in the digitization of fare collection and revenue generation, bringing technological advancements to our public transport system. This not only enhances efficiency but also sets a new standard for modern urban mobility solutions. We look forward to continued success in our collaborative efforts to elevate public transportation in our vibrant city.”

Initiated on 10th March 2017 and accomplished by 15th February 2019, AFCS is a SMART solution of the Surat smart city to achieve the SMART goals. NEC, having set up the system, now managed its operations and maintenance for seven years, highlighting its dedication to streamlined public transit. Thanks to NEC's comprehensive work in Surat, people can now commute throughout the city with a single ticket, regardless of their choice of mode of transportation. This initiative has empowered the Surat Municipal Corporation to integrate its various transit offerings, including the BRTS and city bus services, in high mobility corridors. The Surat Money Card (SMC) integrates multiple AFCS features, ensuring seamless operations across 157 BRTS stations and spanning 166 BRTS and 575 city buses. Furthermore, by minimising paper ticket use, the SMC supports Surat's environmental ambitions while providing users with advantages across municipal services and shops. Notably, ridership (per day) surged from 28,000 in 2014 to 210,000 in 2022, and transactions per day via the Surat Money Card rose exponentially from none in 2018 to 72,754 in 2022.

About Surat’s AFCS, click here to watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8d_0yMD1-0

About NEC Corporation India (NEC India):

NEC is a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies and brings more than 124 years of expertise in technological innovation to provide solutions for empowering people, businesses, and society. Headquartered in Japan, NEC started operations in India in the 1950s, accelerating its growth through the expansion of business to global markets. NEC in India expanded its business from telecommunications to public safety, logistics, transportation, retail, finance, unified communication, and IT platforms, serving across governments, businesses as well as individuals. With its Centre of Excellence for analytics platform solutions, big data, biometrics, mobile and retail, NEC in India offers innovative new services and solutions for India and global markets. 

10th IME 2023 To Usher International Exhibitions And Conferences To Focus On Key Industrial Sectors

The 10th edition of the four-day International Mining, Equipment & Minerals (IME 2023) is scheduled to begin on November 6, 2023 at Kolkata where participants from more than 30countries.

Concurrently, the 10th Asian Mining Congress will provide a forum to promote and advance techno-scientific cooperation towards national and international progress in the areas of mineral production, in addition to the development of new opportunities of sustainable business that will benefit both Asian and Global Mining Communities.

The International Exhibition will also  showcase Alternate Energies sources, Electric Vehicles along with Mining, Minerals, and allied industries.

The theme of this year’s Mining Congress - “Roadmap for Best Mining Practices vis-à-vis Global Transformation”- is likely to brainstorm on best mining practices taking stock of the recent developments, availability of state-of-the-art technologies, equipment and relevant cutting-edge innovations, including digital transformations in the sector.

The event is expected to be inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister of Coal Mines & Parliamentary Affairs, Govt. of India in the presence of Foreign Trade Commissions and several other senior officers from the Central & State Governments.

Organisations from such mega sectors as Steel, Metallurgy, Construction - equipment, materials, Alternate Energies sources, Electric Vehicles along with Mining, Minerals and allied industries, will participate in the event.

Organised by TAFCON along with MGMI, the event expects 25,000 high value business visitors, close to 15,000 trade visitors and 1,000 delegates besides several trade delegation from Australia, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Russia, Turkey, Iran, the UK, and USA.

Announcing the details of the mega international exhibitions and conferences, IP Wadhwa, Managing Worker, Tafcon Projects India Private Limited said, "This shall be the first ever platform slated to represent such varied sectors as Steel, Metallurgy, Construction - equipment, materials apart from Alternate Future Energy and Electric Vehicle segment".  

Billed as one of the breakthrough exhibitions and conference of India, the mega four-day event will mark many related B2B meetings which will be held as concurrent events: IME – the flagship event ISME – International Steel and Metallurgy Exhibition, CEM – International Construction, Equipment & Materials Exhibition at the same venue.

This is of great significance considering that India is presently the largest crude steel producer in the world and construction is one among the key growth drivers. 

With a global requirement for new advancement and initiatives in the Energy sector, these B2B Exhibitions promise to be a unique place for the increased international footfalls and businesses to flourish. 

The Green School Bangalore Receives Prestigious International Green School Award 2023 at NYC Green School Conference

* The Green School Bangalore, Only School in India, Receives Prestigious International Green School Award 2023 at NYC Green School Conference

The Green School Bangalore (TGSB), a beacon of sustainability and environmental stewardship, is thrilled to announce its receipt of the esteemed International Green School Award 2023. The Green School Bangalore stands as the sole institution in India to have received the prestigious award. This prestigious accolade was presented at the 7th NYC Green School Conference, held at Cornell University on September 15, 2023.

"Celebrating this award is not merely a recognition for The Green School Bangalore, it reaffirms our steadfast commitment to forging a more sustainable and eco-conscious future. With renewed resolve, our journey persists, and together, we shall leave an enduring mark on our planet. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Virendra Rawat of Green Mentors for his invaluable mentoring on our Green Initiative." - Ms. Usha Mohan, Founder & Director of The Green School Bangalore TGSB, a zero carbon waste and energy school, has long been a trailblazer in the field of sustainable education. The school's lush green campus, which perfectly embodies the principles of sustainability and ideology, has now been recognized as a true champion of UNESCO 2030 Goals. This recognition underscores TGSB's unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of environmental consciousness and green education.

At The Green School Bangalore, sustainability is not just a buzzword but a way of life. The school firmly believes in the importance of taking concrete actions to reduce carbon emissions and create a healthier environment for current and future generations. Through a myriad of innovative projects and initiatives, TGSB has seamlessly integrated the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its curriculum. This unique approach ensures that students not only receive a top-tier education but also develop a profound understanding of sustainable practices.

TGSB has harnessed the power of solar energy to significantly reduce its carbon footprint. Solar panels strategically placed throughout the campus harness sunlight and convert it into clean, renewable electricity. This not only reduces the school's dependence on non-renewable energy sources but also serves as a valuable educational tool. TGSB goes beyond traditional education by providing students with a real-world connection to environmental science through its weather station. The weather station is an integral part of the campus, allowing students to monitor and analyze local weather patterns and climate data.

TGSB's green curriculum is the backbone of the school's commitment to environmental education. This specialized curriculum is designed to immerse students in sustainable practices and instill a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Through the green curriculum, students learn about topics such as renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, waste reduction, and climate change.

This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and passion of TGSB's exceptional team. Their tireless commitment to embodying the principles of the SDGs on a daily basis has been instrumental in this success. Moreover, the invaluable contribution of the school's esteemed faculty, who have worked diligently to integrate these goals into the curriculum, cannot be overstated. With the International Green School Award 2023 in hand, The Green School Bangalore is more motivated than ever to continue its journey towards a greener and more sustainable future. This accolade serves as a testament to the school's enduring commitment to environmental stewardship and its role in nurturing the next generation of eco-conscious leaders.