Students of St Joseph Engineering College, Mangaluru, emerge winners in Social Enterprise Idea Challenge organised by Azim Premji University

Bangalore, October 19, 2024: Students of St Joseph Engineering College, Mangaluru, Karnataka, emerged winners of the eight edition of the National Level Social Enterprise Idea Challenge organized by Azim Premji University.

In 2016, Azim Premji University launched the annual “Social Enterprise Idea Challenge” that brings students from across India to explore social entrepreneurship and share innovative social change ideas in a rigorous and competitive environment. The event also acts as a networking platform for young minds to meet each other, exchange thoughts and showcase their talent and skills to some of the early-stage mentors and funders. 

Fifteen teams were shortlisted from over 150 entries from universities and colleges across the country for the final round. The submissions were broadly in the domains of education, livelihood, health, sustainability and governance. 

First prize: Vyasa M Nayak, Lisha D S, Joshua Quinthino Albuquerque from St Joseph Engineering College 

Summary of the idea: HiveLink is a social enterprise model using IoT sensors, wireless communication, cloud computing, machine learning, and geospatial tech to empower beekeepers. Implemented at beehive sites in Bantwal, Karnataka, HiveLink provides real-time monitoring, early disease detection, and theft prevention. By streamlining hive management, it supports rural beekeepers and ensures the sustainability of India's beekeeping industry.

Second prize: Team Urooj – Students from Azim Premji University, Bangalore, Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Sirmaur, and Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi

Summary of the Idea: Urooj is aimed at addressing social inequalities and structural discrimination through their fellowship program. They are focused at bridging the gap between education and employability by teaching computer skills and enhancing learning ability.

Third Prize: Team Minds4Minds -- Students from IIM, Udaipur, Mahindra United World College (UWC India), and Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)

Summary of the idea: Minds4Minds is dedicated to empowering children and teens (6-18) by fostering emotional resilience and mental well-being through fun, engaging clubs in schools and communities. By blending mental health education with immersive activities, they promote balanced digital use, emotional growth, and strong community bonds.

Nazrul Haque, Mentor for the Social Enterprise Cell at Azim Premji University, noted: “It was gratifying to see the understanding and appreciation of social issues among the participants and their determination to find solutions. The majority of past winners are working towards bringing social change.”