A Hackathon was organized by the UG Research Cell in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers (IIChE), aimed at engaging students in real-time industrial problem-solving and process design. The event brought together enthusiastic participants from various colleges who showcased their innovative thinking, teamwork, and technical knowledge to address a complex problem. An esteemed panel of judges were invited to evaluate the teams which included Mitesh P sir senior process engineer at Technip energies. Sir is an experienced Process Engineer with a strong background in Design, Engineering, Operations, and Project Management, specializing in Ammonia and Hydrogen technologies and Dr Leena Bora who is working as an assistant professor in chemical engineering department since 2006. She has published several papers in the areas of sustainability, catalysis, energy etc and is a reviewer of international referred journals.
The core problem statement revolved around the design and optimization of an ammonia production unit, specifically focusing on a basic gasification unit. Participants were provided with a simplified diagram of the gasification unit, which consisted of a streamlined layout with numbered points. The challenge was for the students to identify the necessary process equipment and instruments, arrange them according to process requirements, and ensure that the system operated efficiently and consistently with the given constraints. The statement was provided 48hrs before and the teams were supposed to submit their presentations 24hrs before the event.
The objective was to test not only the student’s technical knowledge but also their ability to apply engineering principles to solve real-world process challenges. The design had to incorporate equipment such as reactors, compressors, heat exchangers, and separation units, while also considering factors like pressure, temperature, and flow rates.
Total 17 teams registered from various colleges including Nirma University, Pandit Deendayal Energy University, Government Polytechnic Jamnagar and many more.
The students utilized engineering tools and software like Aspen Hysys to model their solutions and ensure that the process design adhered to ammonia production standards. The teams presented their designs through detailed PowerPoint slides, which not only explained the flow of the process but also included critical parameters like reaction kinetics, material and energy balances, equipment specifications, and operational challenges. The participants were also expected to clearly articulate their design choices and decisions to the panel of judges.
Following the presentations, a viva session was conducted to assess the students understanding of the ammonia production process and the rationale behind their designs. This provided valuable insights into the participants problem-solving approach, analytical skills, and technical proficiency.
The Hackathon, organized by the UG Research Cell and IIChE was a successful event, offering a platform for students to showcase their technical acumen and creativity. It not only helped students build their knowledge of chemical process design but also emphasized the importance of critical thinking, innovation, and effective communication in the field of chemical engineering. The event highlighted the significance of collaborative learning and provided valuable insights into the challenges and intricacies of designing an ammonia production unit.
Team X (PDEU) comprising Yash Talele, Tathya Modi, and Aryan Pandya won the hackathon, while ReactOps (Nirma University) with Jay Patel, Jiya Sisodiya, and Jainam Padia secured the runner-up position.
The Poster Presentation Competition hosted by Department of Chemical engineering in collaboration with UG Research Cell under UG Symposium, took place on 29th March, 2025. The competition aimed to provide a platform for students to showcase their innovative research ideas, projects and findings in the form of visually compelling posters.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:
Each participant presented their research or engineering project through a visually captivating poster. These were evaluated based on their creativity, relevance, technical accuracy, and clarity. A distinguished panel of judges, including faculty members and industry professionals, evaluated the projects based on creativity, technical depth, and their relevance to current engineering challenges. After a thorough evaluation, Nikhil Chandrapal and Darshan Dhaduk emerged as the winners for their exceptional research and well-designed poster on Natural Flocculants: A Sustainable Approach, which stood out for its creativity and clarity. Overall, the event served as an excellent platform for students to showcase their research, receive constructive feedback, and enhance their presentation and technical skills.
The event concluded on a high note, with participants gaining valuable insights and feedback from peers and experts. It served as a great platform for exchanging ideas, fostering collaborations, and sparking new discussions. The event not only showcased the creativity and hard work of the participants but also inspired future innovations, leaving everyone eager to continue pushing the boundaries of technology and research.
The UG Research Cell successfully organized a Paper Presentation Competition under UG symposium today, providing a platform for undergraduate students to showcase their research work and presentation skills. The event aimed to encourage academic inquiry, critical thinking, and effective communication among young researchers.
The competition saw enthusiastic participation from students across various disciplines, each presenting their unique research findings. The participants demonstrated their ability to analyse, interpret, and present complex information in a structured manner, reflecting their dedication and commitment to academic excellence.
The event was honored by the presence of two distinguished judges:Mr. Swapnil Dharaskar and Dr. R.N. Reddy. The judges evaluated the presentations based on multiple criteria, including:
✔ Originality and relevance of the research topic
✔ Depth of research and data analysis
✔ Clarity and effectiveness of presentation
✔ Ability to address questions and engage with the audience
Aarambh – Beyond the Boundaries, the annual fest organized by the Chemical Engineering Students Association (ChESA) at Nirma University, was successfully conducted from February 21st to 23rd, 2025. The event provided a perfect blend of technical excellence and creative engagement, offering students a platform to compete, collaborate, and innovate.
Aarambh 2025 featured a wide array of technical and non-technical events, ensuring participation from students across different interests and skill sets.
Technical Events: Mockruit, Startup Arena, ChESA Stock Exchange, CEO’s Crisis, Echo of the Nations.
Non-Technical Events: Candle Crafting Workshop, Atomic Bingo, AstraKhoj (Treasure Hunt), Bollywood Baithak.
Event 1:
Mockruit: A recruitment simulation where students underwent mock interviews, aptitude tests, and group discussions to enhance their corporate readiness.
Event 2:
Startup Arena: A Shark Tank-style entrepreneurial challenge where participants pitched business ideas to a panel of judges.
Event 3:
ChESA Stock Exchange: A virtual stock market simulation, testing students’ decision-making and investment strategies.
Event 4:
CEO’s Crisis: A strategic problem-solving event where participants played the role of CEOs handling critical business and industry crises, testing their leadership and decision-making skills.
Event 5:
Echo of the Nations: A global-themed debate competition where students represented different nations and industries, engaging in discussions on innovations, sustainability, and global challenges.
Event 6:
Candle Crafting Workshop: A creative hands-on session where participants designed and crafted candles, exploring their artistic skills.
Event 7:
Atomic Bingo: A fun and engaging twist on the traditional Bingo game, integrating chemistry-related elements to make it both entertaining and educational.
Event 8:
AstraKhoj (Treasure Hunt): A thrilling treasure hunt where participants solved scientific and logical clues to reach the final prize.
Event 9:
Bollywood Baithak: Antakshari but with an exciting twist to it!
The IIChE Students’ Chapter of Nirma University hosted ChemoZale, a landmark event that celebrates chemical engineering, its creativity and innovation. It collaborated across diverse mix of students, faculty and industry professionals. Chemozale had something for everyone, with engaging mix of insightful talks, interactive competitions and thought-provoking symposia. The platform was such that participants could explore new technologies, show case creative representations, engage in talks ‘across the gaps’ between academia and industry, among other events. It was truly an event of learning, growth and community spirit.
Event Descriptions
Think Tank
The Think Tank was a stimulating brainstorming competition that had participants solve real world chemical engineering problems. It fostered innovative thinking, collaboration and sustainable solutions’ development. An excellent combination of know-how and creativity, the event brought fresh ideas and encouraged teamwork.
Abstract Writing
During this event, students used the opportunity to refine the skill of technical writing, turning complex ideas into concise and compelling abstracts. By learning to speak complex ideas simply and effectively, participants were better able to make their work understandable and interesting to a larger group of people.
Gauntlet of Minds
Gauntlet of Minds was one of the most fun and intellectually stimulating challenges at Chemozale. In rounds of Dumb Charades, Spell Bee, Picture Guessing and Just a Minute (JAM), where creativity, communication and teamwork mattered the most, participants squared off. It was a fun-learning and fierce competition.
Labmaster
The hands-on environment was originally used for labmaster to test students’ practical skills and the capacity to function as a team. The competition was in three rounds of identifying equipment in the lab, testing wastewater pH, and acid-base titration. It was a skill building and memorable experience for all.
House of Fugacity
Innovative escape room style event, House of Fugacity combined chemical engineering knowledge with creative problem solving. Conducted in different conceptual labs with 15 teams navigating through complex puzzles, resulted in participants trying to think critically and work under pressure. It was a mix of great teamwork, technical expertise, and strategic thinking.
Tech Talk Symposium
At the Tech Talk Symposium, students shared the latest technological breakthroughs in the form of paper and poster presentation. The event supported collaboration, opened the door for constructive feedback and idea refinement, delivering new insights and inspiring future innovation.
IIChE MUN
IIChE Model United Nations (MUN) at Nirma University provided students with a very unique experience where students could discuss global issues in a detailed debate and discussion. Five exciting committees were in evidence with the innovative Mahabharat Committee amongst them, giving a taste of international diplomacy, contemporary national policies, political activism among others. It was a perfect intellectual exchange wherein robust discussions, and political negotiations rolled into a prize distribution ceremony and a fun jamming session that indelibly imprinted all who attended.
Chemical Engineering Students Association (ChESA) organized flagship event Aarambh-Rise above the Rest on 15-16 March,2024 on the theme of sustainable development in Chemical Engineering. Commissioner of Ahmedabad IPS Gyanendra Singh Malik was invited for the inaugural ceremony of the Aarambh on 15th of March.
With that wonderful inauguration ceremony, the plethora of 12 events which includes Technical as well as non-technical events. There were 700+ participation across the world for various events such as Resin Fiesta- a play of polymers, The nexus Mind-The ultimate GD-PI battle, Yuva Sansad, Capture-Quest, meme-maniac, Gotilo and Twisted Boards, Eco-explore, Luminescent canvases.
Along with non-technical events exposure of technical event which includes placement procedure. This includes group discussion and personal interview round. Personal Interview was conducted by III cell of Nirma University. This experience helped the participants for the better placement process.
Event:3 Yuva Sansad
Yuva Sansad was a real-life imitation of functioning of the parliament. Participants were offered different political portfolio depending on their personalities. The Agenda for the Parliament was Uniform Civil Code (UCC). They had various rounds such as opening statement, Discussion round, Zero hour for further details on the agenda. This event was hosted and judged by Mr. Naishad Bhavsar.
Event:4 Luminescent canvases
Luminescent Canvases was a blend of creativity and scientific ingenuity where participants transformed blank canvases into capitative works of art, each pulsating with vibrant Luminescence.
Event:5 Twisted Boards
Twisted Board was an engaging game event. This comprised of three rounds, with the first two rounds centered around various elemental mini games and third round was a proper monopoly based on chemical reactions.
Event:7 Capture Quest and Meme Maniac
Capture Quest and Meme Maniac was worldwide event where participants were from various countries where they showcased their photography skills and humors on various real-life activities.
Event: 8 Eco-Explore
Eco-explore was a virtual shark Tank event where participants need critical thinking on problems to get unique solution in problem. The ideas on various problems such as pollution control, new technologies and others.
Event: 9 Reaction Rumbles
Reaction Rumbles was an auction styled bidding event. Participants were engaged in an intense bidding battle for essential commodities and had to negotiate with the buyers of various Top companies to gain a maximum profit and win the event.
On 17th March, 2023, the students of Chemical Engineering Students’ Association (ChESA), of the Department of Chemical Engineering, Institute of Technology, Nirma University, conducted the Inauguration Ceremony of their Annual Flagship Event, “AARAMBH: The New Beginning“. AARAMBH was officially begun under the theme of G-20 Leadership Summit under the aegis of Industrial Revolution 4.0 which saw the participation of over 300 students from universities all over the country. The Association had invited Shri B. M. Prajapati, IAS, Additional Industries Commissioner to the Government of Gujarat as the Chief Guest of the Ceremony accompanied by technical advisor GoG, Mr. Amit P Dharva. AARAMBH is a wonderful amalgamation of 12 Events, including a plethora of Technical and Non-Technical events such as quizzes, case study events, extempore, Bidding events, a Perfume making workshop, Box Cricket tournament, etc. It hosted students from over 20 universities all over the country including from the states of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Odisha etc. The competition also had International students participating from the National University of Singapore for the E-Sports event.
Event 1 : Perfume Making Workshop : Aromatize
Aromatize is a perfume making workshop organized by the Chemical Engineering Students’ Association (ChESA) under AARAMBH : The New Beginning. It took place on the 17th March 2023 and attracted participants from all across India, including states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. The workshop aimed to provide hands-on experience in creating unique fragrances using essential oils, and students learned the techniques and ingredients used in the perfume industry. Aromatize proved to be a successful event for budding perfumers and fragrance enthusiasts alike.
Event 2 : Photography Competition : Pixxilence
Pixxilence is a photography competition organized by the Chemical Engineering Students’ Association (ChESA) under AARAMBH : The New Beginning. It took place on the 17th and 18th March 2023 and attracted participants from all across India, including states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. The competition aimed to raise awareness about the importance of nature and to identify the photography skills of students. Participants had to capture the beauty of nature in their photographs and showcase their creativity and technical proficiency in photography. Pixxilence proved to be a successful event for budding photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Event 3 : Case Study Competition : Think School
Think School is a case study competition organized by the Chemical Engineering Students’ Association (ChESA) under AARAMBH : The New Beginning. It took place on the 18th March 2023 and attracted participants from all across India, including states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. The competition aimed to provide students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills to real-world scenarios. Participants had to analyze and present solutions to complex case studies related to chemical engineering. Think School proved to be a successful event for students to enhance their critical thinking and analytical skills.
Event 4 : Extempore Competition : Eloquent Expression
Eloquent Expression is an extempore competition organized by the Chemical Engineering Students’ Association (ChESA) under AARAMBH : The New Beginning. It took place on the 18th March 2023 and attracted participants from all across India, including states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. The competition aimed to test the speaking skills of students and their ability to think on their feet. Participants had to speak on a given topic without any prior preparation, and were judged based on their clarity of thought, coherence, and overall delivery. Eloquent Expression proved to be a successful event for students to showcase their public speaking skills and ability to communicate effectively.
Event 5 : Chemical Car Racing Competition : Road Rash
Road Rash is a chemical car racing competition organized by the Chemical Engineering Students’ Association (ChESA) under AARAMB H : The New Beginning. It took place on the 18th March 2023 and attracted participants from all across India, including states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. The competition aimed to challenge students to design and build a chemical-powered car that can travel a specified distance in the shortest possible time. Participants had to use their knowledge of chemical reactions and materials science to construct a car that was both efficient and fast. Road Rash proved to be a successful event for students to apply their engineering skills and creativity to real-world problems.
Event 6 : Musical Evening : Music Concert
The Chemical Engineering Students’ Association (ChESA) under the department of Chemical Engineering organized a musical evening on the 18th March 2023 for its members, faculties of the Chemical Department, and their family members. The event featured the iconic star Ankit Mewada and his team, who performed from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The musical evening aimed to provide a platform for the members and their families to relax and enjoy some quality music after a busy event AARAMBH : The New Beginning. The event proved to be a successful one, with everyone grooving to the beats and having a great time.
Event 7 : Sports Activity : Box Cricket & Football
The Chemical Engineering Students’ Association (ChESA) under AARAMBH : The New Beginning organized a Box Cricket and Inter-Institute Football Competition on the 17th & 18th March 2023. Students from various states across India, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, participated in the event. The aim of the competition was to encourage sportsmanship and physical activity among the students. The event provided a platform for the students to showcase their skills and talents in both cricket and football. It was a fun-filled event that helped promote a healthy and active lifestyle among the students.
Event 8 : E-Sport : Valorant
The E-Sports tournament of Valorant was one of the key non technical tournaments organized under AARAMBH: The New Beginning from 15th-18th March, 2023 which saw International Participants competing for a coveted prize for the winner’s spot. This event ensured that participants are able to experience the fun, thrill and excitement of an International University Fest along with several other technical and non-technical events.
Event 9 : Bidding Event : Dare-To-Bid
Dare to bid was an auction styled bidding event inspired by the iconic International Entrepreneurship Show, The Shark Tank whereby participants in Teams of 3 each, engaged in an intense bidding battle for essential commodities and had to negotiate with the buyers of various Top companies to gain a maximum profit and win the event. The event was organized on 17th of March, 2023 under the aegis of AARAMBH: The New Beginning.
Event 10 : Technical Quiz : Quizzical Karma
Quizzical Karma was a signature technical event organized on 16th and 17th March, 2023 organised under the aegis of AARAMBH: The New Beginning, which was held in 3 rounds to screen out participants as the event progressed. It covered various topics from the technical domain and saw participation from more than 100 students from Universities all over the State. It served as a key technical indicator which aligned with the vision of Industrial Revolution 4.0 taken up the students of ChESA.
In this event the participants were supposed to collect 11 elements by answering the questions provided as a clue. These elements were located at various location in Nirma University. In the map, each location has a number marked against it. Using the answer of the numerical puzzle and the map, the team which collects all the 11 elements within least duration was awarded.
In this event, the competitors had to put the theoretical concepts into practical use. The participants were supposed to make soap. Participants were advised to make soap with minimum chemicals and natural products like color, fragrance, additives etc.
In this event, the team members were asked to present the poster on current trends. It consisted of two rounds. The first round was abstract submission round followed by second round poster presentation.
The event was based on the well-known game “Snake and Ladders” with a bit of twist. Firstly, a question was asked to each participant and then if the answer was correct then one chance was given to him/her to throw a dice. Then the participant moved forward to the number that appear on the dice. If the participant failed to answer the question, then he was sent back by one step.
Each team was asked to make a salt water battery with the help of materials provided. There were two rounds, the first round was to build a battery with the specified conductance / potential. In the second round, the participants were asked to make a battery with the highest potential in the given time. Each battery was then tested with LEDs.
On November 5, 2022, a technical research-oriented event was organized under the aegis of ChESA, IIChE students’ chapter, board 2022-23 and UG Student Research cell, Institute of Technology, Nirma University. The event, called “CHEMERGENCE-2022” saw participants present review papers & posters on various technical tracks in teams of 2 which was judged by an expert panel comprising of senior professors of various institutes. All the winners in their respective tracks were felicitated by the Department of Chemical Engineering, IT-NU.
