Makers’ Fete 2025 Celebrates Innovation and Community Spirit

The Makers’ Fete 2025 concluded on December 12, 2025, at the CFAL campus in Mangaluru, attracting nearly 1,500 participants from schools and colleges across Mangaluru and Udupi. This vibrant event showcased an inspiring array of technical, scientific, and artistic activities, highlighting the creativity and collaboration of students. Distinguished guests, including Dr. Ramachandra Hebbar, General Manager at the Regional Remote Sensing Centre – South of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and Dr. Santhosh Kumar, Project Director of the District Urban Development Cell in Dakshina Kannada, attended the event, emphasizing its significance in promoting innovation and education.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

A notable aspect of the inauguration was a tree plantation ceremony, reinforcing CFAL’s dedication to sustainability. Dr. Ramachandra Hebbar, along with Trustee Vijay Moras and school principals Purnima Prabhu and Dr. Smitha Hegde, participated in planting saplings, symbolizing a collective commitment to environmental responsibility. The event also recognized the efforts of Amara tree plantation volunteers for their ongoing ecological conservation initiatives. Dr. Rashmi presented a detailed report on these efforts, acknowledging the team’s dedication to environmental stewardship.

Reflecting on the growth of the Makers’ Fete, Vijay Moras noted its evolution from a small gathering of approximately 100 students to a large-scale event that fosters curiosity-driven learning. He emphasized the importance of hands-on experimentation and theoretical discourse in education, likening it to the humble beginnings of ISRO, where innovation stems from creative spaces filled with trial and error. Moras thanked the community, including dignitaries, teachers, students, and parents, for nurturing an environment that encourages inquiry and problem-solving.

Inspiring Young Minds in Science

Dr. Ramachandra Hebbar highlighted the role of youth in India’s space endeavors, noting that ideas and inspiration increasingly emerge from students. He shared insights into ISRO’s journey from early challenges to becoming one of the world’s leading space agencies, attributing its success to the dedication of ordinary scientists. Encouraging students to pursue careers in science, research, and space, he noted the vast opportunities available following the liberalization of India’s space sector and the growth of start-ups.

Dr. Santhosh Kumar commended CFAL for embedding STEM education within its core curriculum, recognizing the campus and its students for their spirit of inquiry and innovation. He urged teachers to support students in their entrepreneurial pursuits, assuring them of full backing from the administrative system. His words resonated with the audience, celebrating the creativity and enthusiasm of all participating students.

The event also featured an impressive display of innovation, including ‘Milestone Marco,’ a robot developed by a team of young tech enthusiasts at the CFAL Makerspace. This team has achieved a remarkable milestone by qualifying for the Battle of Bots Grand Finale in Russia, placing them among the top teams globally and showcasing India’s talent on the international stage.

Throughout the day, the Makers’ Fete offered diverse events, from STEM challenges to cultural performances, creating a lively atmosphere of learning and enjoyment. Parents and students actively contributed by setting up stalls, further enriching the experience. Performances by CFAL High School and PU College students garnered significant appreciation from attendees, showcasing the cultural richness of the community.

With strong community involvement and a focus on innovation, Makers’ Fete 2025 was a resounding success. The event encapsulated CFAL’s mission to nurture a sense of curiosity, creativity, and social responsibility among young learners. For further information, visit www.cfalindia.com or contact +91 99005 20233.