Description

Event Overview: Mora Foresight 1.0, an ambitious educational initiative, unfolded from April to August 2023, aimed at transforming young minds into future tech leaders. Organized by the dedicated IEEE Student Branch at the University of Moratuwa, in collaboration with IEEE IES, PES, WIE, RAS, and CS student branch chapters, the event was a vibrant amalgamation of innovation, education, and inspiration. As the IES student branch chapter, we handled the program committee contributing to the blue print of the event. Event Journey: 1. Awareness Sessions (5th May - 10th May, 2023): The event commenced with a series of enlightening awareness sessions held across diverse school districts in Sri Lanka. These sessions served as the beacon, illuminating the path for students, teachers, and parents about the vast opportunities that awaited them in the world of technology and entrepreneurship. 2. Registrations: The enthusiastic response surpassed expectations, with over 1000 students from 350+ schools eagerly enrolling for the program. Their diverse backgrounds and passions set the stage for a vibrant learning environment. 3. First Online Examination: (15th June, 2023) The selection process commenced with a rigorous online examination, meticulously designed to assess not only the students' mathematical prowess and scientific knowledge but also their analytical and problemsolving abilities. This phase ensured that the brightest minds were identified for the subsequent rounds. 400 student were selected for the second round. 4. Second Examination (4th July, 2023): The chosen 400 students converged at the prestigious University of Moratuwa for a physically held examination. Again, the contestants were tested upon scientific, IQ and programming questions. 65 students were selected based on this exam while 15 were selected based on the extracurricular activities, innovations they have done throughout their school career. This event was not just a test; it was an immersive experience, offering the students a glimpse into the world of higher education and innovation. The campus tour kindled their aspirations, making them realize the endless possibilities within their grasp. 5. Final Camp (3-day Resident Training Camp | 31st August – 2 nd September 2023): The climax of Mora Foresight 1.0 unfolded in the form of a three-day residential training camp. Each day was meticulously planned to provide comprehensive exposure to various facets of technology and entrepreneurship. Day 1 - Programming: The first day delved deep into the realms of programming. Industry leaders from WSO2 led engaging sessions on app development, competitive programming, and cloud computing. The day culminated in a spirited competition that not only tested the students' knowledge but also their collaborative spirit. The night was abuzz with team-building activities, fostering friendships that would last a lifetime. Day 2 - Robotics: Day two was dedicated to robotics, a field where imagination meets innovation. Experts from RoboticGen captivated the audience with sessions on robotics fundamentals, sensors, actuators, and micro-mouse programming. The day's highlight was a thrilling robotics competition that showcased the students' ingenuity. The evening transformed into a musical night, allowing the participants to unwind and celebrate their accomplishments. Day 3 - Entrepreneurship: The final day was a gateway to the world of entrepreneurship. Visionary entrepreneurs, including Mr. Dhanika Perera, CEO of Helakuru and HelaPay, and Mr. Heminda Jayaweera, a respected serial entrepreneur in Sri Lanka, shared their insights. The People's Bank of Sri Lanka contributed a valuable session, emphasizing financial literacy and strategic planning. The event concluded with a grand closing ceremony, where the students were not just participants but emerging leaders ready to conquer the future. Partnerships and Collaborations: Mora Foresight 1.0 was made possible through strategic collaborations with esteemed partners. National Innovation Agent (NIA), WSO2, PickMe, Creative Software, Magicbit, RoboticGen, and PERPOVA extended their support, providing resources, mentorship, and invaluable industry insights. TV Derana, as the media partner, ensured that the event's impact reverberated across the nation. Citrus Waskaduwa, the hospitality partner, and People's Bank, Sri Lanka, the banking partner, played crucial roles in ensuring the event's seamless execution. Post-Event Initiatives: The success of Mora Foresight 1.0 laid the foundation for a lasting legacy. In its aftermath, the Foresight Academy emerged as a beacon of continued learning and mentorship. This virtual platform served as a hub, connecting the participants with seasoned professionals, workshops, and resources. The academy's mission was not just to educate but to inspire, fostering a community of tech enthusiasts and future entrepreneurs.