MicroMaze 2.0 Workshop 1
July 20, 2025 · 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM @ Colombo 3, 435 Galle Rd, Colombo 3
Description
Workshop 1 of MicroMaze 2.0, organized by the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society of IIT, kicked off the technical journey of this year’s competition with an engaging and insightful session titled “The Impact of AI and Robotics on the Industry.” The workshop served as the foundational step for participants, introducing them to the real-world relevance and growing influence of intelligent systems across industries. The session was graced by two distinguished speakers Ajith Wijerathna, Senior Engineering Manager and Digital Transformer at Michelin Lanka, and Ishara Neranjana, Machine Learning Engineer at Zone24x7. Mr. Ajith Wijerathna opened the discussion by shedding light on how digital transformation, automation, and AI are reshaping industrial operations, especially in manufacturing. Drawing from over a decade of leadership at Michelin, he provided deep insights into how modern factories are evolving with smart systems, predictive maintenance, and Industry 4.0 integration. He also addressed the broader implications on the workforce and the critical need for adaptability and upskilling in this rapidly shifting landscape. Following this, Mr. Ishara Neranjana presented a data-driven perspective, highlighting how machine learning and deep learning are being embedded into core business solutions to optimize performance and decision-making. With practical examples and applications from his role at Zone24x7, he emphasized how AI technologies are no longer just futuristic concepts, but essential tools that are actively driving innovation across domains. The session was moderated smoothly with opening remarks by Leyana Dabare, Secretary of IEEE RAS, who welcomed participants and emphasized the spirit of innovation that MicroMaze represents. Participants also had the opportunity to interact with the speakers during a live Q&A segment, allowing for deeper clarification and discussion on how these technologies could be applied in their own micromouse journey. This workshop not only offered a comprehensive overview of current trends in AI and robotics but also set the tone for the workshops to follow equipping participants with the knowledge and motivation to dive into their projects with confidence and purpose.
Agenda
2:00pm - 2:30pm - Registration 2:30pm - 2:45pm - Opening remarks 2:45pm - 4:00pm - Session 1 4:00pm - 4:30pm - Refreshments 4:30pm - 6:00pm - Session 2