Two-day conference brings together researchers, academicians and industry experts to discuss intelligent systems and sustainable innovation
GANDHINAGAR, GUJARAT | 09th OCTOBER 2026 | Karnavati University inaugurated the International Conference on Converging Intelligence 2026 (CICON 2026) on Friday, bringing together researchers, academicians, designers and industry professionals to discuss the role of emerging technologies and next-generation design in building a sustainable future.
Being held on October 9 and 10 at Karnavati University, the conference is organised around the theme ‘Converging Intelligence: Next-Gen Design and Technology for a Sustainable Future’. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Gujarat Section is the conference’s technical co-sponsor.
P. Bharathi, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, was the chief guest on the occasion. The guests of honour were Dr. Chirag Paunwala, Chair of IEEE Gujarat Section, Dr. Shailesh Sakri, Director and DSP Engineering Manager at Harman International along with Shri Ritesh Hada, President, Karnavati University.
The conference aims to provide a multidisciplinary platform for the exchange of research and ideas across fields such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things, blockchain, smart materials, human-centred design and the circular economy. Its focus is on how these areas can work together to support sustainability, inclusivity and responsible technological development.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Kusum Agarwal, Dean of Academics at Karnavati University, said, “CICON 2026 is a platform for bringing together design and technology, encouraging researchers and professionals to look beyond individual disciplines and explore how their combined potential can address real-world challenges. The focus is on developing solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also inclusive and centred on human needs.”
Dr. Chirag Paunwala, Chair of IEEE Gujarat Section, said, “The convergence of intelligent systems and design is opening up new possibilities. Platforms such as CICON enable academia and industry to exchange knowledge, discuss emerging challenges and explore applications of new technologies. Such collaboration is important for advancing innovation and translating research into practical applications.”
The conference includes keynote sessions by Dr. Vikas Singh Bhadoria, Professor and Head of the Department of Electrical Engineering at Assam Skill University; Prof. (Dr.) Gaurav Harit, Genpact Chair Professor and Head of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Jodhpur; and Dr. Maniklal Das, Professor of Computer Science at Dhirubhai Ambani University, Gandhinagar.
Its technical tracks cover AI and data science, human-centred design, cybersecurity, computing and communication technologies, smart systems, healthcare, mobility and transportation, and the cultural, social and ethical dimensions of design technology.
The event aims to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and promote the development of technologies that address emerging societal and environmental challenges.
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