Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 11: Innovation goes beyond machines and models; it is driven by imagination and curiosity. Reaffirming its commitment to future-ready education, Manipal School, in collaboration with Dream Kit, hosted the RoboWar + Innovation Challenge 2026 for students of grades VI to VIII at the Marena Sports Complex, Attavar, on February 7. The event brought together budding technologists and creative thinkers, providing a dynamic platform to explore robotics, smart technology, and problem-solving skills.
Adding great significance to the occasion, the event was graced by Vishaan Santosh Anchan, an esteemed alumnus of Manipal School, as the chief guest. He was a part of the team that engineered AT-15 UAV systems that was showcased at the Republic Day Parade, 2026.
Currently serving as a UAV systems engineer involved in high-altitude drone platforms deployed with the Indian Army, he inspired students through his journey from school corridors to cutting-edge defence technology and encouraged them to remain curious, fearless, and open to trial and error as the foundation of innovation. The programme was further honoured by the presence of Ramkishore K, co-founder of DTI Labz, PTA vice president Sunita Furtado, and the heads of Manipal School principal Srilata Alva, vice principal Shilpa Moger, and headmistress Sapna Shetty whose support added great value to the event.
The event began with an exciting RC Airplane Show, which immediately captured the attention of students. They witnessed a drone taking off, hovering steadily in the sky, and responding accurately to remote controls. This was followed by an RC airplane display, where the aircraft showcased was a replica of the F-22 Raptor fighter jet. The plane performed aerial manoeuvres and formations in the sky, creating great excitement and curiosity among the students.
Following this, the innovation project exhibition was conducted, where students showcased projects based on real-life problem-solving. Through simple case studies and interactions with professionals such as security guards, teachers, and bus drivers, students identified everyday challenges and proposed innovative solutions, highlighting their creativity, empathy, and ability to apply classroom learning to real-world situations.
The main highlight of the event was RoboWar, a hands-on robotics competition that encouraged teamwork and practical learning. Students designed and built remote-controlled robot cars using micro:bit controllers, motor drivers, DC motors, wheels, batteries, and supporting electronic accessories. Each robot had a balloon attached, representing the robot’s life. The objective was to safeguard the balloon while crossing obstacles and competing in the arena to burst opponents’ balloons promoting problem-solving, strategy, and engineering skills.
In the RoboWar event, the winners were Rion Manuel Pinto, Ninaad Bhandary and Mohammed Faiz Khan of grade 8, while the runners-up were Siddanth Bhargava, Mishal Fathima and Yazdan of grade 6. In the innovation challenge, Zaid Abdul Rahman Naushad and Lina Fathima of grade 6, along with Raihanath Rizeen Aboobakkar of grade VIII, secured first place for their project titled ‘School Bus Safety and Alert System.’ The runners-up were Fakruddin Sinan, G B Ekaksh and Riyaansh AC, all from grade 6, for their project ‘RFID Access Control.’
The event concluded on a high note, leaving students inspired, motivated, and eager to explore the world of technology and innovation further. Overall, it stood as a proud testament to Manipal School’s commitment to nurturing curiosity, innovation, and future-ready learners.