COFAS 2026: Day 3 Updates
The third day of the International Computer Olympiad, COFAS 2026, held on Thursday, 15th October 2026, brought together students from Thailand, Uganda, Bangladesh, Nepal and various states of India to showcase their technological skills, critical thinking and creativity while exploring the importance of human values in a digital world. The day featured intellectual debates, artistic digital creations, video-editing challenges, live choreography and cultural immersion through a sightseeing tour of Lucknow.
Prof. Dr Puneet Mishra, CMS alumnus from Rajendra Nagar Campus I; Head of the Department of Computer Science at the University of Lucknow; and Director of the APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Innovation, joined the participants as the Chief Guest. Inspiring the young participants, he remarked, “You are not just participants of an international Olympiad; you are the architects of tomorrow’s digital world.” He also shared an engaging account of the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI).
Subsequently, the Guest of Honour, Mr Shahzad Alam, Consultant – JYEP & GCE, CMS Innovation Wing, traced the evolution of technology from paper-based systems to artificial intelligence. Raising a pertinent question about the need for laws governing the judicious use of technology, he highlighted the importance of ethical safeguards in an increasingly digital world.
Following his address, students of the host campus conducted a World Parliament on the agenda ‘Technological Progress Is Meaningful Only When Guided by Wisdom, Responsibility and Compassion’. The discussion encouraged students to reflect on the ethical use of technology and the importance of ensuring that innovation serves humanity.
Exploring Technology through Different Lenses
During the Confabular (Debate) competition, students presented well-reasoned arguments on unequal access to technology, digital literacy and inclusive development. The competition encouraged critical thinking, effective communication and informed discussion on the challenges of an increasingly digital world.
At Google to Doodle, students transformed topics announced on the spot into colourful, imaginative digital designs. The competition showcased their computer proficiency, originality and ability to communicate ideas visually.
Montage (Poster Making) provided a platform for students to highlight social concerns through striking designs, catchy titles and meaningful captions. Their posters demonstrated how visual communication can raise awareness and inspire positive change.
The afternoon’s highlight, Costek (Choreography), explored the theme ‘Wired but Breathing’. Through a creative blend of dance, acting and storytelling, participating teams portrayed the relationship between technology and human emotions. Synchronised movements, expressive gestures and imaginative performances conveyed a compelling message: even as technology transforms our lives, empathy, creativity and meaningful human connections remain essential. The competition also celebrated teamwork and artistic expression.
Following the indoor competitions, the contingents departed for a tour of Lucknow, exploring its historic landmarks and heritage sites before returning to the campus for dinner.
Through thought-provoking debates, creative digital design, dynamic group performances and an engaging city tour, participants experienced both technical enrichment and opportunities to forge strong friendships, building anticipation for the valedictory ceremony the following day.
