Inspiring young minds at Vidnyan Dhara 2026 – How Robots and Humans Team Up: Simulation in the Era of Industry 5.0”

As part of Vidnyan Dhara 2026, a mega science outreach initiative by the Goa State Higher Education Council and the Directorate of Higher Education, Dr. Suraj Marathe, Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department, Don Bosco College of Engineering, delivered an insightful talk on “How Robots and Humans Team Up: Simulation in the Era of Industry 5.0” on 18th February 2026 at Government High School, Zambaulim, Sanguem

The session commenced with the screening of a Vidnyan Dhara 2025 video, through which Dr. Marathe explained the objectives of the Vidnyan Dhara initiative, emphasizing its role in promoting innovation, technology awareness, and scientific temper among young learners. Dr. Marathe then introduced the concept of collaborative robots (cobots) and explained how humans and robots can work together safely and efficiently. He discussed various real-life applications of robots with the help of visuals, highlighting their use in manufacturing, healthcare, construction, space exploration, and everyday life. The concept of Simulation was explained in detail using simple and relatable examples. Dr. Marathe demonstrated how simulation is applied in solving mathematical word problems, manufacturing industries, construction planning, gaming, robotics, and virtual testing.

The lecture also covered the Industrial Revolutions, with special emphasis on Industry 5.0. Dr. Marathe explained the shift from automation-driven systems to human-centric, sustainable, and collaborative technologies. In the concluding segment, he highlighted the role of students in Industry 5.0, encouraging them to develop essential skills such as creativity, problem-solving, ethical thinking, and technological awareness.