The primary mission of ACM ROCS 2025 was to ignite a passion for research among undergraduate students by exposing them to frontier areas of Computer Science and demonstrating the tangible impact of academic research. The event aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical classroom learning and practical research environments, encouraging students to adopt innovative mindsets to address global technological challenges.
The Institute of Engineering & Management (IEM), Kolkata, in collaboration with ACM India, proudly hosted the inaugural Research Opportunities in Computer Science (ROCS) 2025 workshop on August 2, 2025, at the IEM Management House, Salt Lake, Kolkata. This landmark event marked the first-ever ACM ROCS in Eastern India, representing a significant step toward fostering a research-driven academic culture in the region. With over 200 registrations from more than 30 colleges, alongside distinguished faculty and researchers, the workshop served as a catalyst for inspiring young technologists to explore cutting-edge advancements in Computer Science and their real-world applications.
The workshop introduced participants to advanced domains such as Algorithm Design, Responsible AI, Quantum Computing, Wireless Communication (5G and beyond), and Cryptology. These topics were carefully selected to balance theoretical foundations with applied research, providing a comprehensive learning experience. Each session was led by eminent researchers who offered insights into current trends, challenges, and opportunities in these fields.
By engaging undergraduates early in their academic journey, the workshop encouraged them to think beyond textbooks and assignments. The sessions introduced them to research methodologies, problem-solving approaches, and open challenges in Computer Science, inspiring participants to consider postgraduate studies, research internships, and doctoral pursuits.
The curated selection of topics emphasized how Computer Science integrates with other domains like data privacy, ethics, bio-computation, and next-generation networking. This encouraged students to look at problems from a cross-disciplinary perspective, an essential skill in today’s interconnected research environment.
The event facilitated one-on-one student interactions with professors and scientists from IIT Kharagpur, ISI Kolkata, and University of Calcutta. The Ask Me Anything (AMA) session ensured that students could clarify doubts about research careers, industry collaboration, and higher studies.
ROCS 2025 was not limited to IEM students—it welcomed participation from 30+ colleges across Eastern India, thereby sowing the seeds of a regional research community. This collaborative spirit is expected to foster joint projects, knowledge sharing, and academic-industry tie-ups in the years ahead.
A key focus was to instill a sense of ethical responsibility in students. Sessions like Responsible AI underscored the importance of fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in technological innovation, preparing participants to become conscientious technologists.
By hosting the first ACM ROCS in Eastern India, IEM Kolkata solidified its reputation as a hub for research- driven education. The event elevated the institute’s standing within academic and professional communities while reinforcing ACM India’s commitment to nurturing research talent nationwide.
Beyond academic pursuits, ROCS 2025 emphasized social impact through a food distribution drive in collaboration with the New Sun Foundation NGO. This initiative, which served over 150 underprivileged individuals, highlighted the importance of pairing intellectual growth with compassion and community service.
