Figure : Exhibition of ITS Students’ Innovations and Projects at Aloft Surabaya Pakuwon City
Surabaya, F-ELECTICS – In an era characterized by rapid technological advancement, innovation has become one of the key drivers in addressing global challenges. As a higher education institution committed to developing outstanding and innovative human resources, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) continuously introduces programs that bridge academia and society. One such initiative was the ITS Innovation Experience 2026, held from May 22–24, 2026, at Aloft Surabaya Pakuwon City. Carrying the theme “Where Ideas Begin,” the event served as a collaborative platform that brought together education, technology, creativity, and industry in an inspiring and immersive experience.
ITS Innovation Experience 2026 was more than just an educational exhibition. It was designed as a platform where visitors could explore the vast opportunities, innovations, and academic excellence offered by ITS. The event provided participants with hands-on experiences in discovering university life, emerging technologies, and future-ready skills. By combining an education fair, workshops, coaching clinics, academic consultations, and entertainment programs, ITS successfully created a learning environment that was both engaging and meaningful.
From the very first day, the event attracted hundreds of visitors from diverse backgrounds, including senior high school and vocational school students, university students, teachers, parents, and members of the general public. The strong public interest reflected the growing demand for higher education information and the need to keep pace with the rapidly evolving technological landscape. For prospective students, the event offered valuable insights into campus life and the academic opportunities available after graduating from high school.
One of the event’s main attractions was the ITS Education Fair (Edufair). Through this program, visitors were able to obtain comprehensive information about the faculties and study programs offered by ITS. Participants engaged directly with students and departmental representatives to learn about curricula, academic activities, student organizations, research opportunities, and career prospects. Compared to online resources, the Edufair provided a more interactive and comprehensive way for prospective students to explore their future academic pathways.
In addition to showcasing academic programs, ITS also provided an admissions consultation service, allowing visitors to gain a clearer understanding of the university’s admission pathways. Many participants took advantage of this opportunity to inquire about application requirements, strategies for selecting suitable study programs, and tips for preparing for university entrance examinations. The face-to-face consultation enabled visitors to receive reliable and detailed information, helping them prepare more effectively for higher education.
The scholarship consultation service also became one of the most visited sessions throughout the event. Participants received information about various financial aid opportunities provided by ITS and its partner institutions. They learned about eligibility requirements, application procedures, and practical tips for securing scholarships. This initiative reflected ITS’s commitment to expanding access to higher education by supporting students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Beyond academic information sessions, ITS Innovation Experience 2026 featured a wide range of workshops designed to enhance participants’ practical skills. Various topics aligned with the needs of today’s digital generation, including graphic design using Canva, digital content creation, Internet of Things (IoT) development, Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications, and the creative digital industry. Through interactive and hands-on learning approaches, participants not only gained theoretical knowledge but also practical experience in applying newly acquired skills.
These workshops demonstrated ITS’s commitment to not only transferring knowledge but also equipping participants with competencies relevant to today’s industrial landscape. As digital transformation continues to reshape various sectors, technological adaptability has become an increasingly essential skill. Therefore, the workshops served as an important platform for broadening participants’ perspectives while strengthening their future competitiveness.
Complementing the workshops, the event also hosted a series of talk shows and coaching clinics featuring experienced speakers from diverse professional backgrounds. These sessions offered valuable insights into university life, career development, workplace expectations, and personal experiences in overcoming professional challenges. Interactive discussions encouraged participants to engage directly with the speakers, allowing them to gain new perspectives and inspiration for their future educational and career journeys.
Another highlight of the event was the faculty and innovation exhibition area, where visitors explored displays featuring academic programs, research activities, student achievements, and flagship innovations developed at ITS. Visitors enthusiastically visited each booth to obtain deeper information about their areas of interest. The lively interactions between visitors and students created an engaging atmosphere while reflecting the collaborative spirit that characterizes the ITS academic community.
The exhibition also showcased numerous innovative projects developed by ITS students, demonstrating how technology can provide practical solutions to real-world challenges. From digital technology applications to sustainability-focused innovations, these projects highlighted ITS’s commitment to producing impactful research and innovations that contribute meaningfully to society.
To create a more engaging and inclusive atmosphere, ITS Innovation Experience 2026 also featured various entertainment programs and competitions. One of the most popular activities was the Mobile Legends Tournament, which attracted participants from numerous schools. In addition, a Cosplay Gathering brought together creative communities and added a vibrant dimension to the event. These activities demonstrated that education and innovation can be presented in an enjoyable environment without diminishing their educational value.
The selection of Aloft Surabaya Pakuwon City as the event venue further enhanced the overall experience. With its modern facilities and comfortable environment, the venue fostered dynamic interactions among participants, speakers, exhibitors, and organizers. Its versatile spaces effectively accommodated seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and consultation sessions, creating a professional yet welcoming atmosphere for all attendees.
The collaboration between ITS and Aloft Surabaya Pakuwon City also underscored the importance of partnerships between educational institutions and industry in building a sustainable innovation ecosystem. Such collaborations enable academic initiatives to reach broader audiences while opening opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships. Strong connections between academia and industry play a crucial role in generating innovations that address contemporary societal needs.
Overall, ITS Innovation Experience 2026 proved to be far more than a conventional education exhibition. It became a vibrant meeting point where ideas, creativity, technology, and collaboration converged. Through its diverse range of programs, participants not only gained valuable information about higher education but also found inspiration to continue learning, growing, and innovating. In line with its theme, “Where Ideas Begin,” the event marked the starting point for new ideas that are expected to evolve into impactful innovations and solutions benefiting society in the future.
The successful implementation of ITS Innovation Experience 2026 reflects the increasing enthusiasm of younger generations toward education, technology, and innovation. By delivering an educational, interactive, and inspiring experience, ITS once again reaffirmed its role not only as a producer of highly qualified graduates but also as a driving force behind innovations that contribute to national development. It is hoped that similar events will continue to be held in the coming years with even broader participation, enabling more people to benefit from the innovation ecosystem fostered by ITS.