Bengaluru, November 17, 2025: The Mphasis F1 Foundation, in partnership with Plaksha University, concluded the two-day ‘TrackShift Innovation Challenge’, aimed at encouraging students to develop open-source, industry-focused technology solutions. Held on November 15–16 at the Plaksha University campus, the event brought together 150 students from 50 teams representing institutions across India.
The challenge encouraged STEM students to apply emerging technologies—such as AI, data science and simulation—to create practical solutions addressing mobility, infrastructure and manufacturing challenges. The initiative draws inspiration from Mphasis' role as the Official Digital Partner of the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team.
Veda Iyer, Global Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Hyperscalers & Strategic Partnerships, Mphasis, said, “The TrackShift Innovation Challenge reflects Mphasis Foundation’s vision to advance technology education, nurture young innovators, and promote inclusive pathways in STEM. By nurturing problem-solving and innovation in students, we are building a future-ready, inclusive talent ecosystem that serves both community and industry needs.”
Gary Foote, CIO of the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, added, “It is inspiring to see Indian students create open tools for global industries, reflecting the true potential of collaborative innovation. By adopting an open-source model, the challenge has ensured that solutions shaped through motorsport-grade rigour can be adapted and applied to real-world needs at scale.”
Prof. Rudra Pratap, Vice Chancellor of Plaksha University, said, “This collaboration exemplifies our vision of applied, experiential education where students move beyond ideation to implementation. Through our partnership with Mphasis F1 Foundation, we are creating a living repository of applied innovation that is scalable and inclusive.”
The competition attracted over 1,800 applications nationwide, with 50 shortlisted teams working on three problem statements: a Visual Difference Engine, Smart File Transfer System and Competitive Mobility Simulator. The top three teams received cash prizes of ₹1,00,000, ₹50,000 and ₹25,000, respectively, along with internship opportunities at Mphasis.
To further strengthen learning outcomes, select participants will also visit the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team facility in the United Kingdom for an experiential technology immersion.
The TrackShift initiative will continue to support prototype development, piloting opportunities and student-led solutions, forming an open repository of applied innovations. The program complements ongoing collaborations between Mphasis F1 Foundation and Plaksha University, including support for inclusive infrastructure, research facilities and STEM scholarships.
The initiative also aligns with Mphasis Foundation’s broader CSR efforts, including the Girls and Women in STEM (GWiST) program, which aims to empower over 1,500 women in technology and entrepreneurship over the next four years.
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