Dr. Shishir Kolathaya, co-founder of Strider Robotics and IISc professor, said the energy of Gen Z and Gen Alpha can be channelled into building solutions the world has never seen, given the right direction and mentorship. He made the remarks in an exclusive interview with Startup Pedia, referencing recent Gen Z-led protests at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar over exam paper leaks and unemployment as signs of a generation vocal about accountability. Kolathaya said academia is shifting from research and teaching to addressing real-world and industry needs by setting up government-funded incubation centres. These centres help students and researchers turn lab work into startups and products, bridging academic research and real-world applications. He noted that with wider exposure to global technology and access to AI tools, Gen Z and Gen Alpha students show strong interest in areas such as physical AI and quantum technology. The success of Indian deep-tech startups, particularly in aerospace and defence, has also inspired more students to explore these fields. Kolathaya emphasised that with the right mentorship, young innovators can turn their energy into real deep-tech innovations, creating new opportunities in defence and aerospace technology.