Fostering Blockchain Innovation in Design, Gaming and Animation Education

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Vinay Kumar

[GENERAL] Email address of main applicant

vinay@aidedu.in

Additional applicants

Raj A S

Dev Dhimmar

Bhaskar Nagendra

Aman Ansari

Komala DS

Gautam Thakur

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

6

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language.

No

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

Yes

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

Konma Upskill for Curriculum development and Konma Labz for research and development

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] If NO, please describe which outputs are not going to be open source. If YES, please write “Project will be fully open source.”

project will be fully open source

[METADATA] Category of proposal

Education

[METADATA] SDG rating

SDG Rating: Our proposal aligns with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including but not limited to:

• Goal 4: Quality Education - By integrating blockchain education into our curriculum, we contribute to providing inclusive and equitable quality education, fostering digital literacy and future-proofing students' skills.
• Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure - Our proposal promotes innovation by leveraging blockchain technology in the design, gaming, and animation sectors, fostering the development of new industry standards and infrastructure.
• Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals - Through collaborations with Cardano ecosystem companies, industry partners, and community-building initiatives, we aim to foster partnerships that accelerate progress towards sustainable development goals.

[IMPACT] Please describe your proposed solution.

Our proposed solution aims to integrate blockchain education into the design, gaming and animation courses offered by the Asian Institute of Design (AID). We recognize the limited integration of blockchain education in these fields, hindering student's exposure to and proficiency in emerging blockchain technologies.

By incorporating blockchain education into our curriculum, we address this problem by providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and contribute to the blockchain revolution. We will develop a comprehensive curriculum that covers the basics of blockchain, smart contracts and decentralized applications, with a specific focus on Cardano.

What sets our solution apart is its direct relevance to the design, gaming and animation industries. We leverage AID's expertise in these fields to ensure that students gain practical experience in developing decentralized applications, smart contracts and digital assets specifically tailored to these industries. By focusing on Cardano, we align our solution with a leading blockchain platform, offering students exposure to real-world use cases and industry best practices.

The beneficiaries of our solution are AID students pursuing design, gaming and animation education. By equipping them with blockchain skills, we empower them to explore new opportunities in the blockchain industry, create innovative applications and contribute to the growth of the Cardano ecosystem. Additionally, our solution benefits the Cardano community by expanding the pool of talented individuals who can drive the adoption and development of Cardano-based projects.

To demonstrate the impact of our solution, we will track key metrics such as the number of students enrolled in blockchain-focused courses, the number of decentralized applications and smart contracts developed by students, the partnerships formed with Cardano communities and startups and the increase in on-chain activity from applications developed by our students. By monitoring these metrics, we can measure the effectiveness of our solution in fostering blockchain innovation and student engagement.

Overall, our proposed solution brings together AID's expertise in design, gaming and animation with blockchain education, creating a unique opportunity for students to gain the necessary skills for the future while contributing to the growth and success of Cardano.

[IMPACT] How does your proposed solution address the challenge and what benefits will this bring to the Cardano ecosystem?

• Increasing Blockchain Education: Our solution contributes to the aim of expanding blockchain education by incorporating comprehensive blockchain curriculum into AID's existing courses. This will ensure that students receive in-depth knowledge and practical skills in blockchain technology.

• Fostering Innovation: By equipping students with blockchain skills, our solution encourages innovation within the design, gaming and animation industries. Students will be empowered to explore new possibilities, develop decentralized applications and create innovative solutions using Cardano's blockchain technology.

• Driving On-Chain Activity: Our solution directly addresses the goal of increasing on-chain activity by enabling students to develop decentralized applications, smart contracts and digital assets on the Cardano platform. As students engage with Cardano's blockchain, it will contribute to the overall on-chain activity within the ecosystem.

The impact of our project goes beyond funding the project team. It brings significant value to the Cardano ecosystem in the following ways:

• Talent Development: Our solution will nurture a pool of skilled professionals who are well-versed in blockchain and Cardano's technology. These individuals will become valuable assets to the Cardano ecosystem, driving innovation, development and adoption of Cardano-based projects.

• Ecosystem Growth: By integrating blockchain education into design, gaming and animation courses, we attract students who may not have previously been exposed to blockchain technology. This increases the potential for more individuals to join the Cardano community, further expanding and strengthening the ecosystem.

• Real-World Use Cases: Through our curriculum and practical experience, students will develop real-world use cases and applications using Cardano's blockchain. This not only showcases the capabilities of Cardano but also adds value to the ecosystem by contributing to the creation of tangible and impactful projects.

Quantifying the impact of our project, we anticipate a significant increase in the number of students enrolled in blockchain-focused courses. We expect a substantial number of decentralized applications, smart contracts and digital assets to be developed by students during the project's timeframe and beyond. These projects will contribute to on-chain activity, usage and transactions within the Cardano ecosystem.

By fostering talent, driving innovation and creating real-world use cases, our project brings valuable growth and strength to the Cardano ecosystem, positioning it as a leader in blockchain education and application development in the design, gaming, and animation sectors.

[IMPACT] How do you intend to measure the success of your project?

We intend to measure the success of our project through the following metrics:

• Enrollment in Blockchain-Focused Courses: We will track the number of students enrolling in our blockchain-focused courses. An increase in enrollment demonstrates the interest and demand for blockchain education within the design, gaming and animation fields.

• Number of Developed Projects: We will measure the number of decentralized applications, smart contracts and digital assets developed by our students. This indicates the level of practical application and hands-on experience gained during the project.

• Partnerships Formed: We will monitor the number of partnerships formed with Cardano communities and startups. Establishing collaborations demonstrates the recognition and engagement of industry players with our project and signifies potential opportunities for students in terms of internships, guest lectures and job placements.

• On-Chain Activity and Usage: We will assess the impact of our project by monitoring the increase in on-chain activity and usage generated by the decentralized applications and digital assets developed by our students. This will include tracking transaction volumes, user interactions and the overall engagement with Cardano's blockchain platform.

• Student Feedback and Opinions: Qualitative measures such as student feedback and opinions will be collected to gauge their satisfaction with the integration of blockchain education. This will provide insights into the perceived value and effectiveness of the project in preparing students for the blockchain industry.

Our project will immediately contribute to increased enrollment in blockchain-focused courses, fostering a stronger foundation of blockchain knowledge within the student community. This will lead to a rise in the number of developed projects, partnerships formed and on-chain activity, showcasing tangible progress within a reasonable timeframe.

In the long term, our project's success will have a lasting impact on Cardano's productivity and growth. As more students graduate with blockchain expertise, they will enter the workforce and contribute to the development of Cardano-based projects, increasing productivity within the ecosystem. The continuous growth of on-chain activity and the expansion of partnerships will further establish Cardano as a leading platform for blockchain innovation in the design, gaming and animation sectors.

[IMPACT] Please describe your plans to share the outputs and results of your project?

We have a comprehensive plan to share the outputs and results of our project to maximize its impact and opportunities:

• Academic Community: We will publish research papers, case studies and articles highlighting the outcomes and insights gained from integrating blockchain education into design, gaming and animation courses. This will contribute to the academic community's understanding of the practical applications of blockchain technology in these fields.

• Industry Engagement: We will actively engage with industry associations, conferences and forums to share our project's outputs and findings. This includes participating in speaking engagements, panel discussions and workshops to disseminate knowledge and foster collaboration with professionals and industry experts.

• Student Showcase Events: We will organize student showcase events where students can present their developed projects and demonstrate the practical applications of blockchain technology in design, gaming and animation. This will provide an opportunity for industry professionals, potential employers and stakeholders to witness the outcomes firsthand.

• Online Platforms and Social Media: We will leverage online platforms, including the AID website, social media channels and dedicated space on Konmahood for AID, to share project updates, results and success stories. This will ensure broad accessibility to the outputs and impact of our project. Click the link to view the space - https://konmahood.konma.io/share/JVtE2vGiPIFI3Fcu?utm_source=manual

• Collaborative Networks: We will actively seek collaborations with other educational institutions, design studios, gaming companies and animation studios to share the knowledge and best practices derived from our project. This will create opportunities for cross-pollination of ideas, joint projects and future collaborations.

Regarding further research and development activities, we will utilize the results generated from the project to inform and inspire future initiatives. The insights gained from the integration of blockchain education will provide a foundation for conducting more in-depth research on specific aspects of blockchain technology, design principles, gaming mechanics and animation techniques. These research activities will help advance the understanding of blockchain applications in the design, gaming and animation industries and facilitate continuous innovation and improvement in the field.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability?

We have a strong capability to deliver our project with high levels of trust and accountability. Our existing capabilities and track record demonstrate why we are best suited to undertake this project and effectively manage funds. Here are the key factors that establish our trustworthiness:

• Expertise in Design, Gaming and Animation: As an established institute specializing in design, gaming and animation education, we possess extensive domain knowledge and experience in these fields. Our expertise enables us to tailor the integration of blockchain education specifically to these industries, ensuring the relevance and quality of the curriculum.

• Experienced Faculty and Staff: We have a dedicated team of experienced faculty and staff members who are well-versed in the design, gaming and animation domains. They bring a wealth of knowledge, ensuring the delivery of high-quality education and mentorship to students.

• Proven Educational Excellence: AID has a strong reputation for providing quality education and has successfully delivered numerous educational programs. Our commitment to academic rigor, student support and professional development has been demonstrated over the years, earning the trust of students, parents and industry partners.

• Financial Management: AID has established robust financial management systems and processes in place. We have a track record of managing funds responsibly, ensuring transparency and accountability in all financial matters. Our financial management practices comply with industry standards and regulations.

• Ethical Standards: AID upholds a strong code of ethics, emphasizing integrity, professionalism and responsible conduct. We prioritize the best interests of our students and stakeholders, maintaining a culture of trust and accountability throughout our institution.

To demonstrate our ability to manage funds properly, we will adhere to the following steps and processes:

• Budgeting and Financial Planning: We will create a detailed budget outlining the allocation of funds for each aspect of the project. This budget will be developed based on thorough research and cost estimations, ensuring that funds are appropriately utilized.

• Accountability and Reporting: We will maintain a clear and transparent system for tracking project expenses and regularly report on the financial status. This will involve providing periodic updates to stakeholders, including Cardano Project Catalyst, to ensure transparency in fund utilization.

• Audit and Compliance: We will adhere to relevant financial regulations and guidelines, conducting regular internal audits to ensure compliance. This ensures that financial management practices are aligned with industry standards and regulations.

• Third-Party Validation: If required, we are open to external audits and verification processes to provide an additional layer of trust and accountability.

By leveraging our capabilities, experience and commitment to trust and accountability, we are well-prepared to deliver this project with utmost professionalism and responsibility, ensuring proper management and utilization of funds.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] What are the main goals for the project and how will you validate if your approach is feasible?

• Goal 1: Integration of Blockchain Education: Successfully integrate blockchain education into the design, gaming and animation courses at the Asian Institute of Design (AID). This includes developing a comprehensive curriculum, setting up a blockchain lab and incorporating practical hands-on experience for students.
• Validation Approach: The achievement of this goal will be measured by the completion and implementation of the blockchain-focused curriculum, the establishment of the blockchain lab and the successful integration of blockchain components into the design, gaming and animation courses at AID.

• Goal 2: Student Engagement and Skill Development: Engage students and foster their skills in blockchain technology, decentralized applications, smart contracts and digital asset development. Provide students with the necessary knowledge and practical experience to navigate and contribute to the blockchain industry.
• Validation Approach: The success of this goal will be validated through qualitative measures such as student feedback, testimonials, and evaluations. We will assess the level of student engagement, their ability to understand and apply blockchain concepts, and their proficiency in developing blockchain-based projects.

• Goal 3: Project Demonstrations and Showcases: Facilitate opportunities for students to showcase their developed projects, decentralized applications, smart contracts, and digital assets. Provide platforms for students to present their work to industry professionals, potential employers, and stakeholders.
• Validation Approach: The achievement of this goal will be measured by organizing student showcase events, where students can present their projects and receive feedback and recognition from industry experts. The number of showcase events conducted and the participation and engagement of industry professionals will serve as validation metrics.

• Goal 4: Industry Partnerships and Collaborations: Establish partnerships with Cardano community, startups, and industry players in the design, gaming, and animation sectors. Facilitate internships, guest lectures, and potential job placements for students, enhancing their industry connections and opportunities.
• Validation Approach: The success of this goal will be demonstrated by the number of partnerships formed with Cardano ecosystem companies, the level of engagement and involvement of industry partners in student activities, and the tangible benefits students gain from these partnerships, such as internships or job placements.

Regarding the technical implementation of our approach, we will follow a phased approach. This will include curriculum development, lab setup, integration of blockchain components into existing courses, and continuous monitoring and improvement based on student feedback. We will leverage the expertise of our faculty, engage industry professionals as guest speakers, and provide access to relevant tools and resources to ensure the effective implementation of the project.

Throughout the project, we will maintain a strong focus on evaluation, feedback collection, and iterative improvement to ensure the feasibility and success of our approach in achieving the stated goals.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] Please provide a detailed breakdown of your project’s milestones and each of the main tasks or activities to reach the milestone plus the expected timeline for the delivery.

Project Milestones:

Milestone 1: Curriculum Development (1-2 month)

• Activities:
• Research and analysis of blockchain concepts and technologies relevant to design, gaming, and animation
• Development of blockchain-focused curriculum and syllabus
• Review and refinement of curriculum based on feedback
• Success Criteria:
• Completion of the blockchain-focused curriculum
• Approval of the curriculum by the AID academic board

Milestone 2: Blockchain Lab Setup (2-3 month)

• Activities:
• Identification and procurement of necessary hardware and software for the lab
• Infrastructure setup and installation of required blockchain development tools
• Testing and configuration of the lab environment
• Success Criteria:
• Fully functional blockchain lab established
• Availability of necessary equipment and tools for students' practical work

Milestone 3: Integration into Existing Courses (3-4 month)

• Activities:
• Identification of suitable courses for integration
• Modification of existing course materials to include blockchain components
• Development of practical assignments and projects for students
• Success Criteria:
• Integration of blockchain components into identified courses
• Updated course materials reflecting blockchain integration

Milestone 4: Industry Partnerships (1-6 month)

• Activities:
• Identification and outreach to Cardano communities and blockchain startups
• Negotiation and establishment of partnerships and collaboration agreements
• Planning and organization of guest lectures and internships
• Success Criteria:
• Signed partnership agreements with Cardano ecosystem companies
• Arrangement of guest lectures and internship opportunities for students

Milestone 5: Student Showcase Events (4-6month)

• Activities:
• Planning and coordination of student showcase events
• Preparation and presentation of student projects and accomplishments
• Success Criteria:
• Successful organization of student showcase events
• Active participation and positive feedback from industry professionals

Overall Project Management Approach:

• The project will be managed by a dedicated project team led by a project manager. Regular team meetings will be held to ensure effective communication and coordination.
• A project schedule and timeline will be created, clearly outlining the tasks, responsibilities, and milestones to be achieved.
• Progress will be monitored regularly, and any challenges or issues will be addressed promptly through effective problem-solving and decision-making processes.
• Stakeholder engagement and communication will be prioritized, ensuring that all relevant parties are informed and involved in the project's progress.
• Feedback collection mechanisms will be implemented to gather input from students, faculty, and industry partners, allowing for continuous improvement and refinement of the project's implementation.
• Regular reporting and documentation will be conducted to track progress, milestones achieved, and budget utilization.

A work tracking board is created on Notion for the project. Click link to view board - https://konmaio.notion.site/Integration-of-Blockchain-Technology-for-Enhanced-Collaboration-and-Security-and-Revolutionizing-the-12465424d1064185ab8873c4f29f93ab?pvs=4

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] Please describe the deliverables, outputs and intended outcomes of each milestone.

Milestone 1: Curriculum Development and Approval

Deliverables:

• Comprehensive blockchain curriculum for design, gaming, and animation courses
• Updated course materials with integrated blockchain content
• Documentation of curriculum development process and resources

Outputs:

• Approved blockchain curriculum ready for implementation
• Updated course materials reflecting integration of blockchain topics

Intended Outcomes:

• Equipped faculty with relevant blockchain knowledge and teaching materials
• Enhanced curriculum that provides students with a solid foundation in blockchain technology
• Increased awareness and understanding of blockchain concepts among students

Measurement and Tracking:

• Completion and approval of the blockchain curriculum by AID's academic board
• Evaluation of the curriculum's comprehensiveness and relevance
• Feedback from faculty and stakeholders involved in the curriculum development process

Milestone 2: Blockchain Lab Setup

Deliverables:

• Established blockchain lab with necessary hardware and software components
• Secure network infrastructure for blockchain development
• Documentation of lab setup, including equipment inventory and configuration details

Outputs:

• Fully functional blockchain lab ready for student use
• Access to required tools and software for blockchain development

Intended Outcomes:

• Equipped students with a dedicated space and resources for hands-on blockchain projects
• Enhanced practical learning environment for blockchain technology and development
• Increased engagement and experimentation with blockchain concepts and tools

Measurement and Tracking:

• Completion of the blockchain lab setup within the designated timeline
• Verification of the functionality and accessibility of lab equipment and software
• Feedback from students and faculty regarding the usability and effectiveness of the lab

Milestone 3: Integration into Existing Courses

Deliverables:

• Modified course materials with integrated blockchain components
• Documentation of the integration process, including guidelines and best practices
• Training materials and resources for faculty on teaching blockchain concepts

Outputs:

• Updated courses with integrated blockchain content
• Faculty trained in delivering blockchain-related topics

Intended Outcomes:

• Seamless integration of blockchain topics into existing courses
• Enhanced understanding of blockchain technology among students across multiple disciplines
• Increased exposure to real-world applications of blockchain in design, gaming, and animation

Measurement and Tracking:

• Completion of course material modifications and integration of blockchain components
• Assessment of student engagement and performance in blockchain-related topics
• Faculty feedback on the effectiveness of the integration process and training

Milestone 4: Student Project Development

Deliverables:

• Developed student projects (decentralized applications, smart contracts, digital assets)
• Documentation of project guidelines and resources provided to students
• Evaluation and feedback reports for student projects

Outputs:

• Completed student projects demonstrating practical application of blockchain technology
• Improved student proficiency in blockchain development and problem-solving

Intended Outcomes:

• Empowered students to apply blockchain concepts to real-world scenarios
• Fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation among students
• Increased student confidence and readiness for industry engagement

Measurement and Tracking:

• Completion and quality of student projects developed during the project timeline
• Feedback and evaluations from students and mentors on project development experience
• Assessment of student understanding and application of blockchain principles in project outcomes

Milestone 5: Student Showcases and Industry Engagements

Deliverables:

• Organized student showcase events
• Documentation of industry partnerships and collaborations formed
• Feedback and testimonies from industry professionals and stakeholders

Outputs:

• Successful student showcases highlighting completed projects
• Established partnerships with Cardano companies and startups
• Networking opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals

Intended Outcomes:

• Increased visibility and recognition of student projects within the industry
• Expanded network and connections for students in the blockchain and related industries
• Potential internship and job placement opportunities for students

Measurement and Tracking:

• Successful organization and outcomes of student showcase events
• Number of industry partnerships and collaborations established
• Feedback and testimonials from industry professionals and stakeholders on student projects and potential opportunities

[RESOURCES & VALUE FOR MONEY] Please provide a detailed budget breakdown of the proposed work and resources.

Budget Breakdown:

• Milestone 1: Curriculum Development and Approval - Budget: 10,000 ADA
• Research and materials: 2,000 ADA
• Curriculum development: 4,000 ADA
• Review and approval process: 2,000 ADA
• Documentation and resources: 2,000 ADA

• Milestone 2: Blockchain Lab Setup - Budget: 15,000 ADA
• Hardware and software components: 8,000 ADA
• Network infrastructure setup: 4,000 ADA
• Documentation and inventory: 2,000 ADA
• Contingency: 1,000 ADA

• Milestone 3: Integration into Existing Courses - Budget: 20,000 ADA
• Course material modifications: 6,000 ADA
• Faculty training: 6,000 ADA
• Integration support and resources: 5,000 ADA
• Contingency: 3,000 ADA

• Milestone 4: Student Project Development - Budget: 20,000 ADA
• Project guidelines and resources: 3,000 ADA
• Mentorship and support: 10,000 ADA
• Evaluation and feedback: 4,000 ADA
• Contingency: 3,000 ADA

• Milestone 5: Student Showcases and Industry Engagements - Budget: 10,000 ADA
• Event organization and logistics: 4,000 ADA
• Industry partnerships and collaborations: 4,000 ADA
• Documentation and testimonials: 2,000 ADA

Total Budget: 75,000 ADA

It is the responsibility of the project team to manage the allocated funds effectively and ensure their proper utilization as outlined in the budget breakdown. Regular financial monitoring and reporting will be conducted to maintain transparency and accountability throughout the project.

[RESOURCES & VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The cost breakdown of our project represents value for money for the Cardano ecosystem in the following ways:

• Strategic Focus: The project is strategically aligned with the goals and vision of the Cardano ecosystem. By establishing a dedicated blockchain laboratory and integrating blockchain education into design, gaming, and animation courses, we are nurturing a new generation of blockchain professionals who can contribute to the growth and innovation of Cardano.

• Long-Term Impact: The project's outcomes extend beyond the immediate timeline. By equipping students with blockchain knowledge and practical experience, we are fostering a sustainable talent pipeline for the Cardano ecosystem. The long-term benefits of having skilled graduates who can contribute to Cardano-based projects and initiatives will far outweigh the initial investment.

• Value of Education: Education is a crucial investment that yields long-term benefits. The cost associated with curriculum development, faculty training, and student projects reflects the value of providing high-quality education in blockchain technology. The impact of well-trained and competent blockchain professionals within the Cardano ecosystem will drive innovation and contribute to the ecosystem's growth.

• Cost Justification: The costs outlined in the budget breakdown have been determined based on careful considerations, including the resources required, market rates for hardware and software components, and the expertise and time involved. We have taken into account factors such as the average wage in our country, industry standards, and the specific needs of the project. The budget has been developed responsibly and in line with the project's objectives and outcomes.

• Broader Ecosystem Engagement: Our project not only benefits students and faculty at AID but also engages with industry partners and stakeholders. This collaboration amplifies the impact of the project, creates networking opportunities, and encourages industry involvement in shaping the future of blockchain education. The cost associated with establishing industry partnerships and organizing student showcases reflects the value of fostering connections and expanding the reach of the project.

Overall, the cost of the project represents value for money by investing in education, innovation, and research that will contribute to the development, adoption, and long-term success of Cardano. The benefits of producing skilled graduates, driving blockchain-based projects, and fostering industry partnerships will generate substantial returns for the Cardano ecosystem, making the investment worthwhile.

[IMPORTANT NOTE] The Applicant agreed to Fund10 rules and also that data in the Submission Form and other data provided by the project team during the course of the project will be publicly available.

I Accept