The School of Animation and Media Studies (SAMS) organized an industrial tour to the prestigious Bengaluru GAFX Conference 2026 from February 27th to March 1st, 2026, exclusively for Animation students. A total of 63 students participated in the tour, accompanied by three faculty members who guided and mentored them throughout the program. The visit aimed to provide students with real-world exposure to the Animation, Visual Effects (VFX), and Gaming industries, bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practices. Bengaluru GAFX is a flagship annual event supported by the Government of Karnataka, known for bringing together professionals, studios, and emerging talent from across the animation and digital media sectors. The conference featured a wide range of activities, including expert panel discussions, technical sessions, live demonstrations, and competitive pitches presented to leading studios. One of the highlights of the event was the screening of the GAFX 2026 Official Showreel, which showcased outstanding creative works and innovations in the field.
During the tour, students actively engaged in various sessions and interacted with industry experts, gaining valuable insights into current trends, tools, and workflows used in Animation, VFX, and Gaming. These interactions helped them understand industry expectations, career opportunities, and the importance of creativity, technical skills, and teamwork. The exposure also inspired students to enhance their portfolios and align their learning with industry standards.
Overall, the industrial visit proved to be an enriching and informative experience. It not only broadened the students’ knowledge but also motivated them to pursue their careers with greater clarity and confidence. The tour successfully fulfilled its objective of providing practical exposure and fostering professional growth among the participants.