MONROE, La. – The ULM Department of Computer Science is proud to announce that a student team has won the DevDays ClimateTech Challenge, hosted by Nexus Louisiana in collaboration with Future Use of Energy in Louisiana (FUEL) and Baker Hughes. Carbon Horizon, the winning team composed of computer science students Cecil Pradhan, Jeevan Parajuli, Sujal Thapa, and Prasanna Kumar Jha, was awarded a $5,000 prize at the competition in Baton Rouge on October 24.
The DevDays ClimateTech Challenge recruited 30 students representing 11 finalist teams from ULM, Grambling State University, LSU, and the University of New Orleans to tackle one of Louisiana’s most pressing industry challenges: carbon management.
Carbon Horizon is an AI-powered web application that supports companies in managing all stages of their Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) operations.
According to the Carbon Horizon team, “Carbon Horizon provides carbon capture companies with a means of tracking their CO2 emission and storage data, automating their report generation to the EPA, and improving public transparency. However, it also tackles larger issues by allowing companies to overcome complex regulations, hit the ground running through the marketplace, and build trust with the public, which is vital for carbon capture’s future.”
Pradhan, a sophomore studying computer science, admitted the challenge initially felt intimidating.
“It seemed daunting because we didn’t know much about climate tech or carbon capture—we're computer science students,” said Pradhan. “But we took on this challenge, and I’m really proud of myself, my team, and everyone who supported us."
“Carbon Horizon embodies what DevDays was designed to inspire - Louisiana-based technology developed by Louisiana-based engineers,” said Tony Zanders, president and CEO of Nexus Louisiana. “It’s proof that when industry and academia come together, Louisiana can lead the world in solving complex challenges.”
“As the Program Chair of the Computer Science Department, I am immensely proud of our students, their talents, dedication, and tireless hard work, which continues to inspire us all,” said Dr. Prasanthi Sreekumari, who also serves as an Associate Professor of Computer Science at ULM.
“Their commitment to academic excellence, creativity in solving real-world problems, and willingness to go above and beyond expectations are a reflection of the strength of our program. Whether engaging in cutting-edge research, participating in national competitions, or contributing to impactful projects, our students consistently demonstrate both technical proficiency and professional integrity. Their achievements not only elevate the reputation of our department but also pave the way for future innovation in the field of computer science,” she continued.
Sreekumari also added that the department is extremely proud of all the students who participated in the competition, including Anjan Mandal, Dinesh Chhantyal, Pradeep Poudel, Reeya Dangol, Zyan Dixon, Utsab Neupane, and Prabin Giri. “We are proud of their dedication, innovation, and commitment to solving real-world challenges. Their hard work reflects the department's continued pursuit of excellence in computing and technology,” she stated.
About Nexus Louisiana DevDays
Nexus Louisiana’s mission is to accelerate the growth of high-potential technology-enabled companies by providing them with coaching, capital, and connections. Their programs leverage regional collaboration to foster mentorship, investment, and opportunity for local entrepreneurs to grow their ideas and transform the technology industry in Louisiana.
DevDays are one-of-a-kind events that fuse technology, competition, and Louisiana’s legendary football pride. Over six weeks, participants tackle real-world challenges from leading industries and bring their solutions to life in an impactful, one-day demo event in Baton Rouge.
For more information, please visit https://nexusla.org/devdays.