The APOGEE English Press sat down with Aditya Prakash, the coordinator of the Department of Firewallz, to gain insight into their work during APOGEE 2023.

Firewallz is primarily responsible for the registration process during APOGEE, and is the first point of contact for any outsider. Firewallz conducts security checks and verifies the credentials of both visitors and participants. The department also issues temporary identification cards to visitors, participants, food stall staff, and sponsors. Firewallz is in charge of ensuring that rules are strictly followed during professional shows. ‘In cases of students being caught for substance abuse, if the student is under control, they are fined. If the student is not under control, they are taken to the Chief Security Officer,’ Aditya said.

Firewallz is a team of 50 people and the majority of its work is during the fest. Aditya explained that due to this, its members have tight work schedules. When asked about the problems they have faced in previous fests, Aditya responded that during APOGEE 2022, there was an issue with the participants being stalled at the main gate for 3–4 hours. He ensured that they have taken steps to make the process quicker and not let that happen again. He also mentioned that ‘the main challenge would be facing people who tend to be impatient and start raising their voices while waiting at the main gate.’

Aditya remarked that his experience as a coordinator has been mostly positive. Concluding the interview, he stated, ‘people should enjoy the fest but they should refrain from any malpractices and illegal activities.’