Kolkata: The director of Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST) Ajoy Kumar Ray stressed on the importance of strengthening the relationship between engineering institutions and the industries in order to make students aware about the latest technologies which can help them in securing jobs.
He was speaking at the sidelines of a programme on the launch of 'BCCI's Knowledge Forum: Bridging the Industry and Academia', organised by the Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Ray pointed out that most institutions need an industry committee to create a bridge between Industry and Academia and only a united effort can usher in prosperity.
With the rapid transformation in the technological sector, it is the need of the hour to train the engineering students about the skills and technologies adopted by various industries.
If there is proper coordination between industries and engineering colleges, the students will be able to know what the market requirem-ents are and how to equip themselves with the latest trends.
In order to match steps with global standards, IIEST is also introducing a unique hands-on teaching method where students will take assignments from reputable companies and get their projects evaluated by the firms.
"Industries are coming up with the latest technological innovations and many of the old techniques are becoming obsolete. If there is a proper mechanism to maintain better corroborative efforts between the industrial sectors and various institutions, the students will get to know the market requirements," Ray said.
To ensure that the students receive holistic education with adequate skill in diverse fields, the IIEST is trying to make a model course structure.
The purpose will be to provide a large number of elective subjects. Projects should be made compul- sory in the final semester so that the students can learn industry methods while studying.
He also pointed out that he has made a proposal before the senate committee to introduce project-oriented internships in the final semester of the BTech students.
The internships will be done for a period of 4-5 months when the students will get acquainted with the latest innovations and technologies used by the industries.
Ray also said that various engineering colleges must come together in exploring the latest innovations.
If the proposal is cleared, students will have to undergo industrial training while serving as interns. They will be required to do projects offered by the industry in their respective disciplines.