In the bustling city of Pune, where the convergence of tradition and modernity creates a vibrant backdrop, lies the International Institute of Information Technology, also known as I Square IT. As one of the premier institutions for undergraduate education in Information Technology (IT), Computer Engineering, and Electronics & Telecommunication, I²IT not only prides itself on academic excellence but also on nurturing a holistic learning environment that promotes a healthy study-life balance.

For students embarking on their academic journey at I²IT, striking a balance between rigorous coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal pursuits is paramount. With a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire, coupled with a myriad of opportunities for personal growth and development, students find themselves immersed in a dynamic and enriching educational experience.

At the heart of I Square IT’s approach to fostering a healthy study-life balance lies a commitment to holistic education. Recognizing that academic success is just one facet of a fulfilling college experience, the institution places equal emphasis on extracurricular activities, social engagement, professional outreach and personal well-being.

Academically, students at I²IT are exposed to a rigorous curriculum under Savitribai Phule Pune University, (SPPU) that is both comprehensive and cutting-edge. From foundational courses in mathematics and computer science to specialized electives in emerging technologies, the curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid theoretical foundation while also equipping them with practical skills relevant to the industry.

To support students in their academic endeavours, I Square IT offers a range of resources and support services, including dedicated faculty mentors, tutoring programs, and state-of-the-art learning facilities. Additionally, the college promotes a culture of collaboration and peer-to-peer learning, encouraging students to work together to overcome challenges and achieve academic success.

Beyond the classroom, students at I²IT have ample opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities that cater to a wide range of interests and passions. Whether it’s participating in technical clubs and competitions, organizing cultural events and festivals, or volunteering for community service projects, there is no shortage of ways for students to get involved and make meaningful contributions to campus life.

Moreover, the college recognizes the importance of physical and mental well-being in maintaining a healthy study-life balance. To this end, I²IT provides access to a range of recreational facilities, including sports grounds, and fitness centres,where students can unwind and recharge after a long day of classes and studying.

In addition to promoting academic and personal development, I²IT places a strong emphasis on fostering a sense of community and belonging among its students. With a diverse and inclusive campus environment, students have the opportunity to interact with peers from different backgrounds and cultures, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Furthermore, the college organizes regular social and networking events, such as orientation programs, alumni meetups, and industry guest lectures, providing students with valuable opportunities to expand their networks and forge connections that will serve them well beyond graduation.

Despite the academic rigor and extracurricular commitments, students at I²IT are encouraged to prioritize self-care and mental health. The college offers counselling services and mentoring, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to navigate the inevitable challenges and pressures of college life.

The study-life balance at I Square IT is characterized by a commitment to holistic education, personal development, and well-being. By providing a supportive and nurturing environment where academic excellence is complemented by extracurricular engagement and social enrichment, the college empowers students to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.


About the author: – Prof. Madhuri Reddy is an Asst. Professor in the Department of Engineering Sciences. She is the Head of Admissions at I²IT as well as the College Examination Officer (CEO). To get in touch with Prof. Madhuri, you can send a mail to madhurir@isquareit.edu.in; info@isquareit.edu.in; Visit – www.isquareit.edu.in to know about the institute.

In the fast-paced realm of technology, the future of Electronics & Telecommunication Engineers in India is brimming with unprecedented opportunities and innovation. With the Indian government’s ambitious vision to establish the country as a global semiconductor hub and the rapid advancements in telecommunication technology, the stage is set for E&TC engineers to play a pivotal role in shaping the technological landscape of tomorrow.

India’s emergence as a semiconductor powerhouse is not merely a vision but a strategic imperative backed by robust government policies and initiatives. With initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and the National Policy on Electronics (NPE), the government aims to attract investment and foster domestic manufacturing of semiconductors, thereby reducing reliance on imports and positioning India as a key player in the global semiconductor market.

Simultaneously, the advancements in telecommunication technology, particularly in the realm of space science, are opening up new frontiers of exploration and connectivity. India’s ambitious space missions, such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, have not only bolstered the country’s prestige on the global stage but also propelled technological innovation in telecommunication, remote sensing, and satellite communication systems.

Furthermore, India’s geo-political strength and favourable business climate are attracting international companies to set up manufacturing facilities in the country. The recent announcement of Tesla’s investment in India to manufacture electric vehicles (EVs) is a testament to the country’s growing stature as a preferred destination for high-tech manufacturing.

Against this backdrop of technological advancements and strategic initiatives, the future of Electronics & Telecommunication Engineers in India is brighter than ever. As pioneers in this evolving landscape, E&TC engineers have a wealth of opportunities to explore and capitalize on.

For aspiring E&TC engineers, developing a successful career trajectory requires a blend of technical expertise, innovation, and adaptability. From designing cutting-edge semiconductor devices to optimizing communication networks and satellite systems, the possibilities are limitless. Moreover, with the increasing emphasis on sustainable technology and renewable energy, E&TC engineers have the opportunity to drive meaningful change and contribute to building a greener future.

At the International Institute of Information Technology, Pune (I Square IT), I2IT, the Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering program is designed to empower students with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to thrive in this dynamic field. Through a combination of rigorous academics, hands-on projects, and industry exposure, students at I2IT are equipped to tackle real-world challenges and seize opportunities in the ever-evolving landscape of electronics and telecommunication.

By fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning, I2IT nurtures the next generation of E&TC engineers who are not just adept at navigating the technological frontier but are also poised to lead and shape the future of the industry. With state-of-the-art facilities, industry partnerships, and a dedicated faculty, I Square IT provides the ideal platform for students to embark on a journey of discovery and success in the field of Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering.

As India accelerates its journey towards technological leadership, the role of Electronics & Telecommunication Engineers becomes increasingly vital. With the right education, skills, and opportunities, E&TC engineers have the potential to drive innovation, transform industries, and contribute to India’s emergence as a global technological powerhouse. At I2IT, students are not just prepared for the future – they are empowered to create it.


About the author: – Dr.S. Mohan Mahalakshmi Naidu holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from IIT Mumbai. He is the Head of Department of Electronics & Telecommunication, I²IT. Dr.Mohan’s areas of interest are AI/ML in Biomedical Engineering. To get in touch with Dr.Naidu, you can send a mail to mohans@isquareit.edu.in; info@isquareit.edu.in; Visit – www.isquareit.edu.in to know about the institute.

In the era of Make in India and burgeoning global recognition, the imperative to foster indigenous innovation has never been more crucial. India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation hinges on the ingenuity and creativity of its youth, propelled by a conducive environment that nurtures research and development. Among the vanguards of this movement stands the Pralhad P. Chhabria Research Center (PPCRC), an emblem of innovation and excellence in engineering education and research.

Established in 2016 in memory of the late Shri. Pralhad P. Chhabria, visionary entrepreneur and Founder Chairman of Finolex Group of Companies, PPCRC embodies his legacy of fostering social development through education and research. As a constituent of the Hope Foundation and Research Centre, PPCRC is dedicated to advancing knowledge, promoting research, and providing education and training in science, engineering, and technology to serve India and the world.

PPCRC’s mandate extends across diverse fields of engineering and technology, including energy, environment, telecommunication, spatial data infrastructure, healthcare, deep space, disaster management, and computation. Through its research and development activities, PPCRC seeks to address pressing societal challenges while driving technological innovation and advancement.

With its amalgamation with the International Institute of Information Technology (I²IT) in Pune, PPCRC has evolved into a dedicated in-house Research, Development, Consultancy, and Collaboration (RDCC) Cell. Positioned as an eminent wing of academics and research, PPCRC is poised to play a pivotal role in finding and creating technological solutions that enhance the quality of life.

At the heart of PPCRC’s mission is the emphasis on research-driven academics that transcends the boundaries of traditional curriculum. From geo-informatics to artificial intelligence, from cloud computing to cybersecurity, PPCRC provides a fertile ground for exploration and discovery in various domains of engineering and technology.

Through its Centers of Excellence, PPCRC offers students a platform to engage in cutting-edge research projects, collaborate with industry experts, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge. The center’s track record of successfully completing international and national research as well as sponsored projects and providing consultancies attests to its commitment to excellence and innovation.

Furthermore, PPCRC’s outreach activities, including international immersion programs, research internships, workshops, training programs, and summer camps, provide students with invaluable opportunities to broaden their horizons, expand their networks, and gain hands-on experience in their chosen field. PPCRC has earnestly provided 100+ internship opportunities and trained 5,000+ to internal and external students / participants over last 6 years.

One of the key strengths of research centers like PPCRC lies in their ability to inspire entrepreneurship and innovation among students. By encouraging a culture of curiosity, creativity, and collaboration, PPCRC empowers students to not only excel academically but also explore entrepreneurial ventures and start-ups that leverage their research and technological prowess.

Research centers like PPCRC play a pivotal role in driving technological advancement and innovation in India. By providing a conducive environment for research and development, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and inspiring entrepreneurial spirit, PPCRC is shaping the future of engineering education and research, one breakthrough at a time.


About the author: – Dr.V Rajesh Chowdhary holds a PhD in Remote Sensing & GIS (Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand). He is the Head – Research & Development, Consultancy and Collaboration | International Relations, Pralhad P.Chhabria Research Center (PPCRC). Dr. Rajesh is also an Associate Professor with the Department of Electronics & Telecommunications Engineering, I²IT. To get in touch with Dr. Rajesh, you can send a mail to vrajeshc@isquareit.edu.in; info@isquareit.edu.in; Visit – www.isquareit.edu.in to know about the institute.

In today’s competitive job market, academic excellence alone is no longer sufficient to ensure success. Employers seek candidates who possess not only strong technical skills but also a range of soft skills, leadership qualities, and real-world experience. Recognizing the importance of preparing students for the demands of the professional world, International Institute of Information Technology, affectionately known as I2IT, offers a plethora of professional development opportunities designed to equip students with the tools, knowledge, and experiences needed to excel in their chosen fields. There are diverse array of professional development opportunities available at I2ITand how they contribute to shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.

Internship Programs

One of the cornerstone experiences of professional development at I2IT is the internship program. Through strategic partnerships with leading companies and organizations, students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field, applying classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. Whether interning at multinational corporations, cutting-edge start-ups, or research institutions, students benefit from mentorship, networking opportunities, and invaluable insights into industry practices. Internships not only enhance students’ resumes but also provide a platform for personal and professional growth, helping them make informed career decisions and charting their path to success.

Industry Collaborations

I2IT fosters a culture of collaboration with industry partners, providing students with opportunities to engage in collaborative projects, research initiatives, and innovation challenges. Through these partnerships, students work closely with industry professionals, gaining first-hand experience in problem-solving, project management, and teamwork. Whether developing software solutions, conducting research studies, or participating in hackathons, students benefit from exposure to real-world problems and cutting-edge technologies, honing their skills and expanding their professional networks in the process.

Entrepreneurship Initiatives

For students with an entrepreneurial spirit, I2IToffers a range of initiatives and resources to support their aspirations. From start-up incubators to entrepreneurship boot camps, students have access to guidance, mentorship, and funding opportunities to turn their innovative ideas into successful ventures. Through workshops, seminars, and networking events, aspiring entrepreneurs learn about business strategy, market analysis, and funding sources, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. Whether launching a tech start-up or developing a social enterprise, I2IT empowers students to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and make a positive impact on society.

Professional Workshops and Seminars

Continuous learning is essential for success in today’s rapidly evolving job market, and I2ITfacilitates lifelong learning through a series of professional workshops, seminars, and guest lectures. Covering a wide range of topics such as leadership development, communication skills, and industry trends, these sessions provide students with valuable insights and practical strategies for personal and professional growth. Whether delivered by industry experts, faculty members, or alumni, these sessions inspire, educate, and empower students to stay abreast of the latest developments in their field and adapt to changing market dynamics.

Leadership Development Programs

At I2IT, leadership is not just a title; it’s a skill to be cultivated and nurtured. The institute offers a range of leadership development programs designed to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to lead effectively in today’s complex world. Through experiential learning activities, team-building exercises, and leadership workshops, students learn about effective communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making, gaining insights into their strengths and areas for growth as leaders. Whether serving as student ambassadors, club presidents, or project leaders, students have ample opportunities to hone their leadership abilities and make a positive impact on their peers and the broader community.

Networking Opportunities

In today’s interconnected world, networking is a vital component of professional success, and I2IT provides students with ample opportunities to expand their professional networks. Whether through career fairs, alumni events, or industry meetups, students have the chance to connect with professionals from diverse backgrounds, industries, and career paths. These networking opportunities not only facilitate job prospects and internship placements but also foster mentorship relationships, collaboration opportunities, and lifelong friendships. By building strong networks, students enhance their visibility, credibility, and career prospects, positioning themselves for success in their chosen field.

In conclusion, International Institute of Information Technology (I2IT) stands at the forefront of professional development, offering students a wealth of opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive in their chosen careers. From internships and industry collaborations to entrepreneurship initiatives and leadership development programs, I2ITprovides a comprehensive ecosystem of support to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the professional world. By fostering experiential learning, fostering collaboration, and empowering students to take ownership of their career paths, I2IT is shaping the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow’s world. As students embark on their professional journey, I2ITremains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing their potential, empowering them to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields and beyond.


About the author: – Dr. Sandeep Patil, Associate Professor, Department of Computer Engineering, I2IT. Dr. Patil is also the Vice-President of I2IT’s Institute Innovation Council (IIC). To get in touch with Dr. Patil, you can send a mail to sandeepp@isquareit.edu.in; info@isquareit.edu.in; Visit – www.isquareit.edu.in to know about the institute.

In today’s interconnected world, diversity in education plays a pivotal role in shaping holistic learning experiences and preparing students for the dynamic global landscape. At International Institute of Information Technology (I2IT), situated in Pune, India, we believe that I2ITstands as a beacon of inclusive education, embracing diversity in all its forms. From cultural backgrounds to academic interests, I2IT fosters an environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together to innovate, collaborate, and thrive. I2IT addresses student diversity, enriching the educational journey for all.

Diversity in Demographics

I2IT prides itself on its diverse student body, comprising individuals from various regions, cultures, and socio-economic backgrounds. With a commitment to inclusivity, the institute actively recruits students from across India, ensuring a vibrant mix of perspectives within its academic community. Whether hailing from bustling metropolitan cities or tranquil rural areas, students find a welcoming home at I2IT, where diversity is celebrated and cherished.

Academic Diversity

At I2IT, diversity extends beyond demographics to encompass academic interests and aspirations. As a leading institute specializing in information technology and engineering, it attracts students passionate about computer science, engineering, information technology, electronics & telecommunication and related fields. However, the institute recognizes the importance of nurturing multidisciplinary talent and encourages students to explore diverse academic avenues. From computer engineering to data science, students have the flexibility to tailor their education to align with their interests and career goals, fostering a rich tapestry of academic diversity.

Promoting Inclusivity

Creating an inclusive environment goes beyond merely admitting students from diverse backgrounds; it involves fostering a culture of respect, acceptance, and belonging. I2IT prioritizes inclusivity through various initiatives and support systems aimed at ensuring every student feels valued and empowered. From mentorship programs to cultural exchanges, the institute provides platforms for students to connect, learn from each other, and celebrate their differences. Additionally, dedicated counselling services and student support networks are in place to address the unique needs and challenges of individuals, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Innovation and Research

Diversity fuels innovation, and I2IT recognizes the significance of harnessing diverse perspectives to drive technological advancements. The institute fosters a culture of innovation and research, through its Pralhad P Chhabria Research Center that encourages students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate on cutting-edge projects and pursue ground-breaking ideas. Through interdisciplinary research centres, hackathons, and innovation challenges, students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems, transcending boundaries and making meaningful contributions to society.

Affordable Education

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, I2IT is committed to providing quality education at an affordable cost. By offering scholarships, financial aid, and merit-based awards, the institute ensures that talented students, regardless of their financial constraints, have the opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations. Additionally, industry collaborations and internships provide students with valuable hands-on experience and exposure to real-world challenges, enhancing their employability and facilitating a smooth transition into the workforce.

In conclusion, International Institute of Information Technology (I2IT) stands as a testament to the transformative power of diversity in education. By embracing students from diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusivity, and promoting international engagement, I2IT creates a vibrant learning environment where innovation thrives, and talents flourish. Through its commitment to affordability and accessibility, the institute ensures that every aspiring student has the opportunity to unlock their full potential and contribute to the ever-evolving field of information technology and engineering.

At I2IT, diversity is not just a buzzword; it’s a cornerstone of excellence, shaping the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow’s world.


About the author: – Dr. Bhavana Kanawade, Associate Professor, Department of Information Technology, I2IT. Dr. Bhavana is also Chief Coordinator- Student Affairs, I2IT. To get in touch with Dr. Kanawade, you can send a mail to bhavanak@isquareit.edu.ininfo@isquareit.edu.in

Visit – www.isquareit.edu.in to know about the institute.

In the bustling city of Pune, amidst the cacophony of educational institutions, one name shines brightly as a beacon of excellence: International Institute of Information Technology, fondly known as I Square IT (I²IT) . For students embarking on their educational journey and parents seeking the best for their children, I²IT stands out as more than just a place to learn—it is a sanctuary of innovation, empowerment, and boundless opportunities. There are distinctive elements that make I²IT a premier destination for academic pursuits.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

At I²IT, learning transcends the boundaries of traditional education. The institute is affiliated to Savitribai Phule Pune University, (SPPU), offers a dynamic and industry-relevant curriculum designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the fast-paced world of technology. From computer science to engineering, to information technology, to electronics & telecommunication, every course is meticulously crafted to ensure relevance, practicality, and alignment with university as well as global standards. With a focus on experiential learning, students engage in hands-on projects, internships, project-based learning and industry collaborations, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges with confidence and proficiency.

Distinguished Faculty

Central to I²IT‘s success is its exceptional faculty comprising dedicated educators, young dynamic scholars, academic veterans and scholars,. With a wealth of experience and expertise in their respective fields, the faculty members at I²IT are more than just instructors—they are mentors, guides, and catalysts for intellectual growth. Through their passion for teaching and commitment to student success, they inspire and empower students to push the boundaries of knowledge, nurturing a culture of excellence and innovation.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Innovation thrives in an environment conducive to creativity and collaboration, and I²IT provides just that. The institute boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including cutting-edge laboratories, Pralhad P Chhabria Research Centre (having the distinction of providing research opportunities to under graduates), and technological infrastructure, creating a vibrant ecosystem for learning and exploration. Whether experimenting with robotics, delving into artificial intelligence, or coding in the latest programming languages, students have access to the tools and resources needed to turn their ideas into reality.

Emphasis on Research and Innovation

At I²IT, curiosity is encouraged, and innovation is celebrated as a cornerstone of academic excellence. The institute fosters a culture of research and innovation, encouraging students to question, explore, and push the boundaries of knowledge. Through its Pralhad P Chhabria Research Center (PPCRC), innovation labs, interdisciplinary, and collaborative research projects, students have the opportunity to participate in pioneering research and contribute to the forefront of technological advancements. From developing software solutions to tackling global challenges, I²IT empowers students to make meaningful contributions to society through their research endeavours.

Holistic Development

Beyond academics, I²IT is committed to nurturing the holistic development of its students. The institute offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports facilities, providing students with opportunities to explore their interests, hone their talents, and foster lifelong friendships. Whether participating in hackathons, cultural festivals, or community service projects, students are encouraged to pursue their passions and develop essential life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience.

Alumni Success Stories

The true measure of an institution’s success lies in the achievements of its alumni, and I²IT boasts an impressive array of success stories. Graduates of I²IT have gone on to make significant contributions to the field of information technology and engineering, both nationally and internationally. From founding successful start-ups to leading multinational corporations, I²IT alumni exemplify the institute’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and lifelong learning.

In conclusion, International Institute of Information Technology (I²IT) emerges as a beacon of excellence in the realm of education, offering students a transformative learning experience characterized by innovation, empowerment, and boundless opportunities. With a cutting-edge curriculum, world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to research, innovation, and holistic development, I²IT stands as a testament to the power of education to shape minds, transform lives, and create a brighter future for generations to come.

As students and parents embark on the journey of educational exploration, I²IT beckons as more than just a place to learn—it is a gateway to a world of endless possibilities and limitless potential.


About the author – Dr. Varsha Degaonkar is Associate Professor with the Department of Electronics & Telecommunication, I²IT (www.isquareit.edu.in). Dr. Varsha is also ‘Academic Planning and Monitoring Committee (APMC) Coordinator’ and she facilitates academic planning, monitoring, coordination, and communication within I²IT. To contact Dr. Varsha, please mail her at varshad@isquareit.edu.in, info@isquareit.edu.in  admissions@isquareit.edu.in 

Very often, as academicians, we come across these questions:

“Are your students, industry ready ?”
“How well are they trained to take up careers in industry ?”
“What additional skill sets did they acquire during their undergraduate years ?”
“Can they work on live projects ?”
“What makes them different from graduates from other institutions?”
“What is the Unique Selling Point (USP) of your institute ?”

While the answers to these questions can’t be generalized, it is imperative to understand the need of the hour and the perspectives of both the Industry and Academia.

One thing is irrefutable, competition is tough and the industry seeks out ONLY the best talent. And what can we as academicians do to nurture the talents of our students to make them worthy of the industry? How can we bridge the knowledge gap between academia and industry? On one hand, academicians could purport that their role is to teach and train students by providing them with basics and foundational knowledge of their domain, while also incorporating niche technologies into the curricula and designing a syllabus that is in tandem with industry development.  Simultaneously, the industry raises red flags that question the quality of teaching and learning, qualifications of tutors, their exposure and domain knowledge, industry experience and the buck keeps passing around. In the meanwhile, it is the students who have to face the effects of this disparity.

From an academic point of view, the success of an institute is based on numerous factors such as placements, average package, inclination towards higher education, highly qualified teaching faculty, pass percentage, quality infrastructure, and so on. On the other hand, large companies do have their own Learning and Development (L&D) centers to train and equip freshers as per the project requirements. In fact, a highly organized and well-structured hierarchical approach is taken. For instance, a global lead/head sitting in the US of a particular IT specialization may be performing business development, bringing business to his/ her firm, generating revenues, and producing profits. In turn, at a regional level (say in Asia pacific) another executive/lead will prioritize the strategy, training, and staff development based on the acquisitions made by the global head. The delivery head (at the country level)  will ensure that all operations such as manpower recruitment, training and development, enlistment of credible trainers, associates, and consultants who are subject matter experts to be part of the L&D so that they can drive freshers and equip them with required skills to handle the projects. Effectually, a project is declared successful, if it’s completed in time, with allocated resources, within proposed budgets, and delivering good profit margins.

Presently these are two distinct entities.  Now, imagine a scenario wherein L&D centres are branched out to and managed by academic institutes. As Principal Investigators (PI), faculty members bring in projects from clients, hire and train other team members to be equipped with required skills and provide internships to students while adhering to execution practices, processes, technology stack, and functionalities and methods that are at part with industry standards. In the end,  projects are delivered successfully to the clients with a nominal profit margin.

This could be a win-win situation wherein companies don’t have to invest in and maintain L&Ds and academicians and students alike get the opportunity to hone skills that can add value to their careers.

By
Dr. Rajesh Chowdhary


The author is an Associate Professor at the International Institute of Information Technology and the head of the Pralhad P Chhabria Center at Hinjawadi Pune. (www.isquareit.edu.in) (www.ppcrc.isquareit.edu.in)

As a child, we all asked a million questions about everything – Why is the sky black?  How do we not fall from the earth?  Why 2 and 2 equals 4?  Why are apples red? How babies are born? Where does the sun go at night? We all had a barrage of questions for our parents and grandparents.

Then school happened and we fell into the straight-jacketed education system that rarely encourages thinking and questioning beyond the syllabi. And eventually, after 16 years of passing through meticulously planned studies, most graduates lose their innate ability to ask WHY and HOW.  Sad as it may seem, it certainly is not a scientific apocalypse; one needs to just stroke the ember of curiosity that is there deep down in everyone.  We all have curiosity.  It is part of nature and one’s survival instinct.  This curiosity helps us grow, become knowledgeable, develop, invent, innovate, and create; not just for ourselves; but pave the path for others too.

That’s what Research does – stoke the fire of curiosity in us.

Research is a journey that begins with observing and learning information from the outside world to the inside assimilation of that information and vice versa. In fact, research is happening unnoticed simultaneously in every moment of our life. Many of us may think Research is a tough career to pursue, but the truth is research is fun and it drives one of our basic instinct – to wonder and imagine, a power that is unseen among all other animals. And research is what makes us superior and has brought us to the top of the survival chart.

Take cell phones as an example. Martin Cooper, the engineer from Motorola, developed the first hand-held phone that could connect over Bell’s AMPS. Motorola launched DynaTAC in 1984. It weighed over a kilogram and was affectionately known as The Brick. Till date, we have witnessed the mega evolution in mobile technologies ranging from keypad based to touch screen, bulky to lightweight foldable mobiles, 56 kbps to 1 gbps data speed, text to voice to video to live streaming, 192 MB to 18 GB RAM, 8 MB to 1 TB storage, almost a microcomputer in our hands. No need to say how much this research outcome has impacted the common man sitting in a remote corner of the rural world.

All this hand-held luxury that we all enjoy now was made possible due to thousands of researchers working continuously across the globe to improvise and enhance the compatibility, usability, and user experience of mobiles and make them more efficient and effective. Each day a new future feature is being designed, tested, launched, and implemented. Researchers are already living and working in a future for the betterment and sustainable development of the lives on our planet.

Be it Space Science, Deep Ocean exploration, Oil &Gas, Cosmetics, Paints, Agriculture, Transportation, Atomic Energy, Defence, Medicine, Healthcare, IT, AI technologies… research is happening every day, hour, and second around us. The future that we all hope to live in will eventually be the outcome of present-day research, experiments, and development undertaken by young engineers who have the responsibility to create solutions.

Don’t misunderstand; doing research does not mean that we have to be locked up in a lab, looking all nerdy, and not getting paid well.  Let’s break that myth.

Today large corporations have their own research labs equipped with the latest equipment and funding so that they can claim a cutting edge over competitions.  The right way to build a career in research is to choose a domain one would want to contribute to and add value to that are aligned with one’s goals. Next would be to list out firms working on new innovations, the latest technologies, and products in that chosen domain and then bring out the learner, the adaptive, the collaborative, and the visionary self, and eventually one will understand how much one can propel the domain forward and even became a torchbearer to others.

You are born as a human,
You are here for a mission,
You are the future of the current,
You are the hope of a nation,
You are the breath of this globe,
You are the solace of war times,
You are ever youth and soldier,
You are the strength of humanity,
You are the trust of billions,
You are spiritual as a researcher.

By
Dr. Rajesh Chowdhary


The author is an Associate Professor at the International Institute of Information Technology and the head of the Pralhad P Chhabria Center at Hinjawadi Pune. (www.isquareit.edu.in) (www.ppcrc.isquareit.edu.in)

In India, the chasm between industry and academia has always been a bane and there have been little to no efforts to bridge this gap making both entities grow apart further.  The effect of this outcome often impacts students’ careers.

In March 2020, we at PPCRC tried something unique.

Our team comprising of faculty and students got a wonderful opportunity to develop an enterprise platform for ‘capital equipment planning and procurement of medical technologies’ through a healthcare consultancy firm.  What started as a team of 2 faculty members, 3 students ended up becoming a 15-member team including external consultants who were hired for a few specific tasks.  Over the 2 years, we have matured and become more confident with our processes, practices, and approach to managing such projects.  And today, we have clients approaching us to take on their projects.

But how exactly did we do this? How did we nurture industry-ready professionals through this venture?

Rinse & Repeat, as they say, will not only keep increasing the pool of resources, team size, HR benefits; but also increase the number of projects from clients.

With this experience in end-to-end IT product development and the intention of creating a conducive ecosystem for research and industry-ready professionals, we initiated the PPCRC Internship Programme in November 2021 and floated the idea among the then T.E. students.  Those who came on board were able to continue to work on the project till the completion of their degrees. Six groups were tasked with topics based on 1-on-1 discussions and each project group consists of  3-4 students along with a faculty mentor from their respective department.

Standard Operating Procedures for the PPCRC Internship Program

These are the various stages and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) that were strictly adhered and followed during the implementation of the projects:

This new initiative will bring about the design and development of multiple in-house products which will become live and will be utilized by our own institute at various functional departments.  Ensuring that this development experience, which will be at par with industry standards will give our students deeper insights to gain unparalleled exposure and knowledge to cope with their careers ahead.

From the industry perspective, they get to recruit trained and skilled professionals.

It will also facilitate developing joint research and development endeavors with academia by harnessing the mutual infrastructure and outsourcing live project development to research centers which will drastically reduce the actual cost of development at their end. Some of the other benefits that this model could bring about are

  1. Nurturing Industry ready talent pool available at zero recruitment cost
  2. Minimum training expenses, leading to early onboarding into live projects.
  3. Training specialized modules of requirements through research centers in academic wings, through the train the trainer models.
  4. Supporting such research centers with tools and software for learning and development
  5. Making such centres an integral part of industry-sponsored research centers and mentoring at regular intervals
  6. Engage with the research center as a startup wing of the industry to ease the processes of management, decision-making, and approvals.
  7. Let such successful startups born out of research centers, grow high and create more employment opportunities in the country.

Success as they say can come from unexpected ventures.  And it is time that academicians and industry professionals find ways to work cohesively so that the next generation of professionals can thrive.

By
Dr. Rajesh Chowdhary


The author is an Associate Professor at the International Institute of Information Technology and the head of the Pralhad P Chhabria Center at Hinjawadi Pune. (www.isquareit.edu.in) (www.ppcrc.isquareit.edu.in)

Department of E&TC Engineering

is organizing a seminar on “DISCover yourself” on Thursday, October 13, 2022 for SE, TE and BE students  (all branches students).

Seminar Details:
  1. Topic of Seminar : DISCover yourself
  2. Resource Person: Ankit Rai, Country Manager, The Student Promise
  3. Day and Date: Thursday, October 13, 2022
  4. Time: 11.00 am to 12.30 pm
  5. Target Audience: SE and TE students of all branches