IIT Ropar and ICE collaborate on AI training Initiatives
Bahadurjeet Singh /Rupnagar,July 18,2024
The Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar (IIT Ropar), in collaboration with The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), recognized by NCVET and the Ministry of Skill Development,Government of India, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This collaboration aims to offer Artificial Intelligence training and certification programs for engineering students and Training of Trainers (ToT) for college educators. This landmark initiative is dedicated to advancing the skills of engineers by providing them with credits in subjects approved by the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), enhancing their employability, and contributing to industry growth.
This MoU represents a significant advancement in the integration of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aimed at enriching students’ academic and professional lives. Under this agreement, IIT Ropar will develop and conduct AI minor programs for engineering students, while ICE(S) will provide the necessary expertise and resources to support the training. The certification will be jointly offered by IIT Ropar and ICE(S), with recognition from the National Council for Vocational Education and Training.
“We are thrilled to partner with ICE(S) to offer this innovative program,” said Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar. “Our goal is to empower the next generation of engineers with AI skills, making them industry-ready and future-proof.”
“This collaboration with The Institution of Civil Engineers is a pivotal moment for us,” added Dr. Pushpendra P. Singh, Dean (Research and Development), IIT Ropar. “By leveraging the NCVET and NEP frameworks, we are equipping our engineers with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers. This initiative will not only benefit our students but also set a precedent for other institutions.”
The focus on skill development will encompass a wide range of competencies, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet industry demands. Moreover, this partnership will play a crucial role in training the trainers from other All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) approved colleges, thereby expanding the reach and impact of this initiative.
“The synergy between IIT Ropar and ICE will bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements,” stated Dr. S. L. Swamy, President of ICE(S). “Our joint efforts will create a robust framework for skill development, ensuring that our engineers are not only employable but also capable of driving innovation in their respective fields.”
Lt Gen Harpal Singh (Retd) speaking on the occasion said that “This collaboration is a significant milestone in the field of engineering education. By integrating AI training into the curriculum, IIT Ropar and ICE are not only addressing the current skills gap but also paving the way for future innovations.”
The emphasis on both student and trainer education ensures that the benefits of this initiative will be far- reaching and long-lasting.
By fostering Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy among trainers and students in the upcoming academic year, IIT Ropar and ICE(S) aim to lead the transformation of technical education in India.
At the MoU signing ceremony, Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar, Dr. Pushpendra P. Singh, Dean (Research & Development), IIT Ropar, Dr. S. L. Swamy, President, ICE(S), Lt Gen. Harpal Singh (Retd.), Vice Chairman, ICE(S), Dr Gurdeep Singh, Dean of George Mason University, USA, Dr. Sagar
Rohidas Chavan, HoD Civil Engineering, Dr. Reet Kamal Tiwari, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Dr. Sudarshan Iyengar, HoD, Computer Science and Technology, ICE, Sagar Singh Thakur, Secretary, ICE, N. Deshpande, Director, ICE(S), and other faculty members of IIT Ropar and ICE(S) were present.