Hands-On Learning, Industry Collaboration Takes Center Stage of Engg Education: GD Goenka SoES Dean

In an exclusive conversation with Shiksha.com, Dr. Thammi Reddy Konala, Dean of the School of Engineering and Sciences, discussed the five-year plan, emphasising measures for student mental and emotional well-being, curriculum updates to meet evolving technology and industry needs and other key initiatives.

To address the rapid advancements in engineering and technology, GD Goenka School of Engineering & Sciences plan to introduce new engineering courses across various domains. Not only this but promoting research, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development is integral to the institute's mission.

Below are the excerpts from Shiksha’s interview with Dean Dr. Thammi Reddy Konala, GD Goenka School of Engineering & Sciences

Q 1: What is your vision for GD Goenka School of Engineering & Sciences in the next five years?

Dr. Thammi Reddy Konala: We are committed to fostering a dynamic academic environment that cultivates future leaders in engineering and science. Through a blend of rigorous academics, practical experience, interdisciplinary research, and strong industry partnerships, GD Goenka School of Engineering & Sciences aims to make a significant global impact.

We aim to integrate industry-aligned courses in collaboration with organizations like NVIDIA, Red Hat, AWS, and Udemy, offering minors in Artificial Intelligence, Electric Vehicles, and Chip Design to equip students with in-demand skills. Enhancing hands-on learning experiences is vital. Promoting research, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development is essential. Our initiatives, supported by the Government of India, will nurture innovation and prepare socially responsible graduates.

Q 2: How do you plan to enhance the global standing of School of Engineering & Sciences in terms of research and innovation?

Dr. Thammi Reddy Konala: To enhance the global reputation of the School of Engineering & Sciences in research and innovation, we have devised a comprehensive strategy focused on strengthening research capabilities and fostering a vibrant academic community. To bridge academia and industry, we will invite professionals for guest lectures and workshops and establish endowed chairs for visiting professors. Collaboration is key to groundbreaking research, and we will forge partnerships with industry and other institutions for joint projects.

Q 3: How is School of Engineering & Sciences adapting its curriculum to keep pace with rapidly changing technology and industry demands?

Dr. Thammi Reddy Konala: The School of Engineering & Sciences has established a Board of Studies for various departments, consisting of experts from industry, academia, alumni, and students. Through regular meetings, we adapt swiftly to the changing demands of the industry. Students have the flexibility to choose courses from MOOCs like NPTEL and SWAYAM, with a strong emphasis on skill-enhancement courses.

Q 4: Can you share recent initiatives taken by School of Engineering & Sciences to promote interdisciplinary research and education?

Dr. Thammi Reddy Konala: Since its inception, the School of Engineering & Sciences has prioritised interdisciplinary education. The Key initiatives include:

1. Integrating Interdisciplinary Projects: Collaboration among students from different fields fosters teamwork, leading to research publications and entrepreneurial ventures.

2. Hosting Multidisciplinary Conferences: Regular conferences provide a platform for young researchers to showcase their work, exchange ideas, and network with experts.

3. Facilitating Innovation-Driven Collaborations: These efforts promote startup development and applied research, equipping students to tackle real-world problems.

4. Encouraging Participation in Hackathons: Events like the Smart India Hackathon, Datathons, and project expos engage students in practical challenges.

5. Establishing Research Partnerships: Collaborative research across disciplines addresses complex challenges, contributing to significant scholarly outcomes.

Q 5: What measures are being implemented to ensure the mental and emotional well-being of the students?

Dr. Thammi Reddy Konala: The measures taken by the School of Engineering & Sciences (SoES) for student well-being:

1. Counselling Centers: Providing psychological support and therapy sessions.

2. Mentor-Mentee Programs: Faculty regularly interact with students to monitor their emotional health.

3. Wellness Workshops: Focused on stress management, mindfulness, and mental health awareness.

4. Extracurricular Activities: Organised by the Board of Student Activities (BSA), including tech, sports, and cultural clubs, with a special Wednesday slot for these events.

5. Single Window System: A feedback mechanism to address student concerns proactively.

Q 6: What are the most common engineering courses opted by students?

Dr. Thammi Reddy Konala: The most popular engineering programs chosen by our students include Computer Science and Engineering with specializations in AI & ML, data science, and cybersecurity; Computer Science and Engineering; Aerospace Engineering with pilot training; Health & Fire Safety; Electronics and Communication Engineering with an emphasis on IoT and Biomedical Engineering; Mechanical Engineering with specializations in robotics and sustainable manufacturing; and Civil Engineering focusing on smart infrastructure and environmental engineering.

Q 7: How does the institute ensure that its students are well-prepared for the global job market?

Dr. Thammi Reddy Konala: The Corporate Resource Centre has been established to assess students' needs and provide targeted training through internal and external experts. It offers workshops on résumé writing, mock interviews, aptitude testing, and domain-specific skills to prepare students for the job market.

Partnerships with industry leaders like Microsoft Cloud, REDHAT, IBM, L&T, and Bosch provide valuable hands-on experience, while a study abroad program offers essential international exposure for global placements.

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