The IIT Council meeting was held on Monday, which took place after two years. The last meeting was held in April 2023. The Council is the apex coordinating body of 23 major engineering institutes of India. In this meeting, serious discussions were held on changes in the curriculum and teaching methodology in view of the changing nature of technical education and the increasing influence of artificial intelligence (AI). It was decided in the meeting that a special task force would be formed, which would prepare a detailed action plan for both higher education and school education.
Emphasis on improving research and PhD education
The meeting discussed in detail the commercialization of research work being done in higher education institutions. The Council believes that for the progress of India, it is necessary to convert research into practical products and services instead of limiting it to laboratories only. Along with this, emphasis was also laid on improving the quality of PhD education, making it relevant globally and using research results in the interest of society. Along with this, strategies to improve global rankings, attract excellent talent and strengthen IIT as an advanced research center were also discussed.
Importance of alumni and social impact
It was acknowledged in the meeting that the socio-economic and global impact of IITs is constantly increasing. Especially the alumni of IITs have emerged as leaders, innovators and industrialists at the global level. Therefore, emphasis was laid on making better use of the alumni network. Through this, students can get guidance, industry links and career development. It was also discussed in the meeting that there is a need to establish strong links between industry, academic institutions and policy makers, so that scientific research can be promoted in line with national priorities and social needs.
Focus on mental health and self-reliance
Special emphasis was also laid on the mental health of students and teachers in the council meeting. Models of mental health adopted in various IITs were shared and suggestions were given to promote a healthy lifestyle. It was also agreed to arrange for annual health checkups on campus. Apart from this, it was decided that a policy will be prepared within a month, which will suggest practical measures to promote scientific research and product development in Indian universities and institutions. The objective of this policy will be to make India self-reliant in the technological field and competitive at the global level.
