CSIR DG calls for importance of academia, research and industry synergies
PrashantNews
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Director General Dr N. Kalaiselvi on Wednesday stressed the need for forging and strengthening linkages between scientific research, academic institutions and the industry keeping with the spirit of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Speaking on the occasion of the launch of a colloquium series by Royal Society of Chemistry – Cambridge (UK) and Doon University on Industry-Academia linkages, Dr Kalaiselvi, who was the chief guest, said the integration of education and industry is central to the NEP 2020 which aims at creating more holistic and practical education system while preparing students for future career options and enable them to become competent enough to either get jobs in the industry or become job creators.
Doon University Vice Chancellor Prof Surekha Dangwal in her welcome address pointed out that the NEP 2020 recognises that academia-industry collaborations are crucial to promote innovative ecosystem. “That is why interaction between higher education institutions and industry is important which would promote and facilitate knowledge and technology exchange.”
Prof Dangwal said the academic faculty members need to build industrial and skills linkages so that students can gain and apply their knowledge in the real world and get adequate opportunities to gain professional experience that will be valuable to their future, their career and for the development of the nation at large.
Stating that it is important to give a serious thought to understand this relationship and several issues involved, Dr Dr Kalaiselvi said academia-industry interface and collaborations can play a lead role towards the growth and development of the national economy. It is in research and academic institutions where knowledge and innovations are created but the same has to be taken to people by the industry and marketplace for social benefits of all. “That is why we need to understand and work towards these synergies and collaborations,” she said.
Dr. Kalaiselvi emphasized on the importance of internships, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurship opportunities facilitated by collaborations with the industry where students can enhance their employability with practical experience and networking opportunities.
Over 400 students, research scholars, scientists from different institutes along with various dignitaries participated in the colloquium which was also addressed by Prof Harendra Singh Bisht, Director CSIR-IIP, and Prof. Pradeep Kumar Director CSIR-CBRI.
Dr. Arun Kumar, Head of the Department of Chemistry, introduced the theme and the guests in the colloquium attended by Registrar Dr MS Mandrawal and university faculty members and administrative staff. The programme was moderated by the students of the School of Physical Sciences.