Innovation in Action - IIT Gandhinagar’s Research Frontier

In this exclusive Q&A session with Minu Sirsalewala, Executive Editor – Special Projects, Dataquest, we sit down with the Director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar, Rajat Moona to unravel the institute’s innovative approaches to digital transformation, skill development, research, and its pivotal role in shaping the future of technology.

What initiatives has IIT Gandhinagar implemented for digital transformation and relevance to the evolving job market?

IIT Gandhinagar has prioritized multidisciplinary education, incorporating humanities and sciences alongside engineering. This approach ensures a holistic understanding of societal needs, fostering leadership and innovation. Many students have successfully launched startups, emphasizing the institute’s commitment to producing well-rounded professionals aligned with industry demands.

In today’s tech-centric world, the reliance on digital platforms is undeniable. India’s successful digital payment program, led by the government, has made transactions globally accessible. However, this digital shift brings about a divide, with older individuals finding it challenging to adapt.

How is IIT Gandhinagar developing students’ leadership, communication, and teamwork skills, particularly in the digital space?

In today’s tech-centric world, the reliance on digital platforms is undeniable. India’s successful digital payment program, led by the government, has made transactions globally accessible. However, this digital shift brings about a divide, with older individuals finding it challenging to adapt. Recognizing this, IIT Gandhinagar prioritizes skill development for societal benefit, ensuring inclusivity.

The institute encourages students to engage in digital innovations, incorporating computer-based education within and outside classrooms. Degrees are exclusively awarded in a digital format, stored on the DigiLocker platform for easy access, verification, and enhanced transparency. This digital transformation empowers students, eliminating the need for physical validation of academic credentials.

Moreover, understanding the paramount importance of cybersecurity and cyber technologies, IIT Gandhinagar has instilled a proactive approach. Early on, students are introduced to digital and computer technologies as integral components of their engineering education. This foresight aligns students with the evolving demands of cyberspace, enhancing their preparedness for the complexities of the digital age.

What digital transformation journey has IIT Gandhinagar undertaken post-pandemic?

IIT Gandhinagar had already embraced online education before the pandemic, facilitating a smooth transition to virtual classes. The institute successfully conducted exams online, ensuring students’ timely progression in their degrees. Currently, IIT Gandhinagar offers hybrid education and e-masters programs, emphasizing the institution’s adaptability to evolving educational needs.

What cybersecurity initiatives has IIT Gandhinagar implemented to safeguard data and educate students on secure practices?

IIT Gandhinagar prioritizes the security of critical data, employing secure platforms to mitigate potential threats. Students are exposed to various modern techniques for securing data, emphasizing verifiability, confidentiality, and secure software development. Digital degree certificates are signed by multiple authorities, ensuring their long-term verifiability and contributing to a culture of cybersecurity awareness.

Can you highlight innovative projects at IIT Gandhinagar contributing to technological advancements?

The institute has undertaken groundbreaking research in various fields, including cancer drug therapies, nanotechnologies for energy storage, hydrogen fuel generation, and 3D printing applications like creating bunkers for the Indian Army. The institute also contributes to archaeology, studying artefacts and materials to understand historical civilizations, and showcasing its diverse research ecosystem.

What message does IIT Gandhinagar have for the industry regarding the talent pool and collaboration opportunities?

We at IIT Gandhinagar acknowledge the historical shifts in Indian industry and emphasizes the current resurgence in high-tech manufacturing. The institute encourages closer collaboration between academia and industry, with ongoing research partnerships benefiting both parties. IIT Gandhinagar’s proximity to various industries fosters an environment conducive to meaningful collaboration, offering solutions to real-world problems.

The institute encourages closer collaboration between academia and industry, with ongoing research partnerships benefiting both parties. IIT Gandhinagar’s proximity to various industries fosters an environment conducive to meaningful collaboration, offering solutions to real-world problems.

What challenges do you foresee, and what is the mindset required to address them?

The perceived challenges are more about mindset than actual obstacles. Emphasizing the importance of an open mindset, the key lies in capitalizing on India’s capabilities to compete globally. The mindset shift, driven by a commitment to technological excellence, will propel Indian industry into a golden period. IIT Gandhinagar envisions this collaboration and mindset shift as crucial for the future success of both academia and industry.

Rajat Moona

Director, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar

Minus@cybermedia.co.in