Aligning education with industry ensures graduates are ready for impactful careers

Dr. Rajeev Tiwari, Dean of the School of Computer Science and Engineering at the Institute of Integrated Learning in Management (IILM) University underscores the vital integration of academia and industry, emphasizing the preparation of students for real-world applications in an interview with Education Post’s Pragya Kumari.

Q. Please take us through your journey in the field of Computer Science and Engineering, and what inspired you to pursue this path?

Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) has been a challenging field since its inception during my early years as a B.Tech CSE student in 2000. As a young engineer, I was driven by a strong desire to create innovative solutions that could improve community life. CSE has continuously evolved with dynamic tools and technologies, significantly impacting business and daily life.

My M.Tech. in CSE from Kurukshetra University in 2006 marked a pivotal time, witnessing advancements like video calls amidst transitioning networks from 3G to 4G. During my Ph.D. at Thapar University in 2011, I focused on enhancing wireless network service quality.

Over the years, from traditional languages like Cobol and Pascal to modern ones like Python and Go, CSE has facilitated transformative solutions such as e-banking and UPI, enriching lives and keeping me engaged in current and future technological advancements.

Q. How do you facilitate the seamless integration of academia and industry at IILM University, and why is this integration crucial for engineering students?

At IILM University, we prioritize aligning classroom teachings with industry demands to ensure our graduates are industry-ready. Our curricula, co-developed by academia and industry leaders like IBM, Infosys, and AWS, incorporate real-world skills and terminology.

Regular industry feedback shapes our experiential learning approach, allowing students to learn by doing in well-equipped labs. Our School of Computer Science and Engineering (SCSE) offers specialized programs in Machine Learning and Data Science, Computing and Security, and Applications, tailored to meet industry needs and prepare students for impactful careers.

Q. Given your research interests in Fog and IoT, Sensor Networks, and Next Gen AI & ML, what do you see as the most promising emerging technologies in these fields?

Next-generation networks like Edge/Fog computing, Cloud Computing, and 6G networks will continue to be pivotal in advancing technological capabilities. Technologies enabling mobile app-based solutions, business trend forecasting through Data Science, and predictive insights using Machine Learning are set to dominate the next 7 to 10 years. Advancements in Generative AI and Quantum Computing also hold immense promise for the future of CSE.

Q. You have a significant number of SCI journals and Scopus indexed publications. How do you balance your research with your teaching responsibilities, and what advice do you have for aspiring researchers?

Balancing research with teaching requires a passion for staying at the forefront of technological advancements. It involves dedicating time to deep research, experimentation, and regular reading of recent papers. Aspiring researchers should cultivate curiosity, continually question, innovate, and integrate research into their professional lives to remain relevant in the ever evolving field of technology.

Q. Tell us about some of the government-funded projects you are working on, particularly in the fields of Cloud, Healthcare, and Precision Agriculture.

I have initiated projects aimed at addressing societal challenges through technology. These include “Community Covid Resilience,” leveraging technology for health, hygiene, and empowerment during the pandemic. Projects in Precision Agriculture involve IoT sensors for soil monitoring and mobile-based alerts for farmers. Additionally, I have explored Deep Learning applications for personalized dietary recommendations based on health data like EEG signals.

Q. With your expertise in NAAC accreditations and NBA, how do these accreditations impact the quality of education provided at IILM University?

NAAC accredits the institution, while NBA accredits programs, ensuring adherence to high educational standards. At IILM, these accreditations drive continuous improvement in curriculum, teaching methodologies, and infrastructure alignment with industry benchmarks. They also enhance research opportunities through government funding, fostering a robust educational ecosystem.

Q. What are your thoughts on the recent biannual admission policy introduced by the UGC, and how do you think it will impact the engineering education landscape?

The UGC’s biannual admission policy is a progressive step towards enhancing flexibility and accessibility in higher education. While it aligns with global practices, it poses challenges such as scheduling adjustments, increased administrative workload, and maintaining teaching quality. However, it promises improved resource utilization, better facilities, and expanded opportunities for engineering aspirants, thereby strengthening the engineering education landscape.

Q. What advice would you give to high school students considering a career in engineering? What skills should they focus on developing?

High school students aspiring for a career in engineering should excel in math and science, foundational to engineering principles. They should nurture teamwork skills, essential for collaborative project work. Exploring various branches of Computer Science Engineering and staying updated on technological advancements through workshops and courses are crucial. Soft skills like communication are equally vital for sharing ideas effectively in the engineering field, ensuring a successful career trajectory.