‘Technology answer to faculty crunch’

The President noted that the problem of faculty crunch in institutes of higher education can be solved by using technology. He suggested that a faculty member in one institution can teach students of other institutions through video conferencing. He also pointed out the absence of any Indian institute in top 200 universities of the world and reminded the students that India has,in the past,been home to some of the best centres of learning like Nalanda and Takshila universities. He said that for India to become a knowledge powerhouse,promotion of basic research and innovation,and development of cutting-edge technologies are essential.

According to the President,there is a need for the research-based institutions to adopt a more people-centric approach,which should render their innovations relevant to the common man.

He appreciated IIT Kanpur’s projects like management plan for National Ganga River Basin,solar energy initiatives and zero-discharge toilet system,which was a great success in the recently concluded Maha Kumbh Mela in Allahabad.

The president further advised the students wishing to go abroad for higher studies to “retain the sacred link with their motherland”. He reminded the students that they have a responsibility towards the nation and that they must contribute towards its development.

On the occasion,the President awarded Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) to N R Narayana Murthy,founder and executive chairman of Infosys,who is also an alumnus of IIT Kanpur,and to eminent physicist Ashoke Sen. A total of 1,327 students were awarded the degrees during the convocation ceremony.