IIT Ropar and ICES collaborate on AI Skills Training Initiatives

Ropar : Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar (IIT Ropar) and The Institution of Civil Engineers Society (ICES) recognized Awarding Body of NCVET (National Council for Vocational Education and Training), Ministry of Skill Development, Govt. of India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to offer Artificial Intelligence Skills training and certification programs for engineering college and ToT for college educators.

This landmark collaboration is dedicated to advancing the skills of engineers by providing them with credits in subjects approved by the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) and also enhancing their employability and contributing to the growth of the industry.

This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signifies a significant step towards the integration of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to give profound meaning to students’ academic and professional lives. Under this MoU, IIT Ropar will develop and conduct AI minor programs for engineering students, while ICES will provide expertise and resources to support the training. The certification will be jointly offered by IIT Ropar and ICES, recognized by the National Council for Vocational Education and Training.

This initiative will benefit students across all engineering disciplines, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of Al applications in their field. The program will also include Training of Trainers (ToT) for faculty members, ensuring the sustainability and scalability of the initiative.

“We are thrilled to partner with ICES to offer this innovative program”, said Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar. Our Goal is to empower the next generation of Engineers with AI skills, making them industry ready and future- proof.

“This collaboration with The Institution of Civil Engineers is a pivotal moment for us,” said, Dr. Pushpendra P. Singh, Dean (Research and Development), IIT Ropar. “By leveraging the NCVET and NEP frameworks, we are equipping our engineers with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers. This initiative will not only benefit our students but also set a precedent for other institutions.”

The focus on skilling will encompass a wide range of competencies, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet industry demands. Moreover, this partnership will play a crucial role in training the trainers from other All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) approved colleges, thereby expanding the reach and impact of this initiative.

“The synergy between IIT Ropar and ICE will bridge the gap between Academic Learning and Industry Requirements,” added Dr. S. L Swamy, President of ICES. “Our joint efforts will create a robust framework for Skill Development, ensuring that our engineers are not only employable but also capable of driving innovation in their respective fields.”

By fostering Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy among trainers and students in the upcoming academic year, IIT Ropar and ICES aims to lead the transformation of technical education in India.

In MoU Signing Ceremony, Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar, Dr. Pushpendra P. Singh, Dean (Research & Development), IIT Ropar, Dr. Sagar Rohidas Chavan, HoD, Department of Civil Engineering Dr. Reet Kamal Tiwari, Asst. Prof. Department of Civil Engineering, Dr. Sudarshan Iyengar, HoD, Department of Computer Science and Technology, Dr. S.L. Swamy, President, ICES, Gen. Harpal Singh (Retd.), Vice Chairman, ICE, Mr. Sagar Singh Thakur, Secretary ,ICE, Mr. N. Deshpande, Director, ICES, Dr. Gurdeep Singh with other faculty members of IIT Ropar and ICES were present.