By Our Correspondent
Varanasi: In an endeavor to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry practices, the School of Biochemical Engineering at IIT (BHU) Varanasi hosted a dynamic Student Enrichment Activity – Industry Expert Interaction on 04.10.2023. The event brought together aspiring students and a seasoned industry professional – Mr. Rajesh Date of SFC Environmental Technologies, Mumbai who has worked extensively in Engineering Industries (Forging, Machining, Auto Components) for 10 years and 25 years in Oil and gas (Projects, Marketing, and Distribution), creating an atmosphere of mutual learning and knowledge sharing.
The interaction was not just limited to one-way lectures; it involved interactive discussions and Q&A sessions, allowing students to directly engage with the expert. This facilitated a vibrant exchange of ideas and perspectives. Students had the opportunity to pose questions, seek guidance on career paths, and gain a deeper understanding of industry trends and challenges.
One of the highlights of the event was the emphasis on real-world relevance. Industry expert delved into case studies, shared anecdotes from his 35-year-long career, and provided insights into how classroom knowledge can be applied to solve practical problems. This approach resonated with students, who found it immensely beneficial in connecting their academic learning to the professional world.
Prof. Vikash Kumar Dubey, Dean R&D and Coordinator of the School of Biochemical Engineering highlighted the significance of such initiatives. “Our goal is to empower our students to become future leaders in their respective fields. By facilitating interactions with industry experts, we not only enhance their academic knowledge but also nurture their soft skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities,” said Prof. Dubey.
Student feedback about the event was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn from accomplished professionals. “I gained a deeper insight into the engineering industry’s current trends and challenges. The interactive nature of the session made it a fantastic learning experience” – said one of the second-year engineering student present at the event.
Prof. Pramod Kumar Jain, Director, IIT-BHU applauded this innovative student enrichment activity facilitating knowledge exchange. “These interactions are seen as an integral part of our institute’s commitment to holistic education, equipping students not just with bookish knowledge but also with the skills and insights needed to excel in their careers,” said Prof. Jain.
The Industry Expert Interaction was a resounding success, bringing academia and industry closer together. School of Biochemical Engineering plans to continue organizing such Student Enrichment Activities in the future as well. It served as a reminder that knowledge is not limited to textbooks but is a dynamic, ever-evolving entity that can be enriched through real-world experiences and the wisdom of experts.
