Please walk us through the journey of establishing Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) since its inception in 1992 and give insights into the various courses introduced over the years.
KIIT was established in 1992 as a vocational training centre with only two staff and 12 students. However, it took shape as an institution only in 1997, when the degree engineering programme commenced. KIIT owes its existence to the grand vision of its Hon’ble Founder Prof. (Dr.) Achyuta Samanta, who with no land and limited finances (only Rs. 5000), created an institution for the benefit of the society. From these small beginnings, KIIT has developed into a leading university with an inter-disciplinary culture and a commitment to teaching excellence.
The university has a history that began in 1992 as a vocational training centre. That year, the KIIT Society was registered, and KIIT-ITI was established, marking the foundation of the institution. In 1995, KIIT Polytechnic came into existence, followed by the commencement of the degree engineering programme in 1997, which shaped KIIT into a full-fledged institution. In 2004, the Ministry of HRD, Government of India, recognised KIIT as a Deemed University. The institute expanded in 2007 with the establishment of the Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences (KIDS), the School of Rural Management, School of Biotechnology and School of Law, and then it continues to grow and achieve new heights.
The University offers more than 250 degree programmes in Under Graduate Degree, Post Graduate Degree, Doctoral Programme and Post-Doctoral Programme, via over 30 schools in the subject areas like Science, Technology, Engineering, Biotechnology, Business Management, Rural Management, Leadership, Law, Medical, Dental, Nursing, Public Health, Public Policy, Fashion, Media, Mass Communication, Design, Languages, Liberal Studies, Arts & Humanities, Performing Arts, Fine Arts, etc.
What are some pivotal challenges you faced early in your career, and how did those shape your professional growth?
Some critical issues and challenges are mentioned below (these were the pitfalls of the earlier educational systems of 80s/90s):
- Inadequate career guidance/counselling and mentoring
- Lack of ample in-campus job/higher-education opportunities
- Absence of multi-disciplinary learning environment
- Absenteeism of qualitative (not quantitative) approaches to knowledge delivery, with limited opportunities for innovation, creativity and research-oriented exploration
As someone deeply invested in the educational field, what has been the most fulfilling moment of your journey so far?
- Establishment of fully-dedicated KIIT Kareer School (erstwhile CAAS – Career Augmentation & Advisory Services): An end-to-end solution for an effective career mentoring, industry-readiness training and successful initiative to meet the aspirations of KIIT students
- Establishment of KIIT Industry Engagement Cell (IEC) marks a significant step in connecting with industry partners to enhance the student lifecycle. The initiative focussed on motivating faculty to engage with industry leaders, ensuring that insights from the market were incorporated into university practices. This has transformed the teaching-learning process at KIIT, enabling collaborations that benefit all stakeholders. A notable outcome is the HighRadius FinTech Lab/COE, where over 1,000 KIIT students gain experiential learning on campus, making them industry-ready and increasing opportunities for Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs). This initiative has positively impacted average campus placement CTC and increased Day Zero/Dream offers.
How does KIIT incorporate experiential learning into the curriculum and how important do you think it is?
KIIT University incorporates experiential learning into its curriculum through various innovative approaches:
a) Industry collaborations and internships:
- Industry partnerships: KIIT has strong ties with leading industries, enabling students to gain practical exposure through internships and projects.
- Real-world projects: Students collaborate with industry professionals on real-world projects, applying theoretical knowledge to practical challenges.
b) Research and innovation:
- Research centres and industry-led COEs: KIIT houses numerous research centres and COEs (Centres of Excellence) which are supported by industry, and where students can participate in cutting-edge research, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills.
- COIRs: The Centre of Innovation & Research (COIR) provides a platform for students to engage in advanced research alongside leading scientists and faculty members. It aligns students with global research trends, enabling them to ideate, prototype and commercialise innovative solutions.
c) Hands-on learning activities:
- Labs and workshops: Well-equipped laboratories and workshops offer hands-on training in various disciplines, reinforcing theoretical concepts.
- Simulation-based learning: Simulated environments allow students to practice real-world scenarios, enhancing decision-making and critical thinking abilities.
- Technology Business Incubation (TBI): Specialised facility designed to nurture and support technology-based startups in their early stages
- Student research centre: Students are encouraged to undertake experiential learning via capstone projects from industry and research organisations
- Student activity centre: Students are members of over 30 club activities for 360-degree holistic learning and development. An innovative initiative titled, K-Explore has been a huge hit among students in this regard where they choose a club and learn the associated skills (technical/non-technical) of their choice and interest.
d) Experiential learning programmes:
- Study abroad programmes: Students can gain international exposure and cultural understanding through exchange programmes with renowned universities worldwide.
- Semester internship programme: Students undertake a semester internship with various corporate, industries and research organisations, including foreign institutions (study abroad twinning programme of UGC).
- Field trips and industrial visits: Organised field trips and industrial visits provide first-hand insights into industry practices and operations.
e) Community engagement:
- Social initiatives: Students participate in community service projects, developing empathy and social responsibility.
- Entrepreneurship development: Programmes like the KIIT Incubator encourage students to start their own ventures, fostering entrepreneurial skills.
- Community development courses: Students undergo a compulsory community development project coursework and go to remote villages and towns to work on SDGs.
By integrating these experiential learning approaches, KIIT University aims to equip its students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
How does KIIT collaborate with industries or international institutions to offer students a broader learning experience? Please share some of KIIT’s strategies to support diversity and inclusivity on campus with us.
KIIT University actively collaborates with industries and international institutions to provide students with a broader learning experience. The Kareer School/Industry Engagement Cell, equipped with top trainers, focusses on soft skills, personality development, communication, technology and high-end programming from the first year. Online platforms prepare students to meet industry standards, offering performance analytics, problem-solving training and preparation for competitive exams, including civil services. Collaborations with over 70 corporates and 250 institutions worldwide support joint programmes in Industry 4.0 and research projects worth over Rs 70 crore. KIIT also supports start-ups through K-Hub, promoting internships and industry readiness. Faculty engagement includes publishing over 13,500 research papers and achieving global recognition, with 24 faculty members listed among Stanford University’s top two per cent of scientists.
Internationally, KIIT partners with 170 globally-ranked institutions, offering pathway programmes and joint degrees. The International Relations Office (IRO) assists foreign students, while the Visiting Faculty Program Office (VFPO) facilitates faculty exchanges, enhancing academic and research engagement. Faculty and students receive funding for participation in international events. KIIT also emphasises online learning through KIITX, developing Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and subscribing to platforms like Coursera and Swayam for self-paced education.
To foster inclusivity, KIIT enforces anti-discrimination policies, supports students with disabilities and promotes diversity through committees, cultural exchange programmes and international student recruitment. Scholarships, mentorship and student organisations aid under-represented groups, while NEP 2020-compliant curricula provide holistic and multi-disciplinary education. Inclusive teaching methods and diverse perspectives in the curriculum further ensure equitable learning opportunities. Through these initiatives, KIIT creates a diverse, inclusive campus environment that prepares students for global challenges.
Being in the dynamic, internet consuming world, how is KIIT supporting its students’ mental well-being, especially when students come from across India, and what role does emotional intelligence play in their academic experience?
KIIT University prioritises students’ mental well-being, especially for those from diverse backgrounds, by implementing comprehensive mental health support strategies. The university offers counselling services, including one-on-one sessions, group therapy and workshops on stress management, anxiety and depression. Additionally, it collaborates with KIMS to provide psychiatric care for students requiring specialised attention.
Recognising the role of emotional intelligence in academic success, KIIT promotes activities like workshops, mindfulness and meditation sessions, yoga and physical activities to help students manage stress, enhance focus and build positive relationships. Emotional intelligence also supports better mentor-mentee communication, effective problem-solving and stress management. Through these initiatives, KIIT fosters a supportive and nurturing environment for students’ academic and personal growth.
How does KIIT ensure its academic programmes align with the current global standards and industry trends?
KIIT University employs several strategies to ensure its academic programmes align with global standards and industry trends:
- Regular curriculum review and industry involvement: The university regularly reviews its curriculum every three years through the Board of Studies, Academic Council, Executive Council and Industry Advisory Boards, in line with UGC requirements. Each school and department conducts independent curriculum workshops with industry experts to suggest updates. The Voice Of Industry (VOI) is considered and necessary changes are implemented by the Committee on UG-PG Programmes and the Director of Academics. Industry experts, many of whom serve as Professors of Practice, play a crucial role in this process.
- International accreditations: KIIT has received international accreditations from IET UK and ABET US, along with a six-year NBA accreditation and an A++ grade from NAAC. These accreditations support the quality of student lifecycle and teaching-learning goals. The university has implemented Outcome-Based Education (OBE) for over a decade, ensuring academic rigour.
- Faculty development: The university has a dedicated Director-Faculty Development office that collaborates with IQAC and the Vice Chancellor’s office. Its mission aligns with the 25-year Institutional Development Plan, broken into five-year increments. Regular training sessions on soft skills, domain expertise, Industry 4.0 skills and leadership are conducted throughout the year to enhance capacity building at KIIT.
- Industry partnerships: KIIT Kareer School supports students from their first year by enhancing soft skills, personality development, communication and high-end programming skills tailored to industry needs. The Industry Engagement Cell collaborates with over 70 national and international corporations for electives and specialisations in Industry 4.0. It also offers co-branded PG/M.Tech programmes to ensure industry readiness. Online platforms are utilised to prepare students for the workforce from day one, featuring built-in analytics that foster problem-solving skills and an entrepreneurial mindset.
dorina@thefoundermedia.in
