The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has once again been rated as the top higher education institution in India, marking its sixth consecutive year at the top in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024. The institute also continues to lead in the ‘engineering’ category for the ninth year running, and it secured the second position in both ‘research’ and ‘innovation’ categories. Prof. V Kamakoti, Director of IIT-Madras, shared insights with News18 on the institute’s continued success, future challenges, and the evolving landscape of education and employment.
Q: What contributes to IIT-Madras’s consistent top rankings?
Prof. V Kamakoti: Our success is the result of a cohesive effort involving faculty, students, various ministries, industry partners, and alumni. Every parameter of our ranking benefits from contributions across these groups. We have a strategic plan that targets specific areas of improvement and innovation, which helps us maintain our top position.
Q: What is your next challenge and area of focus for improvement?
Prof. V Kamakoti: We aim to improve our position in the ‘innovation’ category, where we have been second consecutively. We are analyzing why we are not number one and looking at best practices from top institutions like IIT-Bombay. We also strive to enhance our research output to compete with institutions like IISc, Bengaluru, which focus more on postgraduate research.
Q: Are international rankings a priority for IIT-Madras?
Prof. V Kamakoti: While international rankings are important, our primary focus remains on national priorities. We are committed to improving our global standing without compromising on national objectives like launching online courses and promoting inclusive education. Our priorities are shaped by India’s unique demographic and educational needs, which are well-represented in the NIRF.
Q: How does IIT-Madras stand in terms of international research output and quality?
Prof. V Kamakoti: IIT-Madras has made significant strides in research, exemplified by innovations like the 3D-printed rocket developed by a startup incubated here. Our research efforts also emphasize translational research, focusing on developing patents and commercializing research outcomes. We are committed to translating academic research into practical, societal benefits.
Q: Has there been any improvement regarding students’ preference for core engineering branches?
Prof. V Kamakoti: There has been a positive shift. The introduction of initiatives like the startup-100 program has encouraged students to pursue core engineering jobs. We are seeing a growing trend of students committed to their chosen disciplines and engaging in entrepreneurial activities.
Q: How do you perceive the impact of AI on future job markets?
Prof. V Kamakoti: Similar to the impact of computerization in banking, AI will enhance job quality by automating mundane tasks and creating opportunities for more engaging work. AI is a form of hyper-automation that will lead to new job creation and require upskilling and reskilling. It will continue to drive change and innovation in the engineering field.
Prof. Kamakoti’s insights underscore IIT-Madras’s commitment to excellence and adaptation in a rapidly evolving educational and technological landscape.
