Minister R. Bindu bats for cross-cultural collaborations in advancing technological research
Higher Education and Social Justice Minister R. Bindu has highlighted the pivotal role of cross-cultural and global collaborations in shaping the future of technological research and industry partnerships.
Inaugurating ‘Udyama 1.0.’, a four-day industry-academia-government conclave on technical education here on Saturday, Dr. Bindu underscored the need to harness the power of cultural diversity in fostering innovation.
Ground breaking ideas, she pointed out, often emerge when people from different cultural backgrounds come together to address a shared problem. The diversity of thought that arises from such interactions can lead to more creative solutions and a deeper understanding of complex issues.
“In today’s interconnected world, products and solutions must cater to a global audience. When multiple cultures and expertise come together, innovations are more likely to be versatile and adaptable to different markets and contexts, making them more successful worldwide. By including diverse cultures and perspectives in innovation processes, solutions are more likely to be inclusive and equitable, addressing the needs of marginalised or under-represented groups. This creates innovations that benefit a broader range of people,” she said.
Stressing on the relevance of cross-border collaborations in addressing global challenges, she said for joint efforts for the fight against climate change, cyber security threats and healthcare crises.
In discussing emerging technologies like AI and biotechnology, the Minister emphasised the ethical challenges these innovations present. As these fields advance, they raise important questions about fairness, transparency, and accountability. Addressing these challenges, she argued, requires collaboration between experts from various fields, including ethicists, engineers, researchers, and policymakers.
Former chairperson of All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) Anil D. Sahasrabuddhe, who currently heads the National Educational Technology Forum, urged policy makers to ensure the autonomy of higher education institutions in his keynote address.
“The institutions should have the freedom to create their curriculum in a manner that is useful to industry, society and the government. They should also have regular curriculum revisions involving industry, alumni, student and faculty members,” he said.
He also proposed creating courses in which students engage in self-learning. One or two courses could be made electives, for which there are no teachers and the students could pursue courses from the SWAYAM platform or any other sources. The industry must also provide adequate internship opportunities for students. Prof. Sahasrabuddhe said.
Principal Secretary (Higher Education) Ishita Roy presided over the inaugural session. Director of Technical Education Shalij P.R. and Tata Elxsi centre head and GTech secretary Sreekumar V. also spoke.
Published – December 07, 2024 08:27 pm IST
