Mr. Daniel Prabhakar Rao is the Dean of the Training and Placements department at K.G. Reddy College. During his interview, he shared his insights on his journey in the education industry and why he believes it is the best sector to work in. He highlighted that the college he works for prioritizes student opinions and values their feedback. This approach helps students understand the challenges they face and encourages them to come up with innovative solutions to excel. Additionally, he emphasized that students should not be burdened with excessive academic workloads for the sake of achieving good grades. Instead, they should be encouraged to explore beyond their textbooks and develop innovative ideas. This helps students build their aptitude, a quality that recruiters look for in candidates. He concluded by stating that he aims to bring about a positive change in students by developing their mindset towards their careers and other significant domains.

K G Reddy College of Engineering and Technology

What is the latest program that you are offering in your institute/dept. which will help students outperform and stand apart from the crowd.

KG Reddy College of Engineering and Technology's latest program, the Center for Innovation and Social Transformation (CIST), sets itself apart by focusing on a holistic process rather than a specific course. This initiative enhances students' industry-relevant skills, emphasizing problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical reasoning. In multidisciplinary projects, students from diverse departments collaborate to address real-world challenges in neighboring communities. This hands-on approach encourages the application of engineering knowledge to propose solutions. The program aligns with corporate demands, preparing students for professional scenarios by emphasizing effective questioning and problem analysis. Beyond skill development, the college aims to cultivate innovation and entrepreneurship. An incubation center facilitates the development of student-generated ideas into viable business models, offering a pathway for aspiring entrepreneurs. 

What are the factors that make this program the best for the students to opt for?

The factors that make the Center for Innovation and Social Transformation (CIST) program at KG Reddy College the best choice for students include its departure from monotonous classroom teaching. Instead, it offers an engaging, activity-based approach where students collaborate on real-time problems. The program's emphasis on meeting new people, especially in village communities, provides students with diverse perspectives and inputs. Unlike traditional academic projects, CIST encourages students to actively participate, fostering a deeper understanding of problem-solving skills. The satisfaction derived from solving real-world issues adds a practical dimension to their learning experience. By immersing themselves in hands-on activities and interacting with various individuals, students unconsciously acquire the essential skills required for personal and professional growth. Overall, the program's dynamic nature, real-world application, and diverse interactions make it an exceptional choice for students seeking a unique and enriching educational experience.

What will you say are the “best practices” in the course you’re offering? 

The "best practices" in our offered program, the Center for Innovation and Social Transformation (CIST), include promoting multidisciplinary collaboration. Students have the flexibility to undertake short-term courses, addressing specific needs like a mechanical engineer learning cybersecurity or IoT, fostering solution-specific learning. This approach is not brand-specific, allowing students to choose technologies based on their interests. Peer learning is encouraged, enriching the educational experience. Valuable insights from the program include a focus on the design process, multidisciplinary collaboration, and the integration of certification courses. The emphasis on logical thinking, problem-solving, and critical thinking further enhances the program's depth. Overall, these practices provide students with a well-rounded, adaptable skill set and a dynamic learning environment.

What are some valuable insights interesting to be able to make a difference in the past two days of a sudden the other day of the dead in my head to be another program that you are offering at your institute/ dept.?

The valuable insights from our program at KG Reddy College of Engineering and Technology encompass key elements such as the design process, emphasizing a structured approach to problem-solving. The program's multidisciplinary nature stands out, encouraging collaboration among students from diverse academic backgrounds. Additionally, the integration of certification courses adds a practical and industry-relevant dimension to the curriculum. The emphasis on logical thinking and critical thinking further distinguishes our program, fostering a holistic development of cognitive skills. Overall, these insights underscore the program's commitment to providing students with a comprehensive and well-rounded educational experience, equipping them with the skills necessary for success in a dynamic and evolving professional landscape.

Check K G Reddy College of Engineering and Technology Faculty

How does the program ensure that students are being prepared for the future?

Certainly, our program goes beyond merely providing certifications; it equips students for the future by offering a transformative experience. The emphasis on practical problem-solving and multidisciplinary projects prepares students for the evolving job market. The program's unique approach, encouraging students to identify innovative solutions and potentially start their own ventures, aligns with current trends. In today's competitive landscape, where high-package jobs are sought after, our program ensures that students are not only job-ready but also entrepreneurial-minded. Government initiatives to promote innovation and startups further complement this preparation. Ultimately, our students have the choice to enter the workforce with enhanced employability skills or embark on entrepreneurial journeys, contributing to their future success and making a positive impact on Indian progress.

How did you train yourself/ faculty to deliver this program to the students?

The key to delivering our program effectively involves mentorship and specialized training for faculty members. Mentorship plays a crucial role, where students presenting problem statements are connected with relevant industry experts for guidance. Interaction with these experts, coupled with reviews and feedback, ensures that students are well-prepared. Additionally, engaging with communities, especially in villages, requires efforts to convey the program's value and encourage openness in sharing problem statements. Faculty invest time in building rapport and understanding the local context. Training programs focus on enhancing students' communication skills, fostering teamwork, and providing the necessary mental support. Through these efforts, faculty members are equipped to guide students through the entire process, ensuring they are well-prepared and can effectively contribute to the program's objectives.

How do you tend to build an industry connection with this program? 

Building an industry connection for our program involves a strategic approach focused on problem statements and solutions. For instance, when students proposed a water body cleaning machine, we facilitated a connection with Telangana Works, collaborating with industry experts to refine the prototype. Similarly, for agricultural solutions, we engaged mechanical engineering, farming, and irrigation experts. After students visit villages and present innovative ideas, we organize a Project Expo, inviting industry experts and mentors. During this expo, industry professionals connect with students, asking pertinent questions to enhance project quality and provide valuable insights. This collaborative platform fosters a strong industry-student relationship, ensuring practical exposure, mentorship, and industry relevance in our program.

What were the challenges that you faced while inculcating this program in your curriculum?

Implementing this program in our curriculum posed several challenges. Firstly, transitioning from traditional classroom teaching to a hands-on, problem-solving approach required a paradigm shift for both students and faculty. The multifaceted nature of the program, involving collating problem statements, applying knowledge, and developing solutions, presented a complex set of challenges. Faculty and students needed to comprehend the program's value beyond mere visits to villages, understanding the importance of skill enhancement. Additionally, ensuring that students grasp the purpose of the program and don't merely go through the motions proved to be a hurdle. The collaborative aspect, where students from different disciplines align their understanding and work as a team, added another layer of complexity, requiring time and effort to meet project timelines. Despite these challenges, the program has been gradually overcoming obstacles, supported by mentorship, faculty guidance, and a growing understanding of the program's significance among students. 

What are the benefits and career options after pursuing this course?

The benefits and career options after pursuing this course are significant. The primary advantage lies in enhancing students' problem-solving skills, a crucial attribute sought by industries today. In various job sectors, including premier coding-related positions, companies prioritize candidates with strong logical thinking, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. While freshers may lack extensive technical expertise, they excel in these cognitive skills. The career options are diverse, spanning industries that value problem-solving and logical thinking. Graduates from this program are well-suited for roles in coding, technology, and other sectors where innovative solutions and critical thinking are paramount. The program not only prepares students for employment but also empowers them to explore entrepreneurial ventures, fostering a mindset of innovation and self-employment. Overall, the course equips students with versatile skills that open doors to a range of fulfilling career opportunities.