Dr SuryaPrakash Rao Gurram is the Head of the Department at Marri Laxman Reddy Institute of Technology and Management. With 25 years of experience, he has three years of experience in the industry. When not teaching, he guides PhD students and has ten publications in journals. He has also published a book and funded a project.

Marri Laxman Reddy Institute of Technology

What are the special practices at the MLRITM institution that you observed that you would like to highlight?

We have an innovation centre meant to develop innovative ideas in students. We have set up a performance appraisal system for faculty members and take feedback from all our stakeholders at regular intervals. We focus on Research and Development and have a system established to develop good projects that support the environment &society with cost-effectiveness. We organise regular training and mock interview sessions to make students employable. Our unique mentoring system counsels and keeps a constant eye on student progress. Moreover, our well-equipped laboratories will give the students exposure to the upcoming manufacturing processes.

Technology is going through a lot of dynamic changes these days, what steps are you taking in order to be updated with the latest trends and incorporate them into the curriculum at MLRITM?

The mechanical department has 11 well-equipped laboratories and sufficient classrooms with multi-media projectors. Our seminar hall can hold a number of students at the same time and we have modern, state-of-the-art classrooms. The department is known for its outstanding laboratories, and each lab is equipped with computers with the latest software, instruments, and multi-media projectors. The mechanical department also strives for excellence in the technical field.

What are the current biggest challenges in the field of Mechanical Engineering domain in general, and how do you plan to address them as a HOD?

Mechanical engineering is at the forefront of developing the latest technology. The future of Mechanical engineering will be bright with technological advancements. We have 3D printing machines and teach students about artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, Nanotechnology, computer-aided engineering, the Internet of Things, and geomechanics. As a HOD, I take measures to implement new technological advancements in the department of Mechanical Engineering.

How do you collaborate with industries and other academic institutions to provide practical exposure and internships for your students?

Collaborations with industries and other academic institutions play a significant role in providing practical exposure and internships for students. These experiences offer a chance to work in a real work environment, develop essential skills, and help to understand industry experiences. We also have industrial visits which enable students to understand how industries operate and help them to get exposed to various aspects of the business. We also facilitate research and development activities.

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How do you support and encourage the students at mechanical department towards Innovation?

Mechanical engineering education programmes should keep up with the pace of globalisation and technological advancement. I encourage and support students to shift from traditional methods to innovative technological advancements. Students need to enhance their knowledge and skills. These projects with innovative ideas could help enhance equity in access to and use of education as well as equality in learning outcomes.

You are an individual who is actively involved into research and publications. How do you promote the culture if research activities among students?

I believe that fostering a culture of research among students is essential for their holistic development. To promote research activities, we implement a research oriented curriculum. We integrate research-oriented components into the curriculum, exposing students to fundamental research concepts and methodologies. Our experienced faculty members guide students in identifying research interests and topics aligned with the latest trends in mechanical engineering. Collaborating with industries exposes students to practical challenges, motivating them to seek innovative solutions through research.

What is your vision as a HOD of mechanical engineering for the coming years at MLRITM?

My vision for the Mechanical Engineering department at MLRITM in the coming years is to establish it as a centre of excellence, producing technically skilled and socially responsible engineers. To achieve this, I aim to continuously update the curriculum to incorporate the latest technological advancements, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the evolving industry landscape. Additionally, I plan to encourage and facilitate impactful research that addresses global challenges while fostering a spirit of inquiry and innovation among students and faculty. I wish to strengthen ties with industries that will lead to more practical exposure, internships, and collaborative research, bridging the gap between academia and industry. Moreover, I aspire to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset among students, encouraging them to develop their own startups and contribute to economic growth.