Dr. V. Karpagam is currently a Professor and Head of the Department of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science at Sri Ramakrishna Engineering College, Coimbatore. Her academic experience spans 25 years. Dr. Karpagam completed a PhD in the Faculty of Information and Communication Engineering from Anna University, Chennai, in 2014. She also obtained her Master’s degree in Software Engineering from Sri Ramakrishna Engineering College, Coimbatore, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore.

Dr. Karpagam is a recognised Anna University Supervisor and is currently guiding five scholars in the domains of Artificial Intelligence, Medical Image Processing, and Cyber Security. Her research and teaching interests include Computer Vision, Deep Learning, Database Technologies, Cyber Security, and Health Analytics.

Dr. V. Karpagam

As a HOD, what are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

As the HOD of the Artificial Intelligence and Data Science department at our college, my primary role and responsibility towards the students is to provide them with a strong academic foundation in the field of AI and DS. I strive to ensure that the curriculum is comprehensive and up-to-date, covering both theoretical concepts and practical applications. I am committed to creating a conducive learning environment, where students can engage in critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on experimentation. I also play a supportive role by guiding and mentoring students, helping them identify their strengths and interests within the AI-DS domain. Additionally, I encourage students to explore research opportunities, participate in projects, and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. Overall, my aim is to empower students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the AI-DS industry.
Check: Sri Ramakrishna Engineering College - [SREC], Coimbatore - Course & Fees Details

How do you tend to establish healthy relations with the students and fellow faculty?

I believe in establishing healthy relationships with both students and fellow faculty members. I promote a culture of encouragement and provide a broad platform for open communication, which facilitates the exchange of innovative ideas. I actively engage with students, encouraging them to share their thoughts, concerns, and ideas.

I am approachable and accessible, ensuring that students feel comfortable reaching out to me for guidance and support. Similarly, I foster collaboration and teamwork among the faculty members, promoting a supportive environment where ideas can be freely shared and discussed.

What are the best practices offered by the department for the student’s skill development?

We have implemented several best practices to enhance the skill development of our students. One such practice is project-based learning, where students work on real-world projects that span from ideation to product creation, allowing them to apply their knowledge in practical scenarios. We also emphasise innovative pedagogy, including induction programs, classroom teaching, guest lectures, assignments, presentations, group discussions, tutorials, industrial talks, and industry visits, to provide a holistic learning experience. Additionally, we conduct career guidance seminars and workshops to enhance employability skills, aptitude, and soft skill development. Furthermore, we organise technical events to showcase the technical talent of our students and foster a competitive and collaborative environment. These best practices ensure that our students acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for successful careers in the fields of AI and DS.
Check: Sri Ramakrishna Engineering College (SREC) Coimbatore Admissions 2023: UG & PG Admission

What is your vision for this department?

My vision for this department is to receive recognition for being a centre of excellence. We want to help prepare students to be well-rounded professionals but, more importantly, lifelong learners. Our goal is also to nurture and empower faculty teams and students in their academic and professional endeavours. The college also wants to provide a climate that encourages innovation and research.

What do you see as the department’s greatest strengths and how can they be enhanced?

Our greatest strength lies in our dedicated and passionate faculty members, who are committed to promoting research methodologies and driving educational reforms. They bring their expertise and industry experience to the classroom, ensuring that students receive the most up-to-date knowledge and practical insights. To further enhance this strength, we can focus on encouraging faculty members to engage in collaborative research projects, publish research papers, and participate in conferences and workshops. We provide opportunities for faculty development through attending training programs and acquiring advanced certifications, which can also enhance their skills and expertise. We also try to foster a culture of continuous learning and research, we can further strengthen our department and offer an enriching academic experience to our students.
Check: Sri Ramakrishna Engineering College - [SREC], Coimbatore - Placement Details And Companies Visiting

How does the department enhance the skills of the faculty, according to the industry needs?

We prioritise the continuous skill enhancement of our faculty members to align with the evolving industry needs. We achieve this by organising various Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) and training modules that focus on the latest technologies, tools, and methodologies relevant to the field of AIDS. These programs are designed to update faculty members with emerging trends and best practices in the industry. Additionally, we provide financial support and incentives to encourage faculty members to pursue research and development activities in their areas of interest. By empowering our faculty through skill development initiatives, we ensure they are equipped to deliver quality education and meet industry demands effectively.

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

By pursuing this course, students gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills in artificial intelligence, data science, machine learning, and related domains. This course equips them with the necessary expertise to thrive in the industry. The field of AI and DS is witnessing tremendous growth, and there is a high demand for professionals with these skills. Graduates can explore career opportunities as data scientists, AI Engineers, Machine Learning Specialists, Data Analysts, Research Scientists, nd Consultants in various industries such as healthcare, finance, technology, and e-commerce. They can also pursue higher studies and research in AI and DS, opening up opportunities for academic and research-oriented careers.