Media Release
Udupi, May 6: The Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Mangaluru, and Shri Madhwa Vadiraja Institute of Technology and Management (SMVITM), Udupi, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the SMVITM campus in Bantakal, Udupi on May 5. This landmark agreement signifies a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening the connection between academic institutions and the business world.
The MoU was officially signed by Anand G Pai, president of KCCI, and Dr Thirumaleshwara Bhat, principal of SMVITM. The ceremony was attended by key representatives from both organisations, highlighting the significance of this collaboration.
This partnership underscores the shared commitment of KCCI and SMVITM to equip students with the practical skills and industry knowledge necessary for success in the modern workforce. Both organisations recognise the critical role of academic-industry collaborations in ensuring curriculum relevance, fostering innovation, and driving regional economic growth.
Dr Radhakrishna Aithal, CEO of Shri Sode Vadiraja Math Group of Educational Institutions, emphasised the value of increased student interaction with industry through KCCI's network. He highlighted the disparity between academic understanding and industry expectations, stating that such collaborations are crucial for making students "industry ready" and addressing the challenge of employability.
SMVITM aims to facilitate internships, project work, and industry visits for students through this MoU, while also exploring brand building initiatives like joint tech conclaves support for women in engineering, and expert guest lectures.
Anand Pai, president of KCCI, spoke about the chamber's long-standing mission since 1940 to support businesses, promote economic development, and represent the interests of the trade and business community of the region.
He acknowledged the significant challenge of securing the right talent and outlined KCCI's efforts to bridge the gap between academia and industry through knowledge camps and certification programs. Pai also discussed the evolving industry landscape, the importance of continuous skill upgradation, and the potential for the region to become a "Silicon Beach," driven by innovation and entrepreneurship. He stressed the need to integrate core engineering disciplines with emerging fields like AI to strengthen the region's economic profile and prevent brain drain.