Tag: Pro-Vice-Chancellor

Orientation 3
Education, News

SRM University-AP inaugurates Freshmen Orientation Programme-2021

Aug 26, 2021 by Rekha Nair 0 Comments #Dr P Sathyanarayanan, #President; Prof V S Rao, #Pro-Vice-Chancellor, #Prof. V. S. Rao, #SRM University, #Vice-Chancellor and Prof D Narayana Rao

The grand virtual inauguration of the Freshmen Orientation Programme-2021 took place on August 25, 2021, at 2.30 pm. Dr P Sathyanarayanan, President; Prof V S Rao, Vice-Chancellor and Prof D Narayana Rao, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, welcomed the freshers into the university. The Orientation Programme will be continued till September 07, 2021.

In the Presidential address, Dr Sathyanarayan asserted SRM University’s latest achievements in Placement, Higher Studies and Entrepreneurship. Unlike many other universities, which concentrates on producing job-seeking graduates, SRM University-AP prefers to deliver job providers. Thus, this university gives grave emphasis on Entrepreneurial and Innovative activities. The university is proud of its budding entrepreneurs, founders of OurEye.ai, who secured an angel investment of $120000. SRM University-AP is unique in many ways, and that is one of the reasons that attract meritorious students to the university. SRM University-AP further offers special scholarships for brilliant students. The university gives equal importance to Placement-Higher Studies and Entrepreneurship to support the students in realising their dreams and potential. Dr Sathyanarayan believes that talent, discipline and opportunity can change a student’s future, provided he/she makes good use of it. “Stress on the hardwork, capitalise your talent with SRM University-AP’s experiential Programme to find success at your doorstep,” said Dr Sathyanarayanan.

In his address, Prof V S Rao emphasised on the transition from the School to the University system. The known world is going to change, many of the things students will be experiencing for the first time – be it hostel living or continual internal evaluation instead of annual exams. Prof Rao further explained the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in education and research. Following the recommendation of National Education Policy-2020, SRM University-AP highly stresses on interdisciplinary learning. Time management is another critical factor that is going to affect the students. With the aim to provide holistic education, the university also puts an emphasis on extra-curricular and co-curricular activities. Starting from various clubs and societies to the learning of international languages, SRM University-AP provides many opportunities to the students. One of the distinctive features of the university is that the students can design their future here. From the choice of courses to the choice of careers, SRM University-AP provides support at every level to the students.

In the concluding remarks, Prof D Narayana Rao delved into the importance of innovation and research. Every nation, who aspires to acquire global leadership, has to be very sound in science and technology. India is now one of the top 5 emerging economic power in the world. The responsibility lies on the shoulders of the next generation of students to take India to the top. With immense passion and willpower, it is possible to witness that achievement.

During the Orientation Programme, eminent personalities from different spheres will be inspiring and motivating students. Prof K N Satyanarayana, Director-Indian Institute of Technology-Tirupati, Dr Jaya Prakash Narayan, Former Secretary to Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, Mr VV Lakshmi Narayana, former JD-CBI, Dr Hanuman Chowdary, Director of Centre for Telecom Management and Studies and Chairman of Pragna Bharati, Padma Bhushan Dr K Varaprasad Reddy, Ms Koka Vijayalakshmi, Prof B S Murty, Director-IIT Hyderabad, will be addressing the students in the fortnight-long programme.

Beyond the motivational lectures, SRM University-AP has organised sessions on Yoga and Meditations in collaboration with Heartfulness Institute to provide holistic development to the students.

SRM University-AP observes Research Day to promote research among students
Education, News

SRM University-AP observes Research Day to promote research among students

Aug 21, 2021 by Rekha Nair 0 Comments #Anurag University-Hyderabad, #Chancellor, #Pro-Vice-Chancellor, #Prof D Narayana Rao, #Prof U B Desai, #Prof. V. S. Rao, #SRM University-AP

The third edition of Research Day was held at SRM University-AP on August 21, 2021, to provide an excellent opportunity for all the faculty members, research scholars and students to exchange and exhibit their ideas on research. Prof U B Desai, Chancellor, Anurag University-Hyderabad was the Chief Guest of the event.

In his speech, Prof UB Desai admitted that creating a research ecosystem in education has truly become important. During the last decade, the realization happened, and it has been reflected in the National Education Policy, yet there is a long way to go. He further congratulated SRM University-AP for dedicating a day for research to motivate students towards the research pursuits. In his keynote address, “India’s Ascent to 5G”, he discussed some pertinent queries and showed the way forward. In every 10 years, there is an evolution in Communications. He made the audience aware of the 10 key technological trends- Artificial Intelligence, Autonomous Networks, Cyber Security, Distributed Ledgers, Dynamic Data, Extended Reality, Internet of Things, Quantum Computing, Autonomous Systems along with 3 software trends- Softwarization, Cloudification, Virtualisation which will shape the digital future. He further explained how Network evolution beyond the currently planned 5G is taking place. Research on 6G has already started, and in the future, it is poised to dominate 5G. Prof Desai pointed out that India can make much improvement in Edge Computing and Metadata as these domains do not require huge resources. He further delved into the Evolved Network architecture and Indian Scenario and thrusts. He expressed that Research on 5G, Internet of Things and Cyber Security is critical to the National Interests. The nation thus is enhancing current Research and Developmental capabilities- domestic manufacturing and export-oriented. With interesting facts and charts, he laid down the mobile communication roadmap in India. In our country, mobile broadband is the premium source of the internet, with 80% of the internet traffic generated by it. An Indian consumes 11 Gb data per month per smartphone on average which is the highest in the world. It need not be overemphasized that there is huge scope and opportunities in 5G research and beyond. Similarly, the Internet of Things is going to be another big wave. The next-generation devices and appliances will be hugely IoT-based with less hassle in operation. Smart Cities-Sensors, Precision Agriculture, Digital Health, Industry 4.0, Automative are some of the sectors where it has substantial scope for application. Indian operators are also to launch nationwide NB-IoT services in the coming days.

In his welcome speech, Prof D. Narayana Rao, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, SRM University-AP, said that the universities and educational institutes need to trigger the thought process and inquisitiveness among the students beyond the classroom. Universities should give top priorities for research that creates a positive impact or change in society. The country’s universities and educational institutions need to be encouraged to perform transactional research that leads to the development of products needed for societal development. Universities and educational institutes should also look for collaborative research with the industry. Universities are the creators of knowledge and innovative ideas, providers of skilled manpower, agents of societal changes and symbols of international attention and prestige. Therefore rather than counting the number of publications, more focus is to be given to translational research. Universities and educational institutes need to synergize so that both of them can be benefitted from the collaborative research outcomes. Falling behind innovation would mean falling behind in becoming a world leader. Therefore, for a country like India, aspiring to attain global economic leadership needs to be strongly encouraged and supported in research. Sri Narendra Modi, our Hon’ble Prime Minister, firmly believes that our future will be secure and global leadership will sustain only when we produce the next generation of world-class scientists, technologists, researchers and innovators. As India emerges as a global power, we need to move forward from being a knowledge consumer to a knowledge producer. It is the responsibility of universities and educational institutes to create knowledge.

SRM University-AP provides abundant opportunities to faculty and students to carry out frontline research. National Education Policy-2020’s sharp focus is on research and multidisciplinary approach. National Research Foundation has been set up as per the recommendation of National Education Policy-2020 to significantly enhance the research contributions. Research is the way forward to be a world superpower. We must inculcate the desire to perform quality research in students even from their undergraduate days.

In his speech, Prof V S Rao asserted how the nascent university has created its reputation in the education world of India. In fact, SRM University-AP has achieved several marvels in the last 30 months, including many research publications, projects, and several patents. Since its inception in 2017, the university has published over 500+ papers, 22 patents, and 36 funded projects with an outlay of about Rs. 20 crores. He further emphasized that, unlike several other universities, SRM University-AP has research embedded in the curriculum. SRM University-AP does not believe in keeping research outside the curriculum. The capstone projects, research-based learning, undergraduate research project, research internships with international universities or industry-SRM University-AP offer a plethora of opportunities to the students to bring out the inner researcher among them. SRM University-AP firmly believes that a research eco-system should be inculcated among the students. The students must learn how to think and question and how to find the answers. Agreeing with Prof D. Narayana Rao, Prof VS Rao also mentioned that the National Education Policy-2020 puts a great emphasis on research since the importance of research need not be debated today. SRM University-AP thus introduced Research Day to impart curiosity towards transcendental knowledge among the students.

Book of Abstracts was launched by Prof V S Rao in the gracious presence of Prof UB Desai, Prof T Ragunathan, Associate Dean-Engineering, Prof Bandi Kamaiah, Dr B Siva Kumar, Deputy Dean and other dignitaries. 217 research abstracts were selected for presentation after review and scrutiny. 22 students out of them have received Gold medals for the research, and 9 students secured silver medals. All medal winners were felicitated in the event.

SRM University-AP launches MBA in Data Science with specialization in Business Analytics.
Education, News

SRM University-AP launches MBA in Data Science with specialization in Business Analytics.

Mar 15, 2021 by Rekha Nair 0 Comments #and Prof AVS Kamesh, #Co-Founder and COO, #Data Science, #Digital Learning Design Expert & Professional Performance Coach, #Digital Transformation Evangelist, #Dr. Randhir Mishra, #Head- Department of Management, #Jigsaw Academy, #Mr Gaurav Baidyasen, #Ms Sarita Digumarti, #Pro-Vice-Chancellor, #Prof D Narayana Rao, #Prof. V. S. Rao, #SRM Group, #SRM University-AP, #Vice- President and Head, #Vice-Chancellor

Apprehending the need of the hour, SRM University-AP unveiled an MBA in Data Science with a specialization in Business Analytics, a 2-year full-time classroom programme that provides a unique offering for business professionals by blending Business Management with Analytical Skills.The glorious presence of the maestros from the industry and academia Ms Sarita Digumarti, Co-Founder and COO, Jigsaw Academy, Dr Randhir Mishra, Digital Learning Design Expert & Professional Performance Coach, Digital Transformation Evangelist, Mr Gaurav Baidyasen, Vice- President and Head, Data Science, SRM Group, Prof V S Rao, Vice-Chancellor, SRM University-AP, Prof D Narayana Rao, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, and Prof AVS Kamesh, Head- Department of Management graced the inauguration ceremony. Leveraging on their vast experience spanning across decades, the experts shared insights pertaining to the industry, market, and businesses to assist the audience in comprehending the significance of Data Analysis in modern business operations, strategy building, and designing impactful marketing initiatives.

The intensive course involves innovative learning techniques, including case-based learning, experiential learning, supplementary learning, industry learning, and one-on-one mentorship-based learning. This programme intends to give a holistic understanding of the domain, along with enhancing cross-functional management skills amongst learners.”The business professionals will need to be ‘Digitally Enlightened’ to exploit the unprecedented career opportunities opening up in the future. Aligned with the core philosophy of SRM University AP – ‘Graduating Future relevant professionals’, I am convinced that the MBA Data Science program would emerge as a preferred choice by the aspirants who are committed to being digitally proficient future-ready business professionals,” opined Dr Randhir.

For efficient decision making, industries are employing the emerging discipline of Data Analytics. Unleashing the power of Data Science, Predictive Modeling, and Business Analytics, businesses thrive in the modern world by achieving an edge over their peers. A Data Analyst’s prominent role is to uncover the patterns from data and develop various statistical models to predict future trends. “We are in the age of information where the applications of high-tech tools, business analytics and machine learning are considered to be the significant assets. Organisations are developing a data-driven culture and looking for skilled professionals,” asserted Mr Gaurav.

The MBA programme is designed by industry experts, aligned to industrial needs, and is delivered by the best of industry practitioners as well as faculty from IITs and top-notch institutions across the globe. The internship embedded in the programme will enable the students to gain valuable work experience, develop a network, and assess specific techniques learned in the classroom.”The MBA in Data Science program launched by SRM University is an excellent and timely program that will help bridge the data science and analytics skill gap in India. The programme is a blend of core business knowledge along with data skills, and the combination will help graduates be ready for a wide variety of strategic business roles,” concluded Ms Sarita.

Business World, News

SRM University-AP observed 72nd Republic Day

Jan 27, 2021 by Rekha Nair 0 Comments #Pro-Vice-Chancellor, #Prof D Narayana Rao, #SRM University-AP

Republic Day is observed in SRM University-AP to commemorate the day on which the Constitution of India came into effect, in the year 1950, and the country became a republic. Like every year, this year too the faculty, staff and students of SRM University-AP gathered around to honour the day. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the university celebrated Republic Day by following the safety rules and regulations. The Celebration started with a Rangoli Competition, in which our neighbours from the surrounding villages joined us. This was followed by flag hoisting ceremony and march past of the staffs. Prof D Narayana Rao, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, did the honour of hoisting the National Flag. Mr Ernest Samuel Ratnakumar, registrar; Ms Revathi B, Assistant Director-Student Affairs, Mr Abdul Mohimin, Assistant Director-Sports were among the dignitaries.

In his address, Prof Narayana Rao briefly explained India’s progress since independence in the fields of Education, Industry, Healthcare, Agriculture, Information Technology and others. At the time of independence, India was a poor country with 12% literacy rate and 35-40 years of average life expectancy. In the past 70 years, India has emerged as one of the world’s leading knowledge superpowers. Many other countries also earned independence at the same time as India’s. But only India has been able to utilise its human resources and wisdom to achieve greatness.  In the following years after independence, India did not even have enough food grains to feed a country of 30 crores people. Food grains had to be imported from other countries like Myanmar. However, today, India not only is solvent enough to feed its 130-crore people but also exports food grains to other needy and poor countries. Be it agriculture, education or healthcare, India’s progress so far has been remarkable. The reputed institutes such as IITs, IISERs, NITs, IISc, ISIs, AIMs are performing beyond expectations educating the people of this country. Leading research organisations and regulatory bodies such as CSIR, ISRO, DRDO, DST, DBT are rigorously working to make this country do big and achieve big. “These organisations came into being with great vision, and we feel very proud to say that they are on par with any other organisations of the leading developed countries. COVID-19 pandemic brought an unprecedented crisis all over the world. But Indian biotech companies were able to make the COVID vaccines within a very short span of time.

It is a moment of pride for every Indian that India has become the world’s vaccine factory. No other country has the capability to produce vaccines in such a large number”, asserted Prof Rao. He further added that India had progressed very much in establishing communication even in the remote villages with the help of satellites. India’s advancement in designing, developing, and launching satellites is exceptional. Data connectivity and the Internet are the basic needs of today’s world, and India is the country that provides such connectivity at the lowest price in the world. Over the years after independence, India has learnt to use its human resource effectively.

In today’s world, India produces the most numbers of skilled professionals to meet the need of this era. Indians are scaling greater heights in every sphere. Satya Nadela, Sundar Pichai are a few examples of how Indians are taking over the world with their brilliance and intellect. This country has been politically independent for a while, and it is now high time to be technologically independent. “We are progressing very fast, and we have the power and potential to emerge as one of the major economic powers in the coming days. With a capability to turn every crisis into an opportunity, we move forward towards an ‘Atma-Nirbhar Bharat’ following our Prime Minister’s advice of Innovate, Patent, Produce and Prosper,” said Prof Narayana Rao.

Adhering to the spirits of patriotism, Mr Raviteja Reddy, Mr A Chaitanya, Mr P M Aditya, Mr K Praveen, K Yeshashwini, A Sravya, K Vasu, G Priyanka, students of mechanical engineering, demonstrated their eco-friendly bike which was made recently by converting IC Engine bike to electric bike, under the mentorship of Dr Venkata Nori and Dr P Jayaprakash Sharma. Their successful venture was highly praised by the dignitaries present in the event.

The event concluded with the Prize Distribution Ceremony. The Winners and Participants of Rangoli Competition and Fancy-Dress Competition for Kids were congratulated by Prof D Narayana Rao, Mr Ernest Samuel Ratnakumar and Smt Priya. Prof Rao felicitated Dr Sutharsan Govindrajan, Department of Biology; Dr Mannathan, Dr Mahesh Kumar Ravva, Dr Nimai Mishra, Department of Chemistry; Dr Jatis Dash, Dr Siddhartha Ghosh, Department of Physics for their research contribution in Nature Index Ranking-2020.

Business World

Covid-19 blues pitches SRM into more research initiatives including Siddha – SRMIST

Aug 9, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #‘Kabasura Kudineer’, #‘Siddha’, #Dr Lt Col A. Ravikumar, #Dr. Satyajit Mahopatra and Dr Melvin George., #Medical and Health Sciences, #National Institute of Siddha (NIS), #Pro-Vice-Chancellor

KATTANKULATHUR, AUG 9:

Even after six months into a global pandemic, the continuing uncertainty over the progression of Covid-19, novel coronavirus, has infused a greater degree of social purpose in SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre at Kattankulathur near here to try and contribute to taming the virus by undertaking research across medicinal systems including ‘Siddha’, said Dr Lt Col A. Ravikumar, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Medical and Health Sciences

In the popular message-space, ‘Kabasura Kudineer’, the herbal concoction as part of the indigenous ‘Siddha’ formulations to tackle coronavirus, may be seen as a harmless immune booster in susceptible populations. But that stage is already being surpassed, thanks to the Central and State governments also opening up the inclusion of Indian systems of medicine and medical research institutions like SRM taking up the challenge.

Going beyond a facile recommendation that ‘Siddha’ formulations including ‘Kabasura Kudineer’ is an ‘add-on therapy’ in treating Covid-19 patients, “We are now testing its efficacy in a proper scientific study to see whether it really works,” says Dr Melvin George, Associate Professor, Clinical Pharmacology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre.

The study, in collaboration with the National Institute of Siddha (NIS), aims to document, on the basis of scientific evidence, how the ‘Siddha’ formulations add to the effectiveness of the mainline allopathic hospital treatment to cure Covid-19 and also how they can prevent the virus from spreading.

This important study is being aided by two groups of people- in all 150 and split into 75 persons in each group with their individual consent-, of which one group will get the regular medical treatment for Covid-19 plus the ‘Siddha’ formulations and the other group get only standard medical care, explains Dr. Satyajit Mahopatra and Dr Melvin George.

The outcomes from these two groups will be compared in testing claims whether ‘Siddha’ formulations really help prevent Covid-19 cases going from ‘mild’ to ‘severe’, the lesser number of days taken for a cure and the like. “Nearly 40 per cent of this study has been completed and at the end of it we will publish the findings along with the NIS”, he said.

Another area of research SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre is in thick of, is testing the efficacy of recombinant BCG vaccine in preventing Covid-19 infections among people who are in the high-risk zone, particularly among the hospital staff who are treating Covid-19 patients. This is in partnership with the Serum Institute, Pune.

The third study involves finding out whether ‘Hydroxychloroquine’ as a prophylactic can prevent the onset of Covid-19 coronavirus infection in people who are working in hospitals. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has given guidelines for this two months back and SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre is one of the 25 hospitals across India chosen for this study also, points out Dr Melvin George.

Ultimately, with so many people suffering due to Covid-19, the purpose of “widening our research horizons, given our very good infrastructure, by collaborating with various organisations is to join different initiatives and with our contributions cumulatively make an impact” in fighting the pandemic, says Dr Melvin George.

“It is a large team who are working and if by collaborative research we can contribute to understanding Covid-19, for its treatment and prevention and if it can stop the pandemic and save people’s lives, it will be a big thing,” added Dr Melvin George, on the overall significance of these projects.