AICTE unveils guidelines to enhance industry-academia mobility, facilitate knowledge exchange

NEW DELHI: The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)Chairman TG Sitharam has introduced guidelines focused on improving Industry-Academia Mobility. These guidelines includes the appointment of Professors of Practice (PoP), along with Associate and Assistant PoPs, enhancing the mobility of women PoPs through the BHARATI initiative (Boosting Higher Education through Assimilation of Resilient and Talented Indian Women), and promoting knowledge exchange initiatives.

While unveiling the guidelines, AICTE Chairman highlighted, "This comprehensive framework underscores our commitment to excellence in higher education and fostering strong, sustainable linkages between academia and industry. The role of Professor of Practice bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enriching the academic environment with real-world insights. Encouraging the appointment of Women Professors of Practice is a significant step towards gender equality in higher education and the professional sphere. These guidelines promote gender diversity, inclusivity, and seamless industry-academia collaboration, ensuring meritocracy remains central.”

AICTE initiatives to fund Professors of Practice

TG Sitharam revealed that AICTE plans to launch funding programs for Professors of Practice. He mentioned that AICTE will finance 100 women PoPs as part of the BHARATI initiative. Additionally, he underscored that this initiative aims to empower accomplished professionals and industry experts, particularly those who have experienced a career break, to make a successful comeback.

AICTE vice chairman, Abhay Jere commented, "Recognizing that acquiring 15 years of experience for the role of Professor of Practice can be challenging, we have introduced guidelines to appoint Associate Professors of Practice and Assistant Professors of Practice. These additional roles will ensure that a broader range of experienced professionals can contribute to our academic environment”.

He commended the committee, chaired by GD Yadav and policy and academic planning bureau of AICTE, for their dedicated efforts in preparing the comprehensive guidelines and shaping a framework that balances the inclusion of industry expertise with the academic rigor required for our institutions. He said, that “This initiative will undoubtedly enhance the quality of education and industry-academia collaboration, benefitting both students and the professional community."

Bridging gap between theory and practice in higher education

According to the official statement, the integration of Professors of Practice plays a crucial role in linking academic theory with practical applications within higher education. These experts ensure that academic curricula are closely aligned with industry requirements, offering students a comprehensive grasp of how theoretical knowledge translates into real-world contexts. By imparting their practical expertise, they significantly bolster student employability, providing insights into contemporary industry practices, trends, and complexities.

"Moreover, Professors of Practice bring valuable industry connections, offering students internship opportunities, mentorship, and job placements, " the press read.