India’s first digital varsity to create tech leaders

India’s first digital varsity to create tech leaders

The admission process for the first cohort of PhD and postgraduate programmes will begin in March and April 2021, respectively

c-Sheetal.Banchariya@timesgroup.com

01.03.2021 

In a first, India has become home to a digital university. The Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology (KUDSIT) is established by upgrading the Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management Kerala (IIITMK), which was set up in 2000. It will focus on four key themes required for digital world leadership – Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Sustainability and Entrepreneurship.

It is important to note that the digital university is not a virtual university, says Saji Gopinath, vice-chancellor of KUDSIT. “It has an offline campus, and most programmes will be offered through blended mode. But the focus is on creating talent and knowledge for advancements in the digital era.”

“While many premier institutions use technology for expanding their reach, there is a need to supplement these efforts by doing in-depth studies on the development of effective learning models, assess the impact of digital technology and learning in various aspects of society, which form the mandate of the digital university,” he adds.

The university’s research and development activities will focus on new technologies to drive the digital revolution, training and curating talent to effectively apply the digital means in various sectors of the economy such as agriculture, health care, industry, entertainment and education, says Gopinath.

What’s on offer

The university will initially focus on five disciplines – Computer Science and Engineering, Electronics Systems and Automation, Informatics, Digital Sciences, Digital Humanities & Liberal Arts. Two types of courses will be offered by the digital university – long-duration postgraduate programmes and short-term skilling programmes.

“The varsity will host two batches every year, starting in July and January. The admissions will be conducted through a nationallevel exam. The candidates with GATE or GRE scores will also be considered,” says Gopinath.