Regional competency development centre to be set up at tech university

Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology (DCRUST), Murthal, has taken a step towards to bridge the gap between academia and industry. The university is going to set up a regional competency development centre (RCDC) on its campus in collaboration with VE Commercial Vehicles Ltd (VECV), a joint venture between Volvo Group and Eicher Motors Limited.

Prof Prakash Singh, Vice Chancellor (VC), DCRUST, said, “To enhance industry-academia, the VECV will provide practical experience to faculty and students in cutting-edge automobile technology through the RCDC. It is designed to train students, technicians and faculty members in areas including implementation of BS-VI, telematics, EV technology and advanced diagnostics.”

He said, “The lab will have state-of-the-art equipment, including engines, advanced electrical boards, dynamic cut-section models and practice units for various commercial vehicle components. Additionally, training demo vehicles will be provided to ensure practical and industry-relevant demonstrations.”

Prof Singh said, “Through the 10-year memorandum of understanding (MoU), DCRUST students will get access to real-world applications of modern automotive practices. The programme also includes a —Train the Trainer — initiative, which enables faculty members to stay updated with the latest advancements in automotive engineering.”

“It aims to not only enhance technical skills of students and faculty, but also strengthen collaboration between DCRUST and the automotive industry and prepare engineers for the industry who have the latest knowledge and know-how,” the VC said,

“The VECV will not only enhance the skill set of its dealer technicians, but also promote a strong partnership between industry and academia,” he said.

“The RCDC training modules will be integrated into mechanical and electronics engineering programmes under the skill-based curriculum. There will be an opportunity to incorporate automobile technology modules in the existing mechanical and electronics engineering programmes into an integrated curriculum,” he said.

The VC claimed that DCRUST was providing modern infrastructure, including workshops, classrooms and hostels, ensuring a conducive environment for learning.

He said, “The VECV have agreed on a non-monetary model, wherein it provides equipment and training, while the university ensures infrastructure and operational support. The VECV will deploy a full-time expert for continuous training and guidance under an on-campus trainer. It will ensure that the laboratory stays updated with emerging technologies.”

“Multimedia training materials and technical publications will be used to provide better education and training on trends such as autonomous systems and green technologies,” the VC added.