| |9 APRIL 2025HIGHERReviewTechnology Integration in ResearchIntegration of Artificial intelligence, machine learning, big-data analytics, and internet technologies have enhanced the methods employed by universities in more accurate ways to solve such highly complex issues. The adoption of such technologies by Indian universities ensures outcomes that are more focused, and effective. For example, AI and machine learning can switch to medical research as they lead doctors to diagnose and provide a specific treatment plan faster. IoT ranges from environmental monitoring to urban development, providing researchers with real-time data. Such integration will increase the quality and relevant of research in Indian universities. Digital platforms are being used more frequently than before to collaborate among research communities. When Indian universities embrace these tools in their research processes, they are well-equipped to strengthen their collaborative networks and play a major role in solving the world's global challenges. Such investments and adoption of innovative technological approaches make Indian universities competitive globally in research and innovation.Navakanta Bhat, Dean, Division of Interdisciplinary Sciences, IISc Bangalore said, "Over the last several years, IISc has established leadership in the areas of Semiconductor technology, Nanomaterials and Biological Sciences and will soon establish a Postgraduate Medical School to foster and amplify interdisciplinary collaborations between Engineering, Basic Sciences and Medicine. This MoU offers a unique opportunity to leverage the mutual strengths of the two universities to create a big impact on these critical technologies".Strengthening Research InfrastructureThe infrastructure for research and innovation includes the modernization of laboratories, the facility for high-performance computing, the development of advanced data storage systems, and better access to global research networks. A well-equipped research infrastructure empowers students and faculty to carry out world-class research and use effective tools for innovation. Advanced research facilities can provide an environment for researchers to explore new ideas, experiment with advanced technologies, and collaborate with international peers. Research infrastructure that deals with high-performance computing facilities and cloud infrastructure plays a major role in data processing and analysis of very large data sets. Such large data patterns are highly seen in other research areas like genomics, climate science, and urban planning. Investing in research infrastructure makes universities more capable of carrying out their research and also attracts top researchers and scholars to share their thoughts around the world. Financial support from the government combined with investments from the private sector enhances the research infrastructures at the Indian universities to undertake globally recognized research and innovation. Universities can take an opportunity from these international collaborations and grants to get access to sophisticated technologies and research resources.VijayRaghavan, Former Principal Scientific Adviser, Government of India said, "Can we have a situation across science and technology where there are major international centres, where all countries come together in an open and collaborative manner to address the major challenges". Research-Based Curriculum in EducationA research-based curriculum is crucial to establish a culture of innovation in Indian universities. The conventional curriculum provides significant emphasis on theoretical knowledge and does not equip the student for the pressures of conducting research and development work. A research-driven curriculum enhances problem-solving, critical thinking, and practical experience in research. Allowing research at every level of education in the country improves students' knowledge of all subjects and provides them with ways of discovering new knowledge. Programs with projects and laboratory work along with internships expose the student to practical experience within the same field, which helps students to understand current developments in the field. Additionally, curriculums that are based on research get the students into interdisciplinary projects with a global viewpoint and enable them to be innovative problem solvers and leaders. In this way, it brings the university in coordination with the industry needs as students would acquire experiences and skills highly connected with industry.Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, The Department of Science and Technology said, "PAIR has been initiated to boost the research capability of those universities where research is at a nascent stage but which have the potential to perform well, in a mentorship mode by pairing them with well-established top-tier institutions in a hub and spoke framework and providing substantial funding".
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