Cover Story

FutureTech Programs & Academic Leaders Special - 2025

As technology reshapes industries at an unprecedented pace, the role of higher education in preparing the next generation of innovators has never been more critical. FutureTech programs - ranging from artificial intelligence and robotics to nanotechnology, biotechnology, and cybersecurity - are emerging as the cornerstone of forward-looking curricula in India and beyond. These programs are designed not only to equip students with cutting-edge technical skills but also to nurture creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities that can drive real-world impact.

Behind every successful program are visionary academic leaders who are shaping the future of learning. Deans, program heads, and educators are steering their institutions toward innovation-led pedagogy, industry collaboration, and global research initiatives. Their insights determine how effectively students are prepared for rapidly evolving technological landscapes and high-demand careers.

This issue celebrates the synergy between FutureTech programs and the leaders who champion them, highlighting how academia is responding to the challenges of digital transformation, skill shortages, and global competitiveness. From integrating interdisciplinary approaches to fostering entrepreneurship, academic leaders are redefining what it means to educate in the 21st century.

Through in-depth features, interviews, and case studies, this special edition explores the strategies, vision, and impact of these trailblazers - shedding light on how FutureTech programs and their champions are not just shaping careers, but influencing the broader ecosystem of innovation, research, and industrial advancement.

This issue of Higher Education Review talks about some of the professionally managed colleges in the country, which has been nurtured with best technical and professional infrastructure and assistance from efficient and skilled faculties ensuring delivery of quality higher education and research. This issue spotlights ‘FutureTech Programs & Academic Leaders Special - 2025’, the list has been crafted by a team of Industry veterans, CEOs, VCs and the Higher Education Review editorial team.

FutureTech Programs & Academic Leaders Special - 2025

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College

Management

Description

Amity University

Noida

Dr. Ashok K Chauhan, President Offers specialized programs in AI and Robotics, focusing on cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and automation
Indian Institute of Science

Bangalore

Prof. Govindan Rangarajan, Director Provides advanced nanotechnology programs that integrate research and applications across fields such as materials science, electronics, biomedical engineering, and energy
Indian Institute of Technology Madras

Chennai

Prof. Kamakoti Veezhinathan, Director Offers nanotechnology programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including a dual-degree program focused on both core and elective courses, and more
Lovely Professional University

Phagwara

Dr Rashmi Mittal, Pro-Chancellor Provides specialized B.Tech programs in AI and Robotics designed to provide a comprehensive educational environment that enables students to gain expertise in nextgeneration intelligent systems and automation
National Forensic Sciences University

Gandhinagar

Dr J M Vyas, Vice-Chancellor Offers an integrated B.Sc.-M.Sc. Forensic Science program that combines basic science with practical forensic topics like crime scene investigation, evidence handling, toxicology, and ballistics
PSG Institute of Advanced Studies

Coimbatore

Dr J Kanchana, Director - Global Engagement Offers undergraduate programs in emerging applications of nanotechnology across diverse fields, including mechanical engineering, mechatronics, robotics and automation, and more
Srimathi Devkunvar Nanalal Bhatt Vaishnav College For Women (SDNBVC)

Chennai

Dr M.S. Vijaya, Director Offers AI and Robotics courses through a curriculum designed to provide high academic standards in AI, machine learning, data science, and robotics
Swami Vivekananda Yogaanusandhana Samsthana (S-Vyasa) Deemed-To-Be University

Bangalore

Dr H R Nagendra, Founder The university offers a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) program, as well as an MCA program, both with specializations in Cybersecurity, Ethical Hacking, and Cyber Forensics
University of Mumbai

Mumbai

Prof Ravindra D Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor Provides undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Forensic Science, which cover a wide range of topics including digital forensics, crime scene investigation, and more
Vellore Institute of Technology

Vellore

Dr G Viswanathan, Chancellor Provides nanotechnology programs with a focus on creating graduates skilled for research and industrial applications in nanoelectronics, nanophotonics, and flexible devices