The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), has taken a significant step in bridging the knowledge gap between academia and industry by introducing a set of guidelines designed to facilitate industry-academia mobility. These guidelines, which were unveiled by AICTE Chairman Prof. TG Sitharam, are not just a policy change, but a testament to the importance of the academic community in shaping the future of technical education. They are intended to strengthen ties between academic institutions and industry, hence improving the overall academic experience.
The new guidelines include introducing Professors of Practice (PoP), Associate and Assistant PoPs, and increased mobility of women PoPs under the BHARATI (Boosting Higher Education through Assimilation of Resilient and Talented Indian Women) initiative. These measures aim to facilitate knowledge exchange and bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
While launching the guidelines, Prof. TG Sitharam stated:
This comprehensive framework underscores our commitment to excellence in higher education and fostering solid and sustainable linkages between academia and industry. The role of the Professor of Practice bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enriching the academic environment with real-world insights. The significant step of encouraging the appointment of Women Professors of Practice under the BHARATI initiative is a testament to our commitment to gender equality in higher education and the professional sphere. These guidelines promote gender diversity, inclusivity, and seamless industry-academia collaboration, ensuring meritocracy remains central.
Prof. Sitharam also announced that AICTE will soon introduce initiatives to fund Professors of Practice. He highlighted that AICTE will remunerate 100 women PoP under the BHARATI (Boosting Higher Education through Assimilation of Resilient and Talented Indian Women) initiative. Furthermore, he emphasized that this scheme will enable distinguished professionals and industry experts, particularly those who have experienced a career break, to make a successful comeback.
AICTE Vice Chairman Dr Abhay Jere added:
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 a broader range of experienced professionals can contribute to our academic environment.
Dr. Jere also praised the committee, led by Prof. G.D. Yadav and the Policy and Academic Planning Bureau of AICTE, for their dedicated efforts in preparing the comprehensive guidelines. The framework balances the inclusion of industry expertise with the academic rigour required for educational institutions.
The statement highlighted that appointing Professors of Practice is crucial for bridging the gap between theory and practice in higher education. These professionals help align academic curricula with industry needs, giving students a deeper understanding of how theoretical concepts are applied in real-world scenarios. Their practical experience not only enhances student employability but also instils confidence in students by exposing them to industry practices, trends, and challenges. Moreover, Professors of Practice bring valuable industry connections, offering students internship opportunities, mentorship, and job placements, thus preparing them for a successful career in the industry.
Professionals’ ability to move between academics and industry is crucial to developing a vibrant and supportive learning environment. Academics applying their research to real-world challenges and industry professionals providing academics with practical insights help to enhance knowledge transfer.
This initiative by AICTE marks a significant step towards creating a more integrated and practical educational framework, ensuring that students are better prepared to meet the demands of the industry.
