Guwahati: Cotton University, recently accredited with an A grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), is setting its sights on aligning with new industry demands and rising to the level of nationally recognized institutions.
Business North East (BNE) conducted an exclusive interview with Vice-Chancellor Ramesh Chandra Deka, discussing how the university fosters innovation, skill development, and entrepreneurship while promoting community outreach.
Ramesh Chandra Deka, Vice-Chancellor, Cotton University (Google image)
Excerpts from the interview:
BNE: How is Cotton University fostering skill development, entrepreneurship, and gainful employment for its students?
Vice-Chancellor (VC): Cotton University has implemented the NEP 2020 framework, introducing skill-based components across disciplines. We have collaborated with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) for curriculum design. Additionally, we partnered with NECTAR to establish solar-powered equipment, including a solar dryer, a solar solvent extractor, and solar air coolers. These initiatives allow students to gain hands-on experience, particularly in utilizing Assam's biodiversity and medicinal plants for innovative purposes.
BNE: Where do you see Cotton University in the next five years?
VC: Cotton University is already a renowned institution, and our faculty's research has gained recognition. Two papers published in the journal Science originated here—a rare achievement for the region. Despite limited resources, we’re making progress, supported by the Government of Assam's recent funding for infrastructure projects like boundary walls and modernized hostels. Our aim is to match institutions like IITs in research infrastructure. For example, our newly established Central Instrumentation Facility (CIF) has received ₹4 crores from DBT and ₹20 crores under PM-USHA for modernization. Our labs, sports facilities, and campus infrastructure are being upgraded to elevate the university’s stature.
BNE: Can you share details of Cotton University's collaborations?
VC: We’ve signed approximately 50 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various organizations, universities, and institutes. For instance, we’re exploring partnerships with Assam's oil industries and banks to provide students with better job opportunities.
BNE: How does Cotton University address unemployment and related challenges?
VC: We conduct awareness programs under the SITA initiative, inviting scholars and civil servants to guide students on clearing competitive exams and securing placements. Our capacity-building center organizes these events, which have enhanced employability prospects.
BNE: How is Cotton University contributing to community and regional development?
VC: Cotton University has adopted five villages and some schools, where our faculty members conduct outreach programs, distribute study materials, and deliver motivational talks. We’ve also organized workshops for rural entrepreneurs, such as a pearl farming training program in our Department of Zoology. This initiative aims to utilize Assam's untapped ponds, generating livelihoods through systematic pearl cultivation.
BNE: Are new courses being introduced to meet industry demands?
VC: While space constraints prevent us from launching new courses immediately, we are focusing on modernizing existing departments to align with industry requirements.
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BNE: How is Cotton University supporting entrepreneurial development?
VC: We invite entrepreneurs to inspire our students, while our faculty seeks industry exposure. Collaborations with NECTAR and other organizations have been instrumental in this regard. Additionally, we’ve submitted a major project to the Department of Science and Technology on boron therapy for cancer, involving B. Barooah Cancer Institute, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, and IUAC Delhi. This initiative could create placement opportunities, foster entrepreneurship, and contribute to societal welfare.
BNE: How does Cotton University support innovation and technology demands?
VC: Through the PM-USHA-funded Center for Skill Development, innovation is integral to our research goals. The center ensures that faculty research outcomes translate into industry applications, fostering both innovation and entrepreneurship.
Cotton University’s initiatives reflect its commitment to bridging education, industry, and community development, ensuring its students are well-prepared for emerging opportunities.
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