IR AADIGYAN new

The Directorate of International Relations and Higher Studies (IR&HS) at SRM University-AP has organised Aadigyan Winter Youth Programme. The event is the varsity’s flagship initiative and is conducted to introduce International students and to familiarise them with the Indian culture, its history and lifestyle. This year the varsity hosted students and faculty from Alpine High School, Nepal. The event, which spanned over three days, saw students engage in the world of knowledge and innovation.

The induction featured Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora, Deans, Assistant and Associate Deans of the three schools, and Directors and other luminaries. The event highlights included insightful sessions on engineering, liberal arts, and a unique experimental workshop, “Walk with a Scientist”, that saw Prof. Jayaseelan Murugaiyan introduce the students to the vast diversity of flora and fauna on the campus.

The third day of the Aadigyan Youth Programme saw the students attend insightful sessions by luminaries such as Prof. A V S Kamesh, Professor Paari School; Mr Sidharth Shankar Tripathy, Director Entrepreneurship and Innovation; Ms Kriti Gopal Das, ISKCON and finally Ms Aditi Jain, Director-IR&HS.

In the era of scientific advancement, Prof. G S Vinod Kumar, HoD and his Research Scholar, Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale, from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at SRM University-AP, shine as a beacon of inspiration. The teacher-student duo were granted a patent for their research titled “Closed Cell Magnesium Alloy Foams Stabilized by Fly Ash Particles and A Method for Preparation for the Same.” This patent stands as a testament to their relentless pursuit and unwavering commitment to science.

Kudos to Prof. G S Vinod Kumar and Mr Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale for their exemplary dedication and foresight. Here’s an abstract of their patent-winning research.

Abstract:

A magnesium metal foam product enhanced with fly ash particles demonstrates versatility across multiple applications, including space, automotive, civil engineering, and marine uses. The stability of this magnesium alloy foam is attributed to the incorporation of fly ash particles, particularly alumina silicate (Al2SiO5) cenospheres. These cenospheres, hollow spheres derived from fly ash, serve as effective stabilisers for the magnesium alloy foam. The preparation involves reinforcing magnesium foamable precursors with fly ash particles, facilitating optimal foaming. The presence of fly ash particles ensures the stability of the liquid foam until solidification, resulting in a foam with a superior pore structure. With a contact angle ranging between 70° to 90°, the particles exhibit prolonged interaction with the liquid metal without agglomeration, dissolution, or reaction. This characteristic contributes to the attainment of desirable qualities essential for diverse applications.

Practical Application:

1. Aerospace: Magnesium foams can be used in lightweight structural components, thermal insulation, and vibration-damping systems in aerospace applications.

2. Automotive: In the automotive industry, magnesium foams find applications in lightweight body panels, crash absorbers, and acoustic insulation.

3. Biomedical: Due to their biocompatibility, magnesium foams are utilised in medical implants, such as bone fixation plates, and as scaffolds for tissue engineering.

4. Energy: These foams can be employed in thermal management systems, heat exchangers, and as structural components in renewable energy systems.

5. Sports and Leisure: Magnesium foams can be used in sports equipment such as helmets, pads, and protective gear due to their lightweight and impact-absorbing properties.

Patent Grant Number: 50830

 

Design, Build & Thrive with a BTech in Civil Engineering

The field of civil engineering is experiencing a surge in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there’s an anticipated 5% growth in civil engineering employment from 2022 to 2032, surpassing the average for all occupations. On average, approximately 21,200 job opportunities for civil engineers are expected each year throughout the decade.

Civil engineering professionals are involved in designing and building various infrastructures, including buildings, bridges, water systems, and transportation systems. Additionally, they tackle environmental issues such as pollution and land use. So, if you wish to make your future in this field, you must go for the BTech in Civil Engineering degree.

At its core, BTech Civil Engineering is a comprehensive programme that delves into the principles, theories, and practical applications of civil engineering. Students are equipped with a profound understanding of structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, environmental engineering, and water resources engineering. Let’s have a look at the eligibility criteria and the duration of the BTech in Civil Engineering course.

B.Tech Civil Engineering Eligibility

The requirements for admission to a BTech programme in Civil Engineering can differ among institutions. However, common eligibility criteria typically encompass:

.Attaining a minimum of 50% marks in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry/Biology during the 10+2 academic level

.Achieving an overall qualifying score of at least 50% in the 10+2 examinations

.Having an educational background in a Science-related stream

Various popular entrance exams for admission to B.Tech in Civil Engineering comprise TANCET, JEE MAIN, JEE Advanced, BITSAT, and VITEEE.

B.Tech in Civil Engineering Duration

The duration of a BTech in Civil Engineering typically spans four years. During these four years, students undergo a structured curriculum that combines theoretical learning with practical applications, culminating in the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of civil engineering principles and practices. The program’s duration may vary slightly among institutions, but a four-year timeframe is the standard for most B.Tech in Civil Engineering programmes.

BTech in Civil Engineering Jobs

A Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Civil Engineering opens up a wide array of job opportunities in various sectors. Here are some potential career options after BTech in Civil Engineering:

  • Civil Engineer
  • Structural Engineer
  • Transportation Engineer
  • Environmental Engineer
  • Geotechnical Engineer
  • Construction Manager
  • Water Resources Engineer
  • Urban Planner
  • Project Manager
  • Consulting Engineer
  • Construction Estimator
  • Researcher or Educator

These are just a few examples, and the versatility of a B.Tech in Civil Engineering allows graduates to explore and specialise in different areas based on their interests and expertise. Additionally, as the field continues to evolve, new and exciting job opportunities may emerge, especially with the increasing focus on sustainable and innovative engineering solutions.

Constructing Dreams, Shaping Futures: BTech Civil Engineering Course at SRM University-AP

The School of Engineering and Sciences at SRM University-AP, offers a Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering. The university places a strong emphasis on educating the upcoming cohort of civil engineers, recognising its pivotal role in enhancing services to society. The university’s mission and activities revolve around three key pillars: Teaching, Research, and Service. Each facet of this mission is driven by the overarching goal of improving the student experience. The School has witnessed a surge in research activities, aiming to provide undergraduate students with enhanced opportunities to emerge as exceptional leaders in their chosen fields.

Objectives of BTech Civil Engineering Course at SRM University-AP

Establishing a proficient pool of future civil engineering professionals is essential at both the postgraduate and undergraduate levels, catering to diverse sectors like private industry, government agencies, educational institutions, and research and development offices

Equipping students with the skills needed to operate as independent civil engineering consultants capable of addressing real-world challenges through their acquired management, analytical, and research abilities.

Instilling interdisciplinary knowledge, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in a diverse educational environment.

Bringing It All Together

The BTech in Civil Engineering programme at SRM University-AP, is your gateway to a dynamic and rewarding career in a field that is witnessing substantial growth. With the anticipated surge in demand for civil engineers and the diverse career options available, pursuing this degree becomes a strategic investment in your future. Moreover, if you aspire to contribute to the design and construction of essential infrastructure, tackle environmental challenges, and become a leader in the field, now is the time to embark on your BTech in Civil Engineering journey at SRM University-AP. Explore the possibilities, and join us in building a world where innovation, sustainability, and excellence converge in the exciting realm of Civil Engineering at SRM University-AP. Your journey to becoming an exceptional leader in the field begins here.

The Department of Mathematics had organised an International Conference on Women in Pure and Applied Mathematics (WPAM). The five-day-long conference featured luminaries in the field of Mathematics and was funded by three prominent Indian government research bodies: SERB, NBHM, and CSIR.

The event saw Prof. Raman Parimala, a renowned Indian Mathematician, acclaimed for her contributions to the field of Algebra. The Conference was held with the purpose of providing an empathetic platform for women mathematicians to present their cutting-edge research work and to share their concerns about the gender gap in mathematical science.

Prof. Sanoli Gun (President of Asian Oceanian Women in Mathematics), Prof. Vijaylaxmi Trivedi (Chairperson, Indian Women in Mathematics), and Prof. Anisa Chorwadwala (Member, Indian Women in Mathematics) motivated the students and provided the students with valuable inputs on how to pursue their career further in Mathematics. The luminaries also discussed activities conducted by their organisations to encourage established women researchers, women PhD scholars and advanced undergraduate-level women students in Mathematics.

During the conference, activities such as poster presentations were held to facilitate mathematical interaction between students. The conference ended with the hope that there will be more opportunities to organise similar events.

In the grand spectacle of democracy, every ballot cast represents a pivotal moment in shaping the collective destiny of a nation. However, what happens when the destiny of 1.4 billion people lacks a solid foundation of values and ethics?

Dr Vineeth Thomas, Assistant Professor at the Department of Liberal Arts, in his research paper titled “Ethical Society: A Premise On Which Successful Democracy Rests”, delves into these complexities of democratic regression that threaten to shake the foundations of our political system.

ABSTRACT:

Samuel Phillips Huntington’s thesis on the ‘Third Wave’ of democratisation, as presented in his seminal work “The Third Wave: Democratization in the Late Twentieth Century”, posited democracy as the preeminent and widely accepted form of governance. While democracy may prevail quantitatively in contemporary times, it grapples with numerous challenges in terms of its qualitative aspects. This research article identifies the absence or dearth of ethical values as a significant factor contributing to the erosion of democracies worldwide. Moreover, this erosion has the potential to incite a ‘new wave against democracy’. Consequently, this article aims to explore the potential remedy for this issue by anchoring democracy in an ethically conscious society. We contend that an ethically grounded society serves as a fundamental prerequisite for nurturing a high-quality and prosperous democracy, ultimately acting as a formidable barrier against the imminent and looming threats to democratic systems.

The link to the article

In a world of fast-escalating environmental challenges, the idea of sustainability comes as a ray of hope for a safe and sound future. The present scenario calls for the kind of development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the future. In this regard, the Department of Chemistry at SRM University-AP organised a colloquium, that aimed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the concepts of Green Chemistry.

Dr Ram Mohan, an expert in the field of Green Chemistry and a renowned academician at the Department of Chemistry, Illinois Wesleyan University, delivered a lecture on the topic “Better Living Through Green Chemistry: An Introduction to Toxic Molecules”. Dr Mohan spoke elaborately on the grave dangers of toxic molecules and their adverse effects on the environment and human health. He raised awareness about the critical role of green chemistry in reducing the usage of such harmful molecules and replacing them with environmentally safe alternatives.

Dr Mohan also conducted workshops on “Better Living Through Green Chemistry”, as a continuation of his lecture. During the workshop, he quoted several case studies that showcased the benefits of using environmentally safe processes and chemicals in industry. These case studies demonstrated how the practice of green chemistry can lead to the development of numerous Eco-friendly processes and chemicals that have greatly improved human life and reduced environmental impact.

Success Mantra for Managers

Paari School of Business, the management precinct of SRM University-AP, hosted a dynamic panel discussion titled “Success Mantras for Managers” with experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts. The four-member panel consisted of industry stalwarts from various fields of management and the keynote speaker, Mr Mukesh Jain, who is the CTO, VP & Global Head of People Analytics.

During the event, Prof. Bharadhwaj Sivakumaran, the Dean of the Paari School of Business, explained the purpose and significance of the event. He highlighted that the panelists had gained practical experience by failing and bouncing back, as well as observing and learning from people throughout their careers, and could provide insights on what it takes to succeed in the corporate world. Mr Mukesh Jain, the keynote speaker, shared his wisdom and motivation during the event. He stated, “the key skill one needs to possess as an entrepreneur is to have a good understanding of how things work”.

The panel discussion that followed Mr Jain’s speech was moderated by Mr Sidharth Shankar Tripathy, a Harvard alumnus and the present Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at SRM University-AP. The discussion was insightful and inspiring as Mr Tripathy posed thought-provoking questions to the panel members.

Mr Tripathy started the discussion with a stimulating idea, stating that a mantra is a successful formula that has the power to transform. He questioned the panel members about the criticality of the idea of corporate athleticism and received an astounding response from Mr Nayanjyoti Goswami, Managing Director, Finance Operations & Strategy, State Street, who stated that it is often less about degrees and more about one’s attitude to work.

Mr Satish Rajarathnam, Head of People & Administration, RCG Global Services emphasised the need for collaboration and networking as a leader. He also highlighted the importance of functional knowledge, communication, networking and marketing skills. Ms Jyothsana Kuchimanchi, Senior Director- United Health Group, explained that change is an integral part of a manager’s life, and a manager should always be ready to adapt and upskill oneself to cope with changes.

Mr Anandan Jayaraman, COO FCC, Society Generale Global Solution Centre discussed the need for a manager to empathise with the customer and team members by putting himself in their shoes. The dynamic members of the panel cited the importance of self-learning and self-training, which can motivate team members, suggesting that a leader is a reader and should always update and upskill himself.

The panel discussion was an absolute game-changer. The insights shared by the speakers were incredibly valuable and contributed to the student’s understanding of what it takes to be a successful manager.

Success Mantras for Managers

Prof. Bandaru Ramarao, who currently serves as the Chair of Chemical Engineering at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, visited SRM University-AP to explore potential collaborations between the two prestigious institutions.

During his visit, Prof. Ramarao conducted an engaging session with the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora; Director of International Relations and Higher Studies (IR&HS), Ms Aditi Jain; and senior members of the faculty where they discussed various opportunities for collaboration, including the possibility of establishing an association for Masters and Ph.D. students, faculty and student exchange programmes, and scholarship collaborations for faculty members. Dr Jayaseelan Murugaiyan, Associate Dean in-charge of Sciences, proposed that the varsity could opt for a co-guide system between SUNY ESF and SRM AP.

Prof. Ramarao also delivered a seminar focused on “Techniques for Analysis of Transport Processes in Fibrous and Porous Media,” which was attended by enthusiastic masters and research scholars from the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering. The session was highly informative and provided valuable insights into the techniques used for analysing transport processes in fibrous and porous media. The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session. A token of appreciation was presented to Prof. Ramarao, culminating the visit into a huge success and paving the way for fruitful collaborations between the two institutions in the future.

 

Human capital plays a crucial role in shaping an organisation’s growth in today’s digital age. It’s the idea generated by the human capital that leads to innovation. Dr A Lakshmana Rao, Associate Professor, Department of Commerce, along with his research scholars Ms Sreya B and Mr Akhil Pasupuleti, conducted a comprehensive study on human resource management in the information technology sector of Kerala. Their research paper titled “Exploring Human Capital’s Role in Driving Sustainable Organisational Development in the Era of Internet of Things” focuses on 320 participants from Kochi Infopark and investigates the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) on their lives.

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT), a network of interconnected devices and sensors linked through the Internet, facilitates the connection between individuals, their devices, and vast amounts of data. Within companies, the human resources department plays a crucial role in managing the pressure generated by various aspects, including marketing, development, and the application of IoT in human resources. This study is motivated by the need to understand the potential of IoT in strategic human resource management practices. To explore the fundamental strategic human resource management practices and assess their mediating effects, this research gathered data from 320 respondents in the Kerala information technology sector, specifically Kochi Infopark, consisting of both lower-level executives and senior managers. The study utilises statistical analysis to examine the relationship between sustainable human resource practices, the Internet of Things, and sustainable human resource growth. Furthermore, the study highlights the IoT’s role as a mediator between strategic human resource management practices and factors contributing to sustainable HR growth, demonstrating a positive impact of independent variables on dependent variables. These findings emphasise the potential for organisations to enhance HR practices, decision-making, and innovation using IoT during crises and uncertainties. Integrating IoT with SHRM empowers organisations to effectively manage challenges and complex environments.

Practical Implementation

a) Employee Monitoring Systems: Implement IoT-enabled employee monitoring systems using sensors and wearable devices. This allows organisations to collect data on employee activities, health, and work environments. Analysing this data helps identify patterns, optimise resource allocation, and enhance overall employee well-being.

b) Talent Management Solutions: Utilise IoT devices to gather data on employee skills, competencies, and training needs. This information is valuable for developing personalised training programs, creating career paths, and strategising succession plans. Integrating IoT into talent management aligns HR practices with evolving workforce needs, leading to improved satisfaction and retention.

c) Remote Work Solutions: In times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, leverage IoT-enabled remote work solutions. These solutions facilitate seamless communication, collaboration, and virtual team management. Integrating IoT with HR practices enables organisations to effectively manage remote workforces, maintain employee engagement, and adapt to challenging circumstances.

 

Social Implications

a) Improved HR Practices: Integrating IoT with HR practices enhances decision-making and fosters innovation. This, in turn, contributes to improved HR practices, ensuring that organisations are equipped to address contemporary challenges and complexities.

b) Employee Well-being: The use of IoT in employee monitoring systems promotes a holistic approach to employee well-being. Organisations can proactively address health and safety concerns, leading to a healthier and more engaged workforce.

c) Skill Development and Career Growth: IoT-driven talent management solutions contribute to individual skill development and career growth. Employees benefit from personalised training programs, creating a positive impact on professional development.

d) Crisis Adaptability: The integration of IoT in remote work solutions demonstrates organisational adaptability during crises. This not only ensures business continuity but also highlights a commitment to employee welfare in challenging situations.

e) Technological Advancement: Embracing IoT showcases an organisation’s commitment to technological advancement. This can enhance the organisation’s image, attracting top talent and positioning it as an industry leader.

Future Research Plans

In their upcoming research endeavours, the trio will focus on unlocking the bottlenecks of IoT-driven remote work dynamics and its influence on collaboration, productivity, and employee well-being in the post-pandemic context. They also plan on exploring the impact of interconnected devices on the moonlighting behaviours of employees and employment trends in IT firms and among professionals.

We wish the trio all success in their future endeavours.

Dr Ghanshyam Pandey, an Assistant Professor at the Department of Economics, has been invited to deliver a talk on Risk Management and Sustainability on January 25, 2024, at the Department of Economics and Finance, BITS Pilani K K Birla Goa Campus.

Dr Pandey is a distinguished member of SRM University-AP’s teaching faculty and an accomplished economist with numerous publications to his credit. He has led several prestigious government-sponsored projects and is the Principal Investigator for the NABARD-sponsored project titled, “Tenancy and Credit: Exploring Facts below the Crust in AP”.