“Original Creative Research Will Outsmart AI” – Prof. Ganguli Addresses SRM AP on the 9th Research Day
SRM University-AP commemorated its signature event, Research Day Ninth edition, on April 11, 2025, celebrating the relentless spirit of enquiry, excellence and innovation. The esteemed event witnessed the gracious presence of Prof. Ashok K Ganguli, Director-IISER Berhampur, Odisha, as the chief guest along with the university leadership Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora, Registrar Dr R Premkumar, Dean-Research Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Research Day Convenor Dr Sunil Chinnadurai, Deans of other schools, faculty, staff and students.
In his welcome address, Prof. Manoj Arora elucidated the significance of research and innovation in the university’s academic structure and plan to achieve institutional excellence. He stated, “Research Day is fundamentally a platform to identify talented students who have the potential to work on innovative ideas that can be implemented to benefit society.” He also mentioned the future prospects of establishing a Ratan Tata Innovation Hub in Amaravati, where SRM AP will play a pivotal role in one of the five spokes.
Prof. Ganguli, an experienced researcher and scientist, appreciated Research Day as a pioneering initiative by SRM AP to promote a vibrant research culture across all academic levels. He said, “With a faculty pool with excellent pedigree, international exposure and a strong research acumen, SRM University-AP is on the right path to academic and research excellence.” He also discussed the transformation of teaching and research in the future years, emphasising that in the era of the AI revolution, novel, innovative research and creativity will triumph over robotic intelligence.
The event revealed the abstract book comprising 263 UG/PG and 131 PhD abstracts in more than 30 thematic areas. 17 students were awarded gold medals, and 5 were awarded silver medals in the UG/PG category. In the PhD category, 10 scholars won the gold medals, and 5 won the silver medals.
For their outstanding contribution to cutting-edge research, selected faculty members of SRM AP were recognised with Best Researcher Awards. Dr Pardha Saradhi M was honoured with the Best Experimental Researcher Award, Dr Murali Krishna E with the Best Theoretical Researcher Award, Dr Dinesh Reddy V with the Best Industrial Researcher Award and Dr Harish Puppala with the Best Young Researcher Award. The faculty were felicitated with a memento and a cash prize of Rs 50,000/- for their high-quality research.
The 9th Research Day has successfully concluded, celebrating talent, perseverance, and innovation. With an unwavering commitment to interdisciplinary research and international collaborations, SRM University-AP advances to the frontiers of academic and research excellence.
- Published in News, Research Events, Research News, University Event
76th Republic Day Celebrations: Student-Athlete and Olympian Jyotika Sri Dandi Rewarded with Cash Prize
SRM University-AP honoured the 76th Year of India as a Republic with regal celebrations at the campus. Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora hoisted the flag in the presence of Registrar Dr R Premkumar, Deans and Directors, faculty, staff and students, followed by a parade by the security staff of the university. Ms Jyotika Sri Dandi, student of Easwari School of Liberal Arts who represented the Indian team at the Women’s 4x400m Relay for the Paris Olympics 2024, was also present for the occasion.
In his address, Prof. Manoj K Arora spoke about the country’s golden heritage and the battle for freedom led by our freedom fighters and visionary leaders, which led to the momentous victory of Purna Swaraj. He underscored the significance of our Constitution representing the values that unite the diverse nation. “Our country has developed in leaps and bounds with our pivotal position on the global economic front, achievements in education and sports, and our advanced space programme. India is on its way to becoming a developed nation by 2047, and we must strive together as citizens to achieve this inclusive vision,” stated Prof. Arora in his address. He also briefed on the university’s stellar growth in academics, research and innovation, entrepreneurial startups, infrastructure and the plan for the upcoming year.
The celebration also witnessed the felicitation of the student-athlete and Olympian, Ms Jyotika Sri Dandi, who participated in the Paris Olympics 2024. The university awarded her a reward cheque of Rs 20 Lakhs for her remarkable contribution to Indian sports and her alma mater. In her address of gratitude, she stated, “SRM University-AP provided me with immense support for my academics with scholarships and the best resources for training. With two Olympians already in its fold, I am sure that in 10 years we will harbour the best contingent of athletes and academicians among all Indian universities.”
Pro-Chancellor Dr P Sathyanarayanan sanctioned Rs 70 lakh to be awarded to students who have won various national and inter-university sports championships. Cash prizes ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 1,00,000 were awarded to student-athletes for their exemplary sports performances during the event. Faculty and staff who have rendered five years of service to the university were also honoured with a memento and certificate in recognition of their contribution to the university’s development. The Republic Day celebrations concluded with various cultural programmes by students celebrating the diversity of the great nation.
- Published in Events, News, University Event
The Key to a Transformative Future – Systems Engineering Summit 2025 at SRM AP
“The future is going to be a system of systems,” – Mr Dasari Ramakrishna, CEO & MD of Efftronics Systems Pvt. Ltd. at the Systems Engineering Summit 2025 hosted by SRM University-AP.
SRM University-AP kicked off the prestigious Systems Engineering Summit 2025 (SES 2025) on January 23, 2025, partnering with Efftronics Systems Pvt. Ltd., INCOSE India, IEEE Systems Council, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Information Technology Association of Andhra Pradesh (iTAAP). This two-day summit, to empower the next generation of system engineers, is designed as an outreach initiative to introduce students, faculty, and industry professionals to fundamental concepts, techniques, and exciting career thoughts in systems engineering.
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora remarked, “Systems Engineering is a highly interdisciplinary field that overarches all branches of engineering and management disciplines. The SES 2025 is an informative platform for young engineers to understand how systems engineering drives innovation in today’s complex world.”
This summit brought together thought leaders and industry practitioners from different sectors, such as aerospace, automotive healthcare, defence, and industry manufacturers, for an array of keynote sessions and panel discussions on systems engineering as a key to navigating the transforming world. Mr Dasari Ramakrishna of Efftronics Systems Pvt Ltd opined that Systems Engineering provides exceptional aspirational directions and career thoughts. He said that in this rapidly evolving world, automation with a system of systems integration is the future, and it is time to introduce the concept into the curriculum of higher educational institutions.
An MoU was signed between SRM University-AP and Efftronics Systems Pvt. Ltd. to ensure active industry participation in academia, bridging the gap between the classroom and the workforce. SRM University-AP and the other participating universities, VIT-AP University, Vignan University, Siddhartha Academy of Higher Education, and Acharya Nagarjuna University, also signed an MoU with INCOSE India, exploring various opportunities to ensure the academic curriculum of the universities are made industry-ready.
Dr Yogananda Jeppu, Executive Committee Member – Academia, INCOSE India, Technical Fellow and Systems Architect – Boeing, stated, “The collaboration between industries and educational universities is the driving force of innovation. In a world of interconnectedness and complexity, systems engineering is the interdisciplinary field that will break the silos and bring innovation through its methodology.”
Notable dignitaries from industry, academia and the government including Smt. Lakshmi Mukkavilli, President, IT Association of Andhra Pradesh, MD – Patra India BPO Services; Dr S V Kota Reddy, Vice Chancellor, VIT-AP University; Prof. Paruchuri Venkateswara Rao, Vice Chancellor, Siddhartha Academy of Higher Education; Prof. K Gangadhara Rao, Vice Chancellor, Acharya Nagarjuna University; Cmde. Dr M S Raghunathan, Registrar, Vignan University; Dr Maheswar Dwivedy, Associate Dean – Academia-Industry Relations and Professional Internships, SRM AP also shared their insights on the significance of this prestigious summit.
The Systems Engineering Summit 2025 organised as a joint initiative by SRM AP and various organisations, proved to be not just a summit but a call for action. The summit inspired a meaningful dialogue to create a roadmap for technological advancements in systems engineering for a more equitable and more sustainable society.
- Published in News, Research News, University Event
Renowned Nanoscientist Prof. Pulickel M Ajayan Delivered UDL#19
“Engineering very small things, structures less than 10nm, is challenging – and this is my biggest interest.” – Prof. Pulickel M Ajayan.
The university hosted its nineteenth edition of the University Distinguished Lecture, featuring a celebrated talk on “Nano-Engineered Materials” by eminent scientist Prof. Pulickel M Ajayan, Benjamin M. and Mary Greenwood Anderson Professor of Engineering and Founding Chair of the Department of Materials Science and Nanoengineering at Rice University, Texas, USA on January 07, 2025. A pioneer in nanotechnology with a noteworthy career extended to three decades, Prof. Ajayan’s session elucidated the recent developments in nanotechnology, particularly in relation to the challenges in designing and controllably synthesising functional nano-engineered materials.
Prof. Ajayan spoke extensively on the three major key points – Atomically Thin Layers (2D) Vertical and Lateral Heterostructures, Defects & Single Atoms and Printed 3D Nano-architectures & Nanocomposites. “Three decades ago, nanotechnology or nanomaterial science was just emerging. Today, it has become an enabling technology with fundamental developments in controlled manufacturing of nanomaterials,” remarked Prof. Ajayan in his lecture. He proceeded to elucidate the various phases of nanotechnology – the first phase, where scientists worked on the fundamental understanding of material synthesis, controlled fabrication, etc.; the second phase of integrating nanotechnology into potential devices; and the current phase of high-tier development through commercialisation.
“A prominent figure in nanotechnology, Prof. Ajayan’s work in carbon nanotubes is exemplary in understanding the building of nano heterostructures. It is a privilege to have him share his wealth of knowledge on this remarkable occasion,” said Prof. CV Tomy, Dean – SEAS, in his welcome address. Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Dean – Research, also praised Prof. Ajayan for his contributions to nanoengineering and material science. Prof. Ajayan also had a brief interaction with the faculty regarding potential academic and research collaborations.
The 19th University’s distinguished lecture on nano-engineered materials ignited genuine curiosity about the field among the participating students. The profile of Prof. Pulickel M Ajayan and his astounding research portfolio motivated both faculty and students to explore nanoengineering and material sciences. The 19th UDL was graced by the presence of Registrar Dr R Premkumar, Deans of various schools, faculty from various streams and students of the varsity. The UDL series is a testament to the university’s passion for research and commitment to place SRM AP in the frontiers of academic and research excellence.
- Published in News, Research News, University Distinguished Lecture, University Event
A Grand Book Exhibition Successfully Concludes at SRM AP
The Central Library hosted a highly successful Book Exhibition from November 21 – 23, 2024 in collaboration with Shah Books House (Hyderabad), Shanthi Book House (Chennai), and ISKCON Society (Vijayawada). The exhibition offered a wide range of books covering academic references, research materials, and general interest genres, catering to students, faculty, and staff. Special discounts were available to attendees, making this event an enriching experience for everyone involved.
Our exhibition was inaugurated by Dr Vinayak Kalluri, Dean – Academic Affairs and Prof. C V Tomy, Dean – SEAS in the presence of Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora, who praised the exhibition’s ability to promote reading habits and encourage academic curiosity among students and faculty alike. Over 500 attendees, including students, faculty members, and visiting scholars, enthusiastically participated, all of whom explored the rich collection of books on display.
The collaboration with the partnering organisations ensured that the needs of the academic community were met, with resources spanning across disciplines, research interests, and general reading preferences. Many students highlighted the wide variety of books available, extending beyond the core curriculum and including topics catering to their interests and career goals. Faculty members appreciated the opportunity to recommend books for future acquisitions, ensuring the library remains up-to-date with the latest academic trends and resources.
The 2024 Book Exhibition was a resounding success, fostering a deeper connection to reading within the SRM University-AP community. The collaborative efforts of the vendors and ISKCON Society, along with the enthusiastic participation of students and faculty, made this a memorable event. Moving forward, the university plans to expand future exhibitions by incorporating more digital reading resources and hosting guest speakers to enhance the experience further.
- Published in News, University Event
Honouring the Founder’s Legacy: Celebrating the Vision and Impact of an Inspiring Leader
On August 24, 2024, SRM University-AP commemorated a significant event marking the 85th Birthday of the esteemed Founder Chancellor of the SRM Group, Dr T R Paarivendhar, celebrating his visionary leadership and contributions. In honour of this day, and reinforcing the ethos of sustainability and environmental consciousness, the university launched “Prerna Vanam,” a plantation-drive initiative.
This annual initiative served as a testament to the varsity’s ongoing efforts to contribute positively to the environment, aligning with global sustainability goals and the founder’s visionary ideals. As we face the challenges of global warming, the varsity comes together to combat climate change, support biodiversity, and ensure a sustainable future. The event held at the university campus was attended by students, staff, and faculty members of the university and helped set a practical example of how institutions can play a pivotal role in making the world a better place for future generations by investing in ecological sustainability.
- Published in News, University Event
Nurturing Vision, Inspiring Futures: 2nd Alumni Meet Celebrated
SRM University-AP conducted its 2nd Virtual Alumni Meet on August 24, 2024, coinciding with the birthday celebration of the Founder Chancellor of SRM Group, Dr T R Paarivendhar.
The meet attracted a diverse group of alumni, including South Indian film actress and former SRM student Ms Iswarya Menon, who served as the chief guest. Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora addressed the alumni with a compelling message about their role in shaping the future. He emphasised the importance of alumni involvement, stating, “Your contributions are crucial as we work towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.” Prof. Arora highlighted how the alumni’s active participation in building an alumni corpus and supporting the university will play a key role in driving the institution’s progress and fostering future generations of leaders.
He further noted that the alumni’s continued engagement not only benefits the university but also strengthens the support network available to current and future students, ensuring the sustained success of the varsity’s mission of excellence.
Chief Guest Ms Iswarya Menon, a former SRM student, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the institution. “The guidance and support I received from SRM have been pivotal in my career development. I am truly grateful for the foundation laid here, which has significantly shaped my professional journey.”
The group of former students communicated their profound appreciation for the varsity, emphasising the significant impact it has had on their lives. They reaffirmed their commitment to actively support the university’s various initiatives and to aid in its continued growth and success.
Dr Satish Anamalamudi, Assistant Director-Alumni Relations, acknowledged the importance of alumni engagement. He remarked, “Your continued connection with SRM University-AP is essential for our growth and success.”
The event was further enlivened by performances from both alumni and current students, adding a dynamic and festive atmosphere that showcased the vibrant spirit and creativity at SRM University-AP. Registrar Dr R Premkumar, along with the deans and faculty, attended the gathering, reinforcing the strong and enduring bond between SRM University-AP and its alumni.
- Published in Alumni, Alumni Relations, News, University Event
Joining Hands to Save Lives: Celebrating World Blood Donor’s Day
In a commendable display of community spirit and dedication to saving lives, SRM University-AP hosted a Blood Donation Camp to honour World Blood Donor’s Day. Organised in collaboration with Guntur Medical College, the event marked a significant success and underscored the university’s steadfast commitment to societal welfare.
The camp’s inauguration was graced by Chief Guest Mr Venugopal Reddy, Collector of the Guntur Region. He was accompanied by Dr V Kiran Kumar, Chief Surgeon, and his team from the Government Blood Centre at Government General Hospital-Guntur, Dr R Premkumar, Registrar of SRM University-AP, and Ms Revathi Balakrishnan, Associate Director of Student Affairs, and other key dignitaries witnessed the inaugural ceremony.
In his opening address, Mr Venugopal Reddy stressed the crucial significance of blood donation, emphasising that “Blood is a vital component that cannot be artificially manufactured in laboratories.”
Registrar Dr Premkumar emphasised the importance of donating blood and highlighted that “donation continues to be the sole way to guarantee an ongoing supply of this life-saving elixir.” He stressed the significance of these camps in cultivating a culture of altruism and accountability within the university community.
The university enthusiastically participates in coordinating frequent blood donation drives to support the community and meet the demand for blood donations. The event also served as a platform to dispel myths surrounding blood donation, thereby encouraging broader participation. The students, faculty, and staff of SRM University-AP showed immense enthusiasm in donating blood, significantly contributing to the camp’s outstanding success.
Adding to the day’s significance, Dr Karthik Rajendran, Associate Dean-QAR, was honoured with the Lifesaver Award by the Indian Red Cross Society. This prestigious accolade was bestowed in recognition of his substantial contributions to blood donation and his unwavering commitment to saving lives.
The varsity’s Blood Donation Camp exemplifies the profound impact of collective effort in addressing critical healthcare needs. It highlights the university’s unwavering commitment to making a positive societal impact and reinforces the importance of regular blood donation and community service.
- Published in Departmental News, News, student affairs news, Students Affairs Events, University Event
SRM University-AP Successfully Hosts UDGAM-’24, Celebrating National Sportsmanship
SRM University-AP, the proud organiser of the national-level sports event UDGAM-’24, graciously hosted a spectacular display of talent and sportsmanship on its grounds, wrapping up with a heartfelt closing ceremony on Saturday, March 2, 2024. The event, which commenced on February 29, was a testament to the spirit of unity and competitive excellence, with teams from across the nation showcasing their prowess in cricket, kabaddi, and volleyball.
The university extends its warmest congratulations to all the participating teams, especially highlighting the commendable performances of the Guntur Kits Engineering College cricket team, the kabaddi players from Amritasai Engineering College, and the volleyball teams from Saint Ann’s College and Mohan Babu University. Their dedication, skill, and sportsmanship have been the true highlights of this event.
SRM University-AP‘s grounds were alive with enthusiasm and energy, as athletes from various institutions came together to push their limits and celebrate the true spirit of sports. The cricket final was a particularly memorable moment, with the teams displaying exceptional talent and teamwork. The kabaddi and volleyball matches were equally riveting, filled with moments of sheer determination and exemplary skill.
The closing ceremony was a moment of unity and celebration, with Asian Games silver medalist Ms Jyothi Yerraji gracing the occasion to award the trophies to the deserving winners. The university’s registrar, Dr R Premkumar, led the event, emphasising the values of sportsmanship and camaraderie that Udgam- ’24 aimed to promote. The university also took the opportunity to express its gratitude towards all the participants, coaches, and supporting staff who contributed to the success of this grand sporting festivity.
In a humble acknowledgement of the collective effort, the university’s administration, including Dr Prem Kumar and Mr Anil Nigam, Director-Student Affairs, honoured the chief guest and all the participating athletes, appreciating their hard work, spirit, and the joy they brought to the SRM University-AP campus.
As we close this chapter of Udgam-24, SRM University-AP looks forward to fostering a continued legacy of sportsmanship, encouraging healthy competition, and nurturing the talents of young athletes from across the nation. We are inspired by the passion exhibited by all teams and are proud to have provided a platform for such a dynamic and inspirational exchange of athleticism and goodwill.
- Published in Departmental News, News, Sports News, University Event
Shaping an Academic Scholarly Milieu: Grand Launch of Easwari School of Liberal Arts
SRM University-AP relaunched the School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences as the Easwari School of Liberal Arts, establishing a new era of transformative learning and research to address the complexities of human society. The school was inaugurated in the august presence of Pro-Chancellor Dr P Sathyanarayanan; Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora; Members of the Governing Body – Prof. Pradeep Khosla, Chancellor, University of California, San Diego, Prof. Nicholas B Dirks, Emeritus Chancellor, University of California, Berkeley, Prof. Prasant Mohapatra, Vice Chancellor for Research and Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, University of South Florida, and Prof. Andrew D Hamilton, President, New York University; Dean – Easwari School of Liberal Arts, Prof. Vishnupad; Deans and Directors of various departments and faculty, staff and students of the university. Prof. Gopal Guru, Former Professor, Center for Political Studies, JNU; Prof. Janaki Bakhle, Associate Professor at the University of California, Berkeley; and Prof. Chandan Gowda, Ramakrishna Hegde Chair Professor, Institute of Social and Economic Change, Bengaluru, graced the momentous occasion as Guests of Honour.
The rechristened Easwari School of Liberal Arts aims to propel students’ intellectual, emotional and ethical growth, equipping them to become future knowledge creators. “The launch of Easwari School of Liberal Arts is a testament to the university’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning and research. Through a sound liberal arts education, we aim to cultivate diversified skills among our students,” remarked Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora in his address. Prof. Vishnupad, Dean – Easwari School of Liberal Arts, further expounded on the symbolic renaming of the school and its established imperative to foster a three-fold growth in students – emotional, ethical and intellectual.
Pro-Chancellor, Dr P Sathyanarayanan commented that Easwari School of Liberal Arts opens the doorway to a brave new world of learning that will forge visionary thinkers. The School advocates breaking the academic silos of disciplines and offering students a more comprehensive integrated learning experience. In his address, Prof. Nicholas Dirks, Honourary Pro-Chancellor and a Governing Body member of SRM AP, stated, “Liberal Arts is a constitutive element of comprehensive education. SRM University-AP, with the launch of a dedicated School of Liberal Arts, is on its path to develop into an excellent comprehensive institute of higher education.”
The grand launch also witnessed a keynote speech by Guest of Honour, Prof. Gopal Guru, on the significance of liberal arts education in comprehending, analysing and solving the complexities of postmodern society. Insightful and inspiring book discussions on the books “Savarkar and the Making of Hindutva”, authored by Prof. Janaki Bakhle and “Another India: Events, Memories, People”, by Prof. Chandan Gowda, offering critical insights into the raw sentimentality of Indian society were highlights of the event.
The Easwari School of Liberal Arts harbours a robust, socially relevant, innovative curriculum, a distinguished and committed faculty, and imaginative and engaged teaching and learning methods to cultivate a class of motivated student ambassadors of tomorrow. In addition to offering traditional programmes such as B.A/B.Sc.(Hons.) in English, Economics, History, Psychology and B.Com in International Accounting; the School has also launched three pioneering programmes, namely, B.A. (Hons.) in Politics, Media Studies and Sociology and Anthropology, to equip students on how to address the socio-political, cultural and economic outlook of today’s society. With a novel pedagogy, these innovative programmes nurture logical reasoning, dynamic perspectives, rigour in thought and ideas, and critical reflection among students.
- Published in News, SLASS, University Event