SRM University-AP formed a cluster with Acharya Nagarjuna University, KL University, Vignan University, and AIIMS Mangalagiri for the DST-SATHI initiative of the Ministry of Science and Technology. Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institute (SATHI) aims to provide professionally managed services with efficiency, accessibility and transparency of the highest order under one roof to service the demands of industry, start-ups and academia. Dr P Siddaiah – Dean, Acharya Nagarjuna University; Dr Mukesh Tripathi, Director-AIIMS Mangalagiri; Dr G Pardha Saradhi Varma – Vice Chancellor, KL University; and Dr P Nagabhushan – Vice Chancellor, Vignan University; attended the meeting held at SRM University-AP campus on Monday.
SRM AP Vice-Chancellor Prof V S Rao invited the Vice-Chancellors of the respective universities to come forward for the formation of a cluster for the ‘SATHI’ programme. Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof D Narayana Rao did an elaborate presentation on DST projects. “The host institute, which is the lead partner in the cluster, will have to provide a functional space of 20,000 square yards, and SRM University-AP is suitable for this in every way”, Prof D Narayana Rao said. “The equipment worth Rs 75 crore to be provided through the SATHI programme will help in carrying out extensive research in all the five universities,” he added. The Vice-Chancellors and Directors of these 5 institutions have agreed to form the cluster and submit the proposal to the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India. Professors of SRM AP and representatives of respective universities also attended the meeting.