You Can’t Build Viksit Bharat Without Innovation: IIT Hyderabad Director
In an era where artificial intelligence is transforming careers, the Indian education system faces criticism for its rigidity and exam-centric approach. Professor B. S. Murty, the Director of IIT Hyderabad, is at the forefront of a revolutionary approach to higher education that prioritizes creativity, innovation, and practical skills. His vision challenges traditional notions of success and aims to prepare students for a future that values deep-tech innovation.
The Need for Change in Indian Education
Professor Murty has often articulated his concerns regarding the rigidity of the Indian education system. He believes that students are confined to a structured learning environment that dictates what they should study and how they should pursue their careers. This straitjacketed approach, he argues, fails to cater to the aspirations of the current generation, which seeks freedom and flexibility in their educational journey.
“Older IITs and engineering colleges often have a curriculum that is very straight,” he explains. “Even electives are not real choices; students are often forced to take courses that are merely core courses in disguise.” This lack of genuine choice, he believes, stifles creativity and exploration among students.
The Importance of Deep-Tech Innovation
As India is predominantly recognized as a service economy, Professor Murty emphasizes the necessity of transitioning towards a product-driven nation. He asserts that no country has achieved developed status solely through service provision. “Every developed nation is known for its products,” he states. “For India to become Viksit Bharat, we must be recognized for our products and innovation.”
He envisions a future where products labeled “Made in India” are synonymous with high quality and global competitiveness, akin to products from countries like Japan and Germany.
The Future of Degrees and Skills
Professor Murty predicts a shift in the job market where degrees will become less relevant compared to practical skills. “In the years to come, people will care more about what you can do and the problems you can solve,” he asserts. This shift is already evident in the success of startups emerging from IIT Hyderabad, which he believes showcases the changing landscape of education and employment.
Defining Viksit Bharat
For Professor Murty, Viksit Bharat is not just a slogan but a tangible vision for the future of India. He defines a developed nation as one that excels in technology, innovation, and product creation. “Today, India is largely known as a service economy,” he reiterates. “To truly become Viksit Bharat, we must evolve into a product nation.”
The Role of Startups in Nation-Building
Startups play a crucial role in the narrative of Viksit Bharat, according to Professor Murty. He emphasizes that startups are not merely about financial valuation; they are fundamentally about value creation. “When a 19-year-old student tells me he has paid salaries to five employees, that is nation-building in action,” he explains.
In just six years, IIT Hyderabad has seen the emergence of 330 startups, generating revenue of ₹1,500 crore. This achievement signifies a shift towards job creation rather than job seeking, which is vital for India’s economic transformation.
Innovative Academic Structures
To foster creativity and exploration, IIT Hyderabad has introduced a unique academic structure known as Fractal Academics. This system divides the semester into six segments, allowing students to take short courses worth varying credits. “This approach encourages students to explore different interests before committing to full courses,” Professor Murty explains. “It’s like tasting food at a restaurant before deciding what you like.”
This academic freedom is a first in India and aims to cultivate a culture of exploration among students.
Integrating Liberal Arts into Engineering Education
Recognizing the importance of creativity in innovation, IIT Hyderabad has made liberal arts and creative courses mandatory for engineering students. Professor Murty believes that intuition is as crucial as intelligence for innovation. “Engineers are trained to calculate everything, but out-of-the-box thinking is essential,” he states.
To bridge this gap, approximately 10% of a B.Tech student’s total credits must come from liberal arts and creative arts, including subjects like anthropology, psychology, and even martial arts. This holistic approach aims to balance logical reasoning with creative thinking, ultimately enhancing innovation.
The Importance of Student Choice
Professor Murty advocates for student choice in education, arguing that young individuals should have the autonomy to decide their career paths. “At 17 years of age, we allow citizens to vote for the Prime Minister of India. Then why can’t they decide what they want to become?” he questions. He believes that education should empower students to explore their passions rather than confine them to predetermined career paths.
Redefining Success Beyond Salary
Addressing parental concerns about job security and salary, Professor Murty emphasizes the need to broaden the definition of success. “A student who builds a startup or works on socially relevant technologies may not earn the highest salary initially, but they contribute far more to the nation in the long run,” he explains.
At IIT Hyderabad, many students choose not to participate in placement drives because they are focused on building companies or engaging in research. This shift in mindset is crucial for fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in India.
Conclusion
Professor B. S. Murty’s vision for IIT Hyderabad reflects a transformative approach to education that prioritizes innovation, creativity, and student autonomy. As India aspires to become a Viksit Bharat, the emphasis on deep-tech innovation and the nurturing of entrepreneurial spirit among students will be vital in shaping the future of the nation.
Note: The insights shared in this article are based on the vision and beliefs of Professor B. S. Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad, as he discusses the future of education and innovation in India.
