India Needs to Reinvent Engineering Education - Vineet Gupta Founder Plaksha and Ashoka Universities

In today’s fast-paced world, where technology and industry are evolving at an unprecedented rate, India’s engineering education system is in dire need of reinvention. Vineet Gupta, Plaksha University Founder advocates for a paradigm shift in how engineering is taught in the country. His vision focuses on modernizing the educational model to produce not just engineers, but innovative problem-solvers equipped to tackle the challenges of the 21st century. 

A Call for Engineering Education Reform

Vineet Gupta emphasizes that the traditional engineering education model in India has long been focused on theoretical learning, often neglecting the practical applications and interdisciplinary skills essential for today’s job market. “The future of engineering lies in its ability to integrate knowledge with real-world problem-solving capabilities,” Gupta asserts. He highlights the urgent need for institutions to bridge the gap between academia and industry by encouraging a more hands-on approach.

Plaksha University, founded with this vision in mind, is working to transform the way engineering students learn. The institution emphasizes project-based learning, internships, and collaborations with industry leaders. This model ensures that students are not only absorbing technical knowledge but also applying it in meaningful ways. “We need to shift from rote memorization to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and an entrepreneurial mindset in engineers,” says Vineet Gupta.

Fostering Interdisciplinary Learning

One of the key aspects of Gupta’s vision is the integration of interdisciplinary education within engineering programs. In today’s complex world, engineers need to be more than just technically proficient—they must also have a strong grasp of fields like data science, artificial intelligence, and even the humanities. Plaksha University’s curriculum is designed to allow students to explore these areas, providing a well-rounded education that is responsive to the evolving needs of the industry.

“The problems of tomorrow are going to require engineers who understand not just machines, but also the societal, ethical, and economic implications of technology. The issues we face today are far more interdisciplinary than ever before. To solve these complex challenges, we cannot rely on traditional, one-sided engineering solutions. Universities like Plaksha are setting a precedent by integrating diverse fields like data science, climate change, and water security, and this is the future of engineering education,” explains Vineet Gupta Plaksha University Founder. He believes that by merging different disciplines, students can become versatile professionals who can lead innovation across sectors.

The Role of Skill Development in Engineering

A significant part of Vineet’s vision is to ensure that engineering education is aligned with the skills required in the workforce. In India, engineering graduates often find themselves lacking the practical skills needed to excel in their careers. The NEP supports this vision by promoting multidisciplinary education, hands-on projects, skill-based courses, and industry internships, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the complexities of the real world. “Our goal is to equip students with a skill set that goes beyond the technicalities of engineering—problem-solving, leadership, and adaptability are equally crucial. Barring B.Tech programs, our M.Tech programs have remained traditional for too long, but the world has changed. To stay relevant, these programs need to evolve, embracing interdisciplinary approaches that prepare students to tackle real-world problems with innovative solutions,” remarks Vineet Gupta. By focusing on skill development, Gupta envisions a future where Indian engineers are not just participants in the global market but innovation leaders.

Promoting Lifelong Learning and Adaptability

The rapidly changing nature of technology means that today’s engineers need to be lifelong learners. It stresses the importance of adaptability, particularly in a field like engineering, where new technologies and methodologies emerge at a rapid pace. Engineers of the future must be equipped to continually upgrade their skills and stay relevant. 

While Gupta’s vision for a revamped engineering education system in India is promising, it is not without its challenges. Implementing such a comprehensive overhaul requires significant investment in infrastructure, faculty development, and industry partnerships. Moreover, changing the mindset of students and educators accustomed to traditional learning methods is another obstacle.

However, Gupta remains optimistic. “Reinventing engineering education is not just about changing the curriculum—it’s about changing the way we think about education as a whole. We need to create a culture where innovation, collaboration, and skill development are at the forefront. NEP is the beginning but it has significant potential to work for the better,” he explains.

A Vision for the Future

Vineet Gupta’s vision for engineering education is not just about producing competent graduates—it is about nurturing innovators, leaders, and change-makers. Through some excellent work at Plaksha and Ashoka Universities, Gupta is hopeful that India is setting new benchmarks for higher education. India’s engineering education system must evolve to meet the demands of a dynamic global market, paving the way for a future where engineers can not only keep pace with global trends but also lead the way in technological advancements. The future of engineering in India can be redefined by fostering a new generation of engineers who are adaptable, innovative, and socially responsible.