Chennai: In a significant move to enhance skill development among working professionals, Anna University's academic council on Thursday approved a decision to offer work-integrated Bachelor of Engineering (BE) and Bachelor of Technology (BTech) programmes with flexible timings. Under this initiative, each affiliated college will be permitted to offer up to three courses, with an intake of 30 seats per course.
Eligibility and Enrollment Details
Employees working in private or public limited companies, as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) located within a 50-kilometer radius of the college, are eligible to apply for these programmes. The classes for BE and BTech courses will be conducted in the evening or at any other flexible convenient timings, including weekends and holidays, as stated by Anna University registrar V Kumaresan. He noted that industries are showing increased interest in upgrading the qualifications of their diploma-holding employees.
Candidates who have completed a diploma can enrol in these courses from the second year onward as lateral entry candidates, allowing them to complete the degree in a shorter duration.
Credit Transfer and Work Experience Requirements
In line with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) regulations, up to 40% of the total credits can be transferred through Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) offered on the SWAYAM portal. Applicants must have a minimum work experience of one year or be a regular employee of the company.
Background and Institutional Response
A few years ago, 22 engineering colleges located near industrial hubs such as Sriperumbudur, Gummidipoondi, Salem, Tiruppur, Coimbatore, and Trichy received permission from AICTE to offer work-integrated BE and BTech programmes. However, they were awaiting Anna University's approval, which has now been granted.
Abhay Meghanathan, vice-chairman of Rajalakshmi Group of Institutions, welcomed the decision, calling it a long-overdue and positive move by Anna University. He mentioned that auto ancillary companies like Mando are interested in upgrading their employees, and the institution expects a good number of admissions. Rajalakshmi Group plans to offer mechanical engineering, civil engineering, and electronics and communication engineering to the first batch.
K A Mohamed Junaid, principal of RMK Engineering College, stated that the college is planning to offer mechanical, electronics and communication engineering, and computer science engineering from this academic year.
Additional Approvals
Anna University has also approved an increase in the number of lab-integrated theory courses from this academic year, further enhancing the practical learning component of the programmes.
