RBU setting up digital platform to run skill-based courses

Nagpur: The Ramdeobaba University (RBU) has developed an advanced digital platform to provide high-quality, skill-based courses across various disciplines to its students and those belonging to collaborating institutions. The university is also planning to establish partnerships with premier organisations like DRDO, ISRO, BARC etc to offer a range of industry-relevant courses. Additionally, a school of defence studies is in the pipeline.

Currently, 1,600 students from RBU are enrolled in Google's Generative AI certification course, and the university has also subscribed to Coursera, a renowned American online course provider. Starting January, students from RBU and collaborating universities will have access to high-quality, skill-based content from the digital platform, which will be comparable to a university.

During a press conference, chancellor SS Mantha stated that these courses would be developed by the world's most distinguished professors. He explained that establishing a digital university (DU) can effectively meet the 50 gross enrollment ratio (GER) requirement outlined in the NEP.

Mantha emphasised that the DU will be a valuable asset to Maharashtra, providing free education to underprivileged individuals and creating numerous employment opportunities. It would also accelerate the ‘Make in India' and Startup India initiatives of the Government of India.

He also underscored the importance of upskilling, "as today's skills have a limited shelf life".

Another significant initiative of RBU is the creation of an ecosystem modelled after the Fraunhofer Institutes, seamlessly connecting industry with the university's academics. The chancellor explained that the start-up culture would receive a boost through collaborations with leading industries, providing students with practical experience through internships and co-op programmes, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Mantha highlighted several key initiatives currently underway at the university, such as an industry-ready curriculum that includes fields like AI, Robotics, Data Analytics, Green Energy, and EV technologies, ensuring that students are at the forefront of industry trends. He announced that the university is launching one-year certificate courses in ‘Sthapatya Ved', a science of architecture that combines Mathematics, Yoga-Sutra, Quantum Physics, and Planetary and Earth Science, as well as Vedic Mathematics to enhance students' analytical skills while understanding ancient knowledge systems. All these courses can be accessed at rbunagpuronline.in.

Starting January 1 next year, courses for working professionals will be launched, offering both Bachelor's and Master's Programmes in science, engineering, and technology. Professionals will even have the opportunity to complete their PhD programme integrated with the Master's Programme.

RBU is also establishing several new research centres dedicated to technology and engineering. These centres will provide students and faculty with opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research.