"WE FOSTER A CULTURE OF RISK-TAKING"

In a conversation with BW Businessworld, BUDARAJU SRINIVASA MURTY, Director, IIT Hyderabad, talks about the current approach of the institution to match the pace of academia and industry

- Shruti Tripathi

How has IIT Hyderabad carved a niche for itself among all the other IITs?

IIT Hyderabad, one of the second-generation IITs established in 2008, is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. We are proud of its ability to innovate and adapt more readily than older IITs, fostering a culture that embraces new ideas and risktaking. I believe failure is an essential component of learning and growth and that approach is pushing us to achieve success.

A hallmark of our educational philosophy is the introduction of fractal academics. Unlike traditional semester-long courses, IIT Hyderabad offers courses that can run for just one or two weeks, known as 'point-five credit courses' or 'one-credit courses. This flexible system allows students to explore various subjects and delve deeper into areas of interest by selecting more comprehensive courses in those domains.

In line with our innovative spirit, IIT Hyderabad has launched several unique B.Tech programmes tailored to meet industry demands and student interests.

Notable among these is the B.Tech in Engineering Sciences, which permits students to customise their curriculum by choosing courses across different disciplines. Additionally, the institution offers specialised programmes in Biomedical Engineering, Bioinformatics and Industrial Chemistry.

How is IIT Hyderabad working to keep pace with the industry?