After a patient wait, Karnataka has finally got its very own branch of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Dharwad district with a total capacity of 120 students who will be the first-ever batch to graduate.
Spread over the 600-acre Water and Land Management Institute (WALMI) premises, the inaugural function of the college was held on Monday.
Equipped with a seven-member faculty team, the college will follow a curriculum similar to that of IIT Powai in Mumbai. Out of the seven professors, three have been assigned administrative responsibilities. Also, residential and canteen facilities have been provided for both students and staff members.
Out of the 120 students who've enrolled at IIT Dharwad, eight students hail from Karnataka.
To kickstart their academic year on a sweet note, the students were offered Dharwad pedas, a delicacy popular in the district since the pre-British era. On the day of orientation, students were briefed about the cultural heritage of Dharwad district, the neighbouring areas, the curriculum, other facilities and the schedule for the year.
"Computer science, Electronics and Mechanical sections have been started and the laboratories are also ready with necessary infrastructure. Classes will be held from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm. Lab classes will be from 2 pm to 5 pm," said Dharwad IIT Dean Professor Narayana Punekar.
The Indian Institutes of Technology is considered one of the top engineering institutions in the world. Its primary objective is to create a talented pool of trained engineers and scientists with professional excellence who will contribute to the economic and social development of the nation. Graduates from IIT have a popular demand among multi-national companies.
Slated for a grand-scale inauguration on July 31, the celebration was delayed as a result of Mahadayi river protest in Karnataka.
