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What Sparked the Recent Shift in TN Students’ Attitudes Towards Embracing Core Engineering Courses?

The era when computer science engineering or IT engineering courses dominated the preferences of students has now faded into the past. The current narrative paints a different picture, where compared to the year 2022, there has been a significant upsurge in the number of students opting for traditional core engineering disciplines such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical and electronics engineering (EEE). This heartening shift in interest has brought smiles to the faces of many stakeholders in the education sector. In 2022, the mechanical engineering field struggled to fill just 35% of its available seats. However, the winds of change blew in 2023, as a substantial 52% of seats, equivalent to 10,051 out of the total 19,277, found eager takers in the mechanical engineering domain.

Similarly, the civil engineering domain witnessed a remarkable transformation. In 2022, a mere 28% of seats were occupied by aspiring civil engineers. Fast forward to 2023, and this figure has surged to 44%, signifying a renewed interest in the field. Notably, the trend extended to the EEE or ECE branches as well, where 2023 saw an even more pronounced increase in seat occupancy. This resurgence in enthusiasm for core engineering disciplines hints at a dynamic shift in the educational landscape, with a return to the foundational pillars of engineering drawing fresh attention and optimism.

The surge in students opting for core engineering subjects in 2023 can be attributed to a combination of factors, primarily stemming from the limited job opportunities within the IT sector. Simultaneously, there is a growing inclination among students to secure admission in the esteemed engineering institutions.

Renowned career consultant, Mr. Jayaprakash Gandhi, underscores a significant shift in the mindset of today’s students. He notes that students are increasingly willing to delve into core engineering disciplines, driven by the shrinking job prospects within the top IT companies. This change in perspective reflects a broader trend where job security and career prospects now take precedence over the allure of IT roles.

Vice-chairman Abhay Meganathan from the Rajalakshmi Group of Institutions in Chennai sheds light on this transformation. Just two years ago, students predominantly favored computer science engineering courses. However, the landscape has shifted, and students are now showing a preference for prestigious engineering colleges, even if it means exploring core engineering branches. This shift signifies a change in priorities, with students prioritizing the quality of education and career opportunities over the specialization of their field.

Interestingly, this shift towards core engineering subjects is not confined to metropolitan areas alone. Engineering colleges in tier 2 cities in Tamil Nadu have also witnessed a surge in admissions for core engineering branches. This widespread trend underscores the evolving preferences and aspirations of students, signaling a promising future for traditional engineering disciplines.

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