THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a groundbreaking development, APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) has become the first state institution to unlock the doors of research for four-year undergraduate degree holders. Breaking away from the traditional norms, the university has introduced a new policy that allows engineering graduates with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 7.75 to directly enrol in PhD programs starting from the current academic year (2023-24). This significant change replaces the previous requirement of a master’s degree for PhD enrollment.
This progressive move by KTU aligns with the latest regulations set by the University Grants Commission (UGC), which now permits candidates to pursue a PhD after completing a four-year undergraduate program. This bold decision opens up new avenues and opportunities for BTech graduates who have excelled in their engineering or architecture studies, provided they have achieved a CGPA of at least 7.75.
Furthermore, the eligibility requirements for MTech degree holders have been revised, with a CGPA of 5.75 being the minimum standard necessary to pursue research at the PhD level. Moreover, even final-year BTech students can now apply for PhD programs by submitting their semester grades obtained thus far, granting them an early opportunity to embark on their research journey.
By embracing this progressive approach, APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University is leading the way in redefining the traditional criteria for pursuing advanced research. This shift in policy not only recognizes the potential and capabilities of undergraduate students but also encourages a more inclusive and diverse research community, fostering innovation and excellence in the field of engineering and technology.
As per the statement made by Shalij P R, the esteemed Dean (Research) of APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU), an exciting development awaits aspiring researchers. In a commendable effort to support and encourage research pursuits, KTU plans to grant fellowships to 100 full-time PhD students, an initiative spearheaded by the university itself. This generous fellowship program serves as a testament to KTU’s commitment to nurturing and promoting academic excellence.
Moreover, it is worth noting that the fellowships awarded by KTU are in addition to the existing fellowships offered by the Directorate of Technical Education. These prestigious fellowships are exclusively available to selected students undertaking research in government engineering colleges. By providing these additional fellowships, KTU and the Directorate of Technical Education jointly aim to create a thriving research ecosystem that incentivizes and empowers deserving scholars to contribute significantly to their respective fields of study.
This unique opportunity not only ensures financial support for talented individuals pursuing their PhDs but also underscores the commitment of KTU and the Directorate of Technical Education to foster a vibrant research community in the state. By investing in the future of research and innovation, these institutions are paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements that will shape the technological landscape of the region and beyond.
With the dawn of promising career opportunities in research and development institutions, APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) foresees a surge in the number of students enrolling in its PhD programs this year, according to the insightful remarks made by Dean (Research) Shalij P R. This projection reflects the growing interest and recognition of the university’s research programs as a pathway to thriving careers in the field.
To ensure a rigorous and merit-based selection process, admission to the PhD programs at KTU is contingent upon both entrance tests and interviews. As part of this comprehensive evaluation, candidates must secure a minimum of 50% marks in the entrance examination to become eligible for the subsequent interview round. This stringent criterion aims to identify the most qualified and motivated individuals who possess the potential to excel in their research pursuits.
Presently, KTU boasts a robust research community, with approximately 800 researchers actively engaged in PhD programs across its affiliated colleges. This diverse and talented cohort contributes to the university’s vibrant academic environment, fostering collaboration and innovation in various domains.
By expecting an upsurge in enrolment for its PhD programs, KTU signifies the growing recognition of the importance of research and development in today’s dynamic job market. The university’s commitment to nurturing scholars through a competitive admission process and providing them with ample research opportunities reflects its dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators in the realm of technology and engineering.
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