The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati is entering into a partnership with All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to explore solutions to issues related to water, electricity, internet for the AICTE affiliated institutions in North East India.
Both IIT Guwahati and AICTE will work collaboratively towards capacity building in these institutes for promoting research and development to enhance quality of education in the regions of North-East India.
Owing to the hilly terrain of the region, an adequate supply of power and safe drinking water are a challenge. Apparently this project is a first of its kind that aims to provide quality infrastructure to remotely located institutes. The project includes solar energy solutions, different installations depending upon the requirements of the institutes and upgradations for safe drinking water with RO or iron remover.
The first phase of the project is scheduled to be completed by the end of this month. Whereas Phase 2 of the project has just been started and will soon cover 33 new institutions. Digital connectivity which is a major concern is also being taken up in Phase 2.
Outlining the impact of the project Professor Sharad B Gokhale, Head, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Guwahati stated, “This project provides an opportunity for us to enhance the learning environment of northeastern technical institutions of India by facilitating basic infrastructures such as clean water, renewable electricity and communication. The institutes as well as the people will benefit greatly through these enhancements and will empower further growth and development of the region."
In addition, Professor T G Sitharam, Director, IIT Guwahati said, “the institute is continuously thriving to forge closer network with institutes in this region for providing knowledge based support, skill development and technical expertise to improve the overall quality of education and supporting infrastructure in a sustainable manner."