AEC: Lacking Agility

The first engineering college of the State – the Assam Engineering College (AEC), which boasts of completing its six decades of existence — needs a massive turnaround only to stay relevant in the fast-changing global environment. Lack of agility of the institution to cope with the changing global scenario will throw it into a state of obsolescence. It is notable that Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), a Maharatna-cum-Fortune 500 oil company, could not find suitable candidates to be absorbed in their esteemed organization when they visited the campus for recruitment a few years ago. This should have been an eye-opener to all stakeholders of the institute, as its relevance in the national arena has been questioned. An attempt to survive only on its past glory will be suicidal; it is high time enough dynamism and agility were infused. The institute has already failed to attract young talents to choose the institute as their preferred destination for career as faculty members. Areas of improvement are galore, including adoption of latest pedagogy like combination of lectures, audio visuals, simulation, group task and rigorous laboratory experimentation etc. Establishment of an e-library is of paramount importance as well. The importance subscribing international journals to present a global environment to the students is of equal importance. Relevance of a full-fledged IT wing for the institute to transform it into a digital world is beyond any doubt. Civil infrastructures like permanent boundary wall, facilities etc. are also lacking badly. But one may raise a question where from funds will be managed? But, where there is a will, there is a way. Solutions will evolve if ideas are allowed to roll.

Mrityunjoy Khound,

Numaligarh Refinery Township.