Pune: Ajeenkya DY Patil University (ADYPU) inaugurated its Centre of Excellence for NextGen Space Technology, designed for students eager to engage with India's booming space industry.
The official opening ceremony was presided over by Air Vice Marshal Rajiva Ranjan, alongside Dr. Rakesh Kumar Jain, Vice Chancellor of ADYPU, and renowned expert Nishakant Ojha, among other distinguished guests.
This new Centre will be equipped with cutting-edge facilities and advanced equipment, promoting a culture of innovation on campus. It will provide a variety of structured programs, including short-term certificate courses aimed at students, as well as customized training for defense personnel, professionals, and technocrats.
Air Vice Marshal Ranjan highlighted the essential role educators play in shaping future leaders who will drive technological advancements in the country. He discussed the importance of recent developments in technology for peaceful purposes, particularly in agriculture and space communications.
He emphasized the need for synergy between academia and industry, stating that the Centre would play a pivotal role in achieving this goal.
Dr. Ajeenkya DY Patil, the university's president, noted "This Centre marks a significant step in our mission to provide a holistic education that not only imparts technical skills but also fosters an entrepreneurial spirit among our students," he stated.
As India emerges as a leader in space exploration, Dr. Patil emphasized the increasing need for skilled professionals capable of developing cost-effective and accessible space technologies. He expressed optimism that the Centre would play a transformative role in space research education.
Dr. Rakesh Jain observed that ISRO's recent accomplishments, especially with successful missions like Chandrayaan, have inspired a new wave of enthusiasm for space technologies among youth.
He pointed out that the privatization of space initiatives has created a robust demand for qualified space technologists, and this Centre is poised to help students explore their interests in this dynamic field.
Dr. Nishakant Ojha added that the Centre will focus on advancements in space technology, particularly in defense applications, and will engage students across all engineering disciplines.
Key topics of study will include satellite technology, space-based sensors, missile defense systems, advanced propulsion systems, and cybersecurity for space assets.
