Revitalizing STEM Education

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Indian STEM education requires enhanced industry-relevant training and research-oriented teaching to address skill gaps in graduates.

India's higher educational institutions face challenges in producing industry-ready STEM graduates, as many lack essential skills despite the expansion of institutions like IITs. The issue stems from a shortage of qualified faculty and an overemphasis on rankings, publications, and patents, often at the expense of effective teaching and research. Current faculty training mainly focuses on producing research output, impacting the quality of graduates. Ranking institutions separately based on teaching or research focus could improve learning outcomes. A suggested approach includes collaboration between research and teaching institutions, where students gain practical experience through internships and real-world applications. Institutions could follow models from the U.S. and other countries, encouraging partnerships between academia and industry. Additionally, focusing on faculty development, cross-disciplinary programs, and joint research opportunities can further align education with industry needs. A concerted effort from the government, educational institutions, and industry is essential to bridge this gap, ensuring STEM graduates meet the standards demanded by India's socio-economic landscape.