Jowai, Oct 24: As part of the Silver Jubilee celebration, the Jowai Polytechnic Institute organised Technophilia 2, a technical exhibition showcasing students’ creativity, innovative projects, practical skills and technical expertise.
Shri. Vijay Kumar Mantri, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary, Education Department attended as the Chief Guest, while Shri F.B.S. Ramsiej, Joint Director (Technical), Directorate of Higher and Technical Education (DHTE) attended as the Guest of Honour. Shri. F.Rumnong, Deputy Director (General) Directorate of Higher and Technical Education (DHTE) was also present.
The exhibition provided the students with a platform to present their innovative projects and demonstrate the value of hands- on learning in technical education.
Addressing the gathering, Shri. Vijay Kumar Mantri emphasised the need to shift from conventional textbook based education to practical skill-oriented learning. He encouraged institutions to prioritise hands- on training through laboratories, workshops and real-world projects from the beginning of students’ academic programmes.
Highlighting the growing accessibility of knowledge through digital platforms and artificial intelligence (AI), he stressed that practical skills and technical competence are becoming increasingly important in meeting industry demands. He also urged institutions to continuously update their curricula in line with technological advancements.
Citing examples from textile design, automobile engineering, he underscored the importance of practical expertise, including garment pattern making, while encouraging students to adapt to emerging technologies such as electric vehicles through experimentation and prototype development.
Speaking on architectural assistantship, Mantri emphasised the importance of integrating traditional architectural aesthetics with modern designs suited to local terrain and climatic conditions. He highlighted the importance of considering local terrain and heavy rainfall in architectural planning, particularly the need for sloping roofs and proper drainage to prevent water seepage and dampness.
He also called for strong industry collaboration and encouraged the institute to explore consultancy and infrastructure design projects under the internal revenue generation policy. He suggested collaborating with the office of the Deputy Commissioner to identify opportunities for students and faculty members to participate in upcoming government projects.
Urging faculty members to maintain close engagement with industries, he stressed that technical education must equip students with practical skills, creativity and adaptability to meet evolving professional demands.
Shri F.B.S. Ramsiej, congratulated Jowai Polytechnic Institute on its Silver Jubilee and acknowledged the contributions of former and serving principals, faculty members, staff, students and alumni, He emphasised the need to modernise laboratories, improve academic facilities and develop the institution into a centre of excellence in technical education.
Shri. F.Rumnong, Deputy Director (General) DHTE emphasised the importance of vocational education and multidisciplinary learning in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
He proposed a hub-spoke model to promote collaboration between technical and general educational institutions through shared resources and skilled based courses in architectural design, automobile engineering and garment technology.
He also commended the institute for providing students with a platform to translate classroom knowledge into practical innovations that benefit the society. Shri. Vijay Kumar Mantri inaugurated the exhibition, inspected the exhibits and interacted with the students about their projects and innovations.
