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The Evolution of Engineering Education in India: IUCEE’s Journey from Vision to Impact by Dr. Uohna Thiessen, Nextelligence, USA

“I am teaching, but are they learning?”

This profound question has driven Dr. Krishna Vedula’s efforts to transform engineering education in India for over a decade. “I am teaching, but are they learning?” has become the mantra and foundational philosophy behind the Indo-Universal Collaboration for Engineering Education (IUCEE) and continues to shape the future of technical education across the subcontinent.

A Visionary’s Journey

The story of IUCEE begins with Dr. Krishna Vedula, a 1967 graduate of IIT Bombay who dedicated his life to engineering education in the United States. After decades of teaching abroad, Dr. Vedula returned to India in 2008 with a crucial observation: despite dedicated teachers and bright students, something was missing in the engineering education ecosystem. The disconnect between teaching and learning was palpable. I am teaching, but are they learning? he asked himself.

This realization led to the establishment IUCEE, an initiative designed to bridge the gap between teaching and learning in engineering education. Dr. Vedula’s approach was unique – he understood that effective teaching goes beyond the traditional classroom model and must embrace a holistic view of education.

The Sanskrit Wisdom in Modern Education

IUCEE’s approach is fascinating because it combines traditional Indian educational philosophy with modern pedagogical frameworks. Dr. Vedula used his decades of experience and insights from ancient Sanskrit teaching methodology to develop a comprehensive teaching model that aligns with Bloom’s Taxonomy:

  • Adhyapak: Focuses on delivering foundational knowledge and skills to students.
  • Upadhyaya: Facilitates learner’s comprehensive and profound grasp of the subject matter.
  • Acharya: Guides trainees in the practical implementation and utilization of knowledge.
  • Pandit: Mentors researchers in developing independent judgment and rigorous analysis.
  • Guru: Foster’s apprentice ability to creatively integrate knowledge and develop innovative solutions.

Each of these terms highlights an aspect of educators’ roles in guiding future engineers. They emphasize the importance of imparting technical knowledge and skills while nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and a passion for innovation. By inspiring and empowering students, educators shape the future of engineering, developing responsible, ethical, and globally aware professionals equipped to tackle society’s complex challenges. “I am teaching, but are they learning?” Considering this question, IUCEE sought to develop well-rounded engineers by blending traditional wisdom and modern pedagogy.

IUCEE’s Evolution Through Annual Conferences

Since its inception, IUCEE has used its annual conference (ICTIEE) as a powerful platform for change. The conference journey tells its own story of growth and adaptation:

  • 2014: Inaugural conference at BVBCET, Hubli
  • 2021-2022: Virtual conferences during global challenges
  • 2023: Return to physical format at Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering, Mysuru
  • 2025: The latest edition held at VNRVJIET, Hyderabad, focused on the GenAI era

ICTIEE 2025: Reshaping Engineering Education for the GenAI Era

The most recent conference showcased IUCEE’s progress in achieving its vision. Representatives from 50 universities across India attended the International Conference on Transformations in Engineering Education (ICTIEE) 2025, held from January 8 to 10, 2025, at VNRVJIET. This year’s theme was “Reshaping Engineering Education for the GenAI Era.” The event also included the IUCEE Annual Student Forum (IASF), emphasizing the importance of adapting engineering education to meet the challenges of the GenAI era. I am teaching, but are they learning? The conference challenged attendees to consider how AI will continue to change the educational landscape.

Distinguished Speakers and Global Expertise:

Renowned international speakers, including AI experts from India and the USA, shared their insights on the future of engineering education, enriching discussions with their diverse perspectives.

Kalyan Ram of Indxo AI Pvt. Ltd. (India) and Dr. Uohna Thiessen of Nextelligence (USA) brought their expertise in artificial intelligence and its applications in education.

Dr. Yash Tadimalla (UNC Charlotte, USA) and Dr. Deepak Gadhia (Chairman, Sunrise CSP India Pvt. Ltd.) shared perspectives on industry-academia collaboration.

Dr. Prathiba Nagabhushan (Australian Catholic University) contributed valuable insights into international educational practices.

Dr. Sudarshan Iyengar (IIT Ropar), Dr. Sohum Sohoni (Milwaukee School of Engineering), Dr. Bill Williams (University of Lisbon), Dr. Archana Mantri (Anurag University), and Dr. Raju Dandu (Penn State University) contributed additional thoughts and insight, enriching the conference with their diverse global perspectives.

Innovation in Focus: Workshops and Sessions

The three-day event featured a comprehensive program of workshops and sessions centered on transformative themes:

  • Artificial Intelligence in Engineering Education: Sessions explored AI’s role in shaping future engineers and its integration into modern pedagogical approaches
  • Industry 4.0 Implementation: Practical workshops demonstrated the application of AI and Machine Learning in solving industrial challenges
  • Sustainability and Social Impact: Discussions focused on environmental challenges and opportunities in engineering education
  • Professional Development: Sessions covered crucial topics, including Social Emotional Learning (SEL), AI Literacy, Visual Thinking, and Design Thinking

Student Innovation Showcase and Networking

The IASF Student Project Showcase was a conference highlight, offering aspiring engineers a platform to present innovative solutions. An expert panel evaluated the projects, celebrating engineering creativity and practical application excellence. Throughout the conference, dedicated networking sessions fostered meaningful connections among participants. As one attendee noted, “This conference was truly a game changer. I am walking away with new knowledge and an introduction to a supportive community I didn’t expect to find.”

The ICTIEE 2025 conference concluded successfully, celebrating the achievements of student projects and chapter activities. Awards and recognitions were presented to students and faculty. The festivities ended, and students showcased their talents through dance performances featuring traditional and modern Indian dance, paying tribute to India’s booming movie industry. We were then treated to a lovely banquet of Indian food and delicacies.

IUCEE’s Continuing Mission

The conference established new standards for engineering education in the AI era by enhancing the connection between academia and industry. It provided a platform for dialogue, set benchmarks, promoted international knowledge sharing, and inspired future engineers. Culminating with a commitment to transforming education through innovative teaching methods, industry collaboration, and sustainability, ICTIEE 2025 has laid a solid foundation for future progress.

Dr. Vedula, the director of IUCEE, leads the organization in promoting collaboration between Indian institutions and global experts to enhance the employability and leadership skills of engineering graduates. His student-centric philosophy, captured in the question, “I am teaching, but are they learning?” challenges educators to prioritize learning outcomes. The success of ICTIEE 2025 stands as a testament to IUCEE’s impact, paving the way for future advancements in India’s engineering education. ICTIEE 2026 is anticipated to be even more impactful, with Dr. Vedula expressing his enthusiasm and optimism for the future with his customary chant, “Jai Ho!”