Srinivas Institute, Nirmiti Kendra Ink MoU to Foster Innovation in Construction and Skill Development
Mangaluru, April 24, 2025: In a move aimed at bridging the gap between academia and industry, Srinivas Institute of Technology, Valachil—a unit of the A. Shama Rao Foundation—entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dakshina Kannada Nirmiti Kendra to promote innovation and skill development in construction technologies.
The MoU was formally signed at a ceremony held at the institute’s seminar hall, with participation from top officials of the district administration and academia.
Presiding over the event, Dr A. Raghavendra Rao, Chancellor of Srinivas University and President of the Foundation, said the partnership would enhance practical learning and encourage innovative thinking among students. “This MoU is a strategic asset that will nurture creativity and help students position themselves uniquely in the job market,” he remarked.
Mullai Muhilan M.P., Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada, who was the chief guest, underlined the long-term potential of such academic-industrial linkages. Referring to a recent student initiative involving visual documentation of the old DC office, he said, “That creative effort has now evolved into this MoU. Students should aim to create structures so imaginative that they become signatures of their design philosophy.”
Project Director of Nirmiti Kendra, Rajendra Kalbavi, noted that the association began with a training programme and has now matured into a formal collaboration. “Architecture students should also consider leadership roles in public administration to contribute meaningfully to society,” he added.
Dr. A. Srinivas Rao, Pro-Chancellor of Srinivas University, highlighted the potential of the partnership in positioning Mangaluru as a centre of architectural excellence. “Just as China has leveraged architectural tourism, we aim to make Mangaluru a creative destination through design and innovation,” he said.
The event also featured the release of a student-authored publication, “From Shrines to Skylines: Nepal Through Our Eyes”, chronicling insights from an educational tour to Nepal.
Dr. Srinivas Mayya D., Principal of Srinivas Institute of Technology, was present alongside Assistant Professor Leslie J. Dais, who offered a detailed briefing on the MoU. The ceremony included a welcome address by Architect Vasudeva N. Shet and a vote of thanks by Architect Kumarachandra M.R.
