Bridging the Gap: I-STEM's Synergy Initiative Unites Industry and Academia for Innovation

Imagine a future where academic brilliance directly fuels industrial advancements, driving both sectors to new heights. The I-STEM platform promises just that, fostering collaborations, providing access to high-end research equipment, and streamlining resource sharing. It's a leap forward for India's innovation ecosystem, promising a brighter, tech-driven future.

The I-STEM (Indian Science, Technology, and Engineering Facilities Map) initiative transforms India's innovation landscape by connecting industry with top science and technology institutions. This September, under the ‘Synergy’ program, industry bodies like CII and FICCI will submit their real-time technology and research needs to I-STEM, connecting them with academic institutions ready to tackle them.

While large companies often have their R&D units, many smaller firms lack such facilities and need practical solutions that students can provide. Dr. Harilal Bhaskar, COO and National Coordinator of I-STEM, says Synergy aims to integrate industry needs into engineering and science education, fostering product commercialization and indigenous development.

Since its inception in 2020, I-STEM has mapped research equipment across the country for optimal use. Currently, 578 institutions have made 26,967 pieces of equipment available to 23,068 users. However, most users (22,447) are from academia, with only 246 industry users, 170 by startups, and 246 by international users.

Industries often use academic research up to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7 but face challenges in developing actual products due to gaps in expectations and practical experience. Synergy aims to bridge this gap by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students through market linkages and encouraging industry investment in top-performing labs.

Final-year students will undertake industry-approved projects, potentially leading to internships and jobs. I-STEM also aims to ensure project continuity post-graduation, creating a robust ecosystem that integrates real-time industry requirements into education. This initiative promises to transform academic institutions into hubs of practical innovation, driving technological and economic growth in India.

For more details, check out the full article on the I-STEM initiative to bring industry, and S&T institutions closer on I-STEM initiative to bring industry, S&T institutions closer? - The Hindu BusinessLine