APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University to start internship for B Tech students

Thiruvananthapuram: The APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University has introduced an internship for B.Tech students in industrial units during the two-month break between the second and third semesters. Through this unique scheme, the university aims to expose the students to the industrial atmosphere which will enable them to get placements after graduation.

All the engineering colleges in the state are affiliated to the university which was started at Chavadimukku, near here, two years ago. The total number of engineering students in the state is 58, 700. Though the internship is not compulsory, the students will get credit for doing it. University officials said that most of the students have opted for internships.

University Pro-Vice-Chancellor M. Abdul Rahman told DC that students and the faculty can identify the industries or work sites, big or small, for undergoing training. Studies have revealed that only 30 percent of the engineering graduates qualify for jobs, Mr Rahman said. All affiliated engineering institutions should encourage better interaction with industry, he said.

This will give students better exposure to the industrial atmosphere, Mr Rahman said. As per the revised academic calendar, the second semester classes ended on May 20 and the classes for third semester will begin on August 1. The regular university examinations ended on June 1. The students will get a two-month gap from the end of examinations and the start of the next semester classes, which can be utilised for internship, Mr Rahman said.