Introducing Inclusivity and Academic Prowess, says Dr. Adesh Kr. Pandey, Director Academics, KIET Group of Institutions

In coversation with Shiksha.com, D r. Adesh Kr. Pandey is an academician, researcher, consultant, and mentor with 24 years of teaching experience for graduate, and postgraduate students, and Ph.D. Currently, he is working with the KIET Group of Institutions as Director Academics. Dr. Pandey has authored 8 books on programming, Discrete Structures, Automata Theory and Compiler Design with well-known publishers.

As Director of Academics, Dr. Pandey leads a team responsible for academic planning, quality assurance, and institutional rankings. He oversees various aspects of academic administration, such as autonomous programs, data management, accreditation processes, research, industrial connect and holistic development of students.

Q1. Can you please provide us with an Overview of the KIET Group of Institutions and Its Mission?

KIET Group of Institutions is a group of distinguished educational institutions in the Delhi-NCR region after it was established in the year 1998 under the aegis of the Krishna Charitable Society. Located in Muradnagar, Uttar Pradesh, KIET Group of Institutions began with a handful of students which has now grown into a vibrant academic community of over 8,300 learners, supported by a thriving alumni network of more than 20,000 members.

In 2024, KIET received an autonomous status, and secured an affiliation of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), for the first time. KIET has the power to design its own curriculum and conduct independent examinations. So, KIET students will be entitled to degrees without any interference from the university. This advantage will keep all KIET programs in step with the demanding requirements of contemporary industry and international trends in academics to provide a more dynamic learning experience.

More recently, it has continued to make its education quality, skills-based, and values-driven in Engineering & Technology, Pharmacy, Management, and Computer Applications. The pursuit of excellence in academics can be seen in the "A+" Grade NAAC accreditation and recognition by NBA for many programs.

The students at KIET are benefitted through state-of-the-art infrastructure consisting of well-equipped academic buildings, a fully-furnished library, modern hostels, extensive sports facilities, and Centers of Excellence. Besides that, KIET strongly believes in complementing education with real-time exposure. Its importance lies in Corporate Relations and Placement Centre, which prepares students for successful careers through an consistently impressive record with the best of national and international recruiters.

KIET Group of Institutions Mission

• To provide digital and professional communication skills directed towards a result-oriented mindset powered with a heightened sense of value system and work ethics.
• To develop admirable aptitude expertise and logical orientation towards problem solving.
• To ensure ethnic sensitization and gender parity for synergistic collaboration and assimilation at the workplace.
• To develop master finesse and polished behaviour empowered with skill upgradation and drafting sure shot route for employability and entrepreneurship.
• To guide students towards turning their dreams into reality by aptly choosing a suitable stream of higher education and/or competitive examinations.

Q2. What sets KIET apart from other Engineering and Technology Institutions?

The 26-year journey of KIET Group of Institutions seems to say more than that. It indicates the tremendous foundation of trust that has been built over the years and honed by fine-tuning the teaching techniques while strengthening ties with the industry. It exemplifies the very strong alumni network that actively supports students in finding ways to succeed. We know the technology landscape continues to evolve, and we adapt constantly to keep pace with it.

Autonomy has been liberating. It permits us to alter our syllabus regularly and ensure that it was up to date with technological advances and what the industry expected. It's not old information that prevents us from moving forward; instead we are able to easily introduce new technologies and specialized skills that are highly sought after by employers.

The last of the pillars is innovation in learning. We go well beyond traditional lectures. It is not just doing practices in our labs but hands-on, experiential learning in the world with critical problem solving. Of course, our faculty members are encouraged to use the latest tools and teaching strategies as provided in creating a learning environment that is engaging and forward-thinking in nature.

However, this commitment does not stop at the academic end. We also care for the all-around holistic formation of students. A environment friendly campus life equipped with clubs, activities, and sports provides a vibrant environment conducive to developing personalities into self-assured, well-rounded individuals with leadership qualities, interpersonal skills, and a distinctive sense of community. Our aim is to build not merely professionals but citizens responsible for ethics.

This also forms the backbone of our industry collaboration as well as placement readiness. Our dedicated placement team works hand-in-hand with industry leaders to understand their needs so that the training is invariably targeted and effective. It is because of these that our bright students, attuned with a massive network of alumni, have access to the leading companies through their placement programs.

Finally, however, the distinguishing factor is the specialized Centers of Excellence that we have. The centers will give students an opportunity for exposure to hands-on experience with innovative research as well as real-world applications backed by expert mentors. They will serve as launch-pads for creativity to give our students a competitive edge as they step into the industry.

Q3. How has KIET adapted to the changing landscape of Education and Technology in recent years?

At KIET, we are always looking beyond and are nimble to respond to the evolving changes in the worlds of education and technology.

Our Proactive Approach

Firstly, we have completely overhauled our curriculum. Being autonomous, we can adapt and introduce timely areas like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, and Cybersecurity as on-the-go subjects of update so that our students shall have the prerequisite skills to take on tomorrow's professions.

We have, of course, fully embraced modern teaching methodologies, with technology-enabled classrooms and digital learning platforms, focused on hands-on, experiential learning approaches, such as working in laboratories or solving problems in industry-based projects. A perfect example is our partnership with Mercedes-Benz India for Automotive Mechatronics; here, students are in real-time exposure on the work they do with state-of-the-art technologies.

This is a major priority to ensure, our programs remain relevant in the industry. Therefore, regular interactions with industry professionals result in providing opportunities for internships, and our impressive placement record showcases how ready our students are for the job market. We also have a serious commitment to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. The Innovation Centre and Technology Business Incubator (TBI) provide an excellent environment for students and faculty to think through an idea, make prototypes, or startup their own company.

KIET's educational philosophy extends beyond mere academics into truly holistic student development which incorporates soft skills like teamwork and communication. Our curriculum integrates ethical values and aspects of the Indian Knowledge System so that students become conscious, well-rounded individuals. We, at KIET Group of Institutions, believe that competent teachers can make the difference, therefore, we keep investing in the professional development of our faculty so that they are in touch with current educational tools, techniques, and trends.

To summarize, KIET is always ahead in curriculum innovation, adoption of new-age teaching practices, enhanced partnership with industry, promotion of entrepreneurship, emphasis on holistic development, and sustenance of best faculty. We empower students to succeed in the dynamic world of profession.

Q4. Could you highlight some of the recent accomplishments or milestones achieved by KIET?

Our Recent Triumphs at KIET

We are proud of what we have accomplished lately at KIET. Here are some of the highlights:

Academic Prowess & Recognition

Maintaining a NAAC 'A+' accreditation and many of our top programs with NBA accreditation, KIET Group of Institutions proves a commitment to quality. The Institute has an NIRF Ranking with the Pharmacy School securing rank of 77 nationally in 2024, and Engineering in the rank band of 151-200 in 2023. In addition to this, we were in the top 51-100 for Innovation in NIRF 2023 – which is a testament to our forward-thinking approach. Our recent autonomous status is a huge win, allowing us to design highly industry-aligned curricula. And our students continue to shine, consistently securing top ranks and gold medals in AKTU examinations.

Innovation & Research Power

Our High Centers of Excellence in areas such as Automotive Mechatronics and Robotics are buzzing with cutting-edge research and hands-on learning. The faculty and students at KIET Group of Institutions are actively involved in research, leading to numerous patents and over 224 research publications in just the last academic year. Our Technology Business Incubator (TBI) is even recognized by the Ministry of Defence, fostering new student startups. We also recently hosted a DRDO-sponsored workshop on advanced materials, showing our deep engagement in research.

Industry Readiness & Placements

We maintain a strong placement record with top national and multinational companies. We have seen packages as high as ₹60 LPA recently! The continuous industry collaborations through internships and guest lectures ensure that the students are truly industry-ready, and the dedicated placement team provides ongoing training and support.

Modern Infrastructure & Sustainability

KIET Group of Institutions is constantly upgrading the labs and facilities to provide the best learning environment. And we are recognised for our green campus initiatives, showing our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Student Success Beyond Academics

Our students consistently excel in national and international competitions, from hackathons like Smart India Hackathon to various technical events and sports. They have clinched top positions in AKTU zonal, state-level sports, and even competitions organized by IITs.

These achievements really highlights KIET's dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and helping our students grow holistically.

Q5. In what way does KIET foster a Culture of Inclusivity and Diversity on Campus?

Our Core Belief at KIET: Inclusivity

At KIET, inclusivity isn't just a buzzword or a policy—it's at the very heart of who we are. We’re deeply committed to building a campus where every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered to grow, no matter their background, beliefs, or identity.

How We Create an Inclusive Campus

• Fair and Clear Admission Policy: The admission process is strictly on the basis of merit and is devoid of any prejudice. Students from every corner of the country and every walk of life are most welcome.
• Supportive Campus Culture: We have established robust mechanisms for the rapid and compassionate resolution of complaints. Student welfare committees, together with dedicated counseling services, ensure that students have a safe place to turn to at all times.
• Celebrating Diversity: The beauty of diversity is accepted. Through cultural clubs, events, and festivals, we celebrate India’s immense diversity by encouraging students to share their heritage and learn from each other.
• Commitment to Gender Inclusivity: The institute strongly promotes gender equality through separate and well-maintained hostels, continuous workshops on gender sensitivity, and strong support for female involvement in every aspect of campus life.
• Teaching Without Barriers: Each and everyone must be given such an opportunity to access the best education available. We therefore offer scholarships and financial assistance to economically disadvantaged students.
• Different Teaching Practices for Different Leaning: Going with a multitude of approaches, our faculty encourage free discussion that creates an atmosphere in which students feel comfortable and free to express their views.
• Recognizing Everyone’s Contribution: We honor every single voice and every perspective offered. We celebrate diversity here. There is a sense of pride in our very efforts promoting that everyone belongs and is treated with respect and dignity within our community.

Always evolving at KIET is constantly reevaluating and constantly improving its inclusion practices. Diversity is not an initiative for us but a part of our identity that drives the creativity, expands horizons, and strengthens campus culture in every way.