Sunday, October 13, 2013

Engineering Education

Engineering Education




When I was studying for Engineering there were only 6 Engineering Colleges and only 3 branches Civil,  Electrical and Mechanical. Now there are about 125 Engineering colleges and about 10 different branches. When I was studying the intake was less than 1000 whereas now the intake is about 30,000. This much  growth was not required and everyone wants to be an Engineer. As banks are financing all are studying.

Since AICTE is particular most of the colleges are having reasonably good infrastructure. But most of the students admitted are having only marks minimum required for admission and some join the course due to pressure from parents when they themselves are not at all interested.

Engineering is mainly an application of Maths and physics and those who are not very good in these subjects can not pass Engineering. In my times if a student does not pass first year in 3 chances they will not be permitted to continue the course. Now that there is unconditional promotion whether he passes or not he will be promoted. I have seen many completing the course but not passed more than 50 subjects. Eventually many just wander here and there without a degree or job

Also since there are more colleges getting qualified faculty is very difficult. They also do not have dedication. In most Colleges more than 80% of staff are ladies. Number of students in many classes more than 70. Lady faculty is finding it difficult to handle and manage the classes.

The pass percentage in most colleges now less than 40. In effect many are frustrated and may become criminals. Funny thing is still Government thinking of increasing the number. Unless necessary action is taken to improve education standards it is going to be disastrous 


Dr.Mohamed Ali essa