Vidya launches PALS Chapter to strengthen Industry–Academia collaboration
Vidya stands as a key enabler of industry–academia synergy and innovation-driven learning through collaborations with reputed organizations and engagement with real-world technological and business trends.
PALS (Pan IIT Alumni Leadership Series) is a volunteer-driven initiative by IIT alumni dedicated to enriching engineering education. It connects students and faculty with industry professionals through workshops, training sessions, innovation challenges, and internships, fostering skill enhancement, entrepreneurship, and industry readiness. The program acts as a bridge between academia and industry, promoting collaboration and continuous learning.
The PALS (Pan IIT Alumni Leadership Series) VAST Chapter Launch was held on October 4, 2025, in the Main Seminar Hall of Vidya Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Thrissur. The event commenced at 10:00 AM with a solemn prayer, setting a dignified tone for the proceedings.
The formal ceremony began with the Welcome Address by Dr. Abitha M. A., Associate Professor, ECE Department, and PALS Chapter Coordinator. This was followed by the Presidential Address delivered by Dr. Sunitha C., Principal, VAST, who reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to strengthening industry–academia partnerships.
The chapter was officially inaugurated with the Inaugural Address by Shri Anto Varkey, PALS Representative. The formal session also featured Felicitations by Mr. Suresh Lal, Executive Director, VAST, who emphasized the significance of such initiatives in enhancing institutional growth. The constant guidance and support of Dr. Shalij, Academic Director, VAST, contributed immensely to making the event a remarkable success.
The core of the program was dedicated to enlightening students and faculty about the mission and vision of PALS. Shri S. P. Ashokkumar, PALS Representative, conducted a detailed PALS Overview Session, outlining the diverse activities of the chapter, including innovation challenges, technical lectures, and workshops—each designed to enhance technical skills and professional readiness.
Following this, Shri P. V. Ravindran, PALS Representative, highlighted the vital role of PALS programs in bridging the gap between classroom learning and industrial requirements. The representatives also engaged students through an interactive session, providing them with an excellent opportunity to ask questions, clarify doubts, and gain firsthand insights into the organization’s objectives.
The establishment of the PALS VAST Chapter marks a significant milestone for the institution, offering numerous benefits to the VAST community. The chapter’s primary objective is to make students “Industry Ready.” Through expert lectures, site visits, internships, and innovation-driven projects, students gain valuable industry exposure, practical skills, and mentorship from IIT alumni and domain experts, fostering confidence and real-world competence.
The collaboration also presents vital opportunities for faculty development. It promotes curriculum modernization by incorporating insights from industry, ensuring that teaching practices align with current technological trends. Faculty members gain access to Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) and specialized workshops led by industry professionals, which enhance pedagogical effectiveness. Moreover, the partnership paves the way for research and consultancy opportunities, encouraging faculty to transform theoretical knowledge into practical industrial solutions.
The event concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Thulasi Rajan, Assistant Professor, CSE Department, and PALS Executive Committee Member. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Principal and the VAST management for their vision and unwavering support in establishing the chapter. Special appreciation was extended to the PALS Representatives—Shri Anto Varkey, Shri S. P. Ashokkumar, and Shri P. V. Ravindran—for their engaging presentations and inspiring interaction with students. The speaker also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Mr. Suresh Lal, Executive Director, the organizing faculty team, and the enthusiastic student participants, whose collective efforts ensured the grand success of the PALS VAST Chapter Launch.
