Home CSI NEWSTRAC A Newsletter from Computer Society of India, Mumbai Chapter APR - JUN 2010   An outlook towards CSI's Education Programs Dear Members, I would like to present my views and visions for further development of CSI's contribution in the Educational and Professional Skill development activities. CSI as an organisation has always been a body that promotes education and research activities on a National and International level. Some of CSI's objectives include - • Propagation of scientific and academic progress directed towards advancing all aspects of the theory, design and practice of Information Technology, including Computer Science, Computer Engineering & Technology and related Arts & Sciences. • Promote high quality educational and learning programs that are accessible on a lifelong basis to professionals. As an Indian body, it is our outlook that such programs should be accessible to all Indian professionals and pioneers including those working overseas and those involved in export oriented activities. This ensures International recognition and growth for both our organisation and our beneficiaries, i.e., the community as a whole. Thus by provision of high quality activities and services towards technical, educational, research and professional development, we will be able to serve our members, the professionals and finally the public in a much more meaningful manner. Conversion of principles enshrined in the constitution to reality We have been on several occasions been questioned by our members regarding our value preposition. In simple words, what can CSI offer in terms of meaningful engagements and programs for our members and community at large? Before we make proposition and offers for such programs, let us have a look at the key areas of development our community is in need of, and we can then formulate a game plan. 1. Eradication of Literacy: 34% Indian population is still illiterate (as per 2007 census). "Human dignity and self-esteem comes from being educated, skilled and well prepared for employment for employment. India cannot deliver on this goal unless we make the basic approach to universal education and skill development, a focussed effort, which is clear, unambiguous, and non-negotiable." - Dr. C.K. Prahalad. 2. Quality of Higher Education and Research: As per one assessment, in terms of quality of education, over 75% of engineering pass-outs do not have adequate capabilities to seek a suitable employment. Motivation to take up research assignments is very weak among students. India hold's the 54th position in terms of holding of patents. 3. Cost over-run and underutilization of IT and skill development opportunities for IT professionals: There is a definite gap to be filled by providing skill up gradation programs by utilizing support of various training institutes where they commoditize education. Also there is an opportunity to enhance value of IT by providing short term workshops and certification programs to corporate members and IT professionals. The limiting factors in such activities are high price, quality faculty, and vivid aspects of the subjects. There is also a definite shortage of well trained engineers in areas like open-source technology and project management. It is becoming impeding in using these ingredients of IT skills for cost effective deployment of IT. Working with ICT can provide advantages in providing solutions and deriving innovations. There is a need to create a framework of services offered by CSI, through which, the above gaps and opportunities can be addressed. This would require a suitable study to come out with some new schemes and also we need to develop sustainable models. The study would also need to present solutions for utilizing CSI's limited resources and infrastructure in a cost-effective and goal-oriented approach and how to grow CSI with the help of these engagements and activities. Finally CSI senior members would be the think-tanks and provide consultancy services through various organisations, operative entities like SMEs, NGOs, government bodies and institutes to develop objective programs and up gradation in educational courses, schemes and incentives. We need to collectively introspect and take into consideration CSI's expected role as per enunciated objectives. We require feasible and profitable collaboration with the industry and other organisations to design expedited programs. Our current announcements of National Seminars, various Workshops on Corporate subjects, signing of MOU with CDAC and PMI recently, are few baby steps. However, I strongly feel there is a much bigger space available for CSI. With industry and government participation, we can target to build a category of schemes and courses, partially through virtual or web-based technologies. Perhaps, there is a need to examine a possibility of exploring creation of an institute of ICT standards and certifications to meet the above objectives. Let us collaborate, debate and progress. Do write to me at vp@csi-india.org Warm Regards, M. D. Agrawal Vice President, CSI