In this time of relentless change, new age engineering colleges are bringing about a refreshing transformation in the learning landscape. Embracing innovative teaching methodologies, interdisciplinary approaches, and cutting-edge technologies, these institutions are reshaping the way engineering is taught and preparing students for the challenges of the future. Among these forward-thinking establishments, Ramco Institute of Technology emerges as a standout institution. With its commitment to fostering holistic development, industry-oriented curriculum, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a nurturing learning environment, Ramco Institute of Technology stands at the forefront of this educational revolution, equipping aspiring engineers with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to thrive in the dynamic world of engineering.
A History in the Making
In 1938, amidst the absence of Industrial Revolution influences in South India, Shri P.A.C. Ramaswamy Raja defied limited resources to establish the first Spinning Mill in Rajapalayam, laying the foundation for the Ramco Group. His unwavering commitment to technology and quality became an inspiration for future entrepreneurs, shaping the collective vision of the group. Under the leadership of Founder Chairman Shri P.R. Ramasubrahmaneya Rajha and the present Chairman Shri. P.R. Venketrama Raja, the Ramco Group has grown into a USD 1 billion conglomerate encompassing diverse industries such as cotton and synthetic yarn, cement, building products, software solutions, wind-energy, and education. With the full support of the Ramco Group, Ramco Institute of Technology (RIT) is dedicated to nurturing quality engineers to meet future demands.
A Hotspot of Tomorrow-Ready Engineering Education
Ramco Institute of Technology offers a range of B.E. programs in Civil, Computer Science and Engineering (CSE), Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE), Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), and Mechanical Engineering. Additionally, the institute provides B.Tech. programs in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science (AI & DS), Information Technology (IT), and Computer Science and Business Systems (CSBS). Notably, the CSE, EEE, ECE, and Mech. branches hold accreditation from the National Board of Accreditation (NBA). The admission process adheres to the statutory requirements of the affiliating body. The college fills 35% of its seats through the Management Quota, based on merit determined by a consortium. The remaining 65% of seats are filled via the Tamil Nadu Engineering Admissions (TNEA) Counseling. “Admission policies are regularly reviewed and updated to align with evolving needs and standards”, shared – Dr. L. Ganesan, the Principal of the college.
Furthermore, with a clear aim of fostering a research-oriented atmosphere on its campus, all the endeavors carried out at RIT are meant to motivate students to think out of the box and stand out when compared to their peers from other colleges. In this very pursuit, generous incentives are provided for publications and patents, with the institute covering the registration charges for patents. Also, faculty members receive financial support for conference and seminar attendance, including registration fees and travel assistance. On-duty leave is granted for participating in Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) and completing Ph.D. requirements.
The Chemistry, Physics, CSE, and Mechanical departments are recognized as research centers, while the AI & DS and ECE departments are in the process of obtaining similar recognition. Research facilities are accessible 24/7 to facilitate faculty and student research opportunities. Whereas, the laboratories are continuously equipped with research instruments to enhance capabilities. RIT has made significant progress in research and development, with faculty members and students applying to both government and private organizations for grants. “Notable funding has been received from esteemed agencies such as DST (SSTP), DST-NIMAT, AICTE, Tamilnadu State Council for Science and Technology, RuTAG-IITMadras, The Institution of Engineers (India), and various other entities”, added – Dr. Ganesan. Additionally, RIT has secured financial grants totaling ₹44.2 lakhs from the Ministry of MSME under the Champions Scheme for developing four product ideas, including a Portable Rotary Fluidized Bed Heat Pump Dryer for Herbal Leaves, an LED Powered Endo Illuminator for Vitreous Surgery, a Multipurpose Wheelchair, and a Musa Holder.
Beyond the Four Walls of the Classrooms
Ramco Institute of Technology places significant emphasis on the holistic development of its students, nurturing their personalities through a combination of academic education and extracurricular involvement. The campus boasts nine active clubs, including the Eco Club, Elite English Learners Club, Tamil Mandram, Science Club, Yoga Club, Photographic Club, Fine Arts and Cultural Club, and Maths Experts Club. Additionally, the campus houses various sports activities, NSS, YRC, NCC, and a Center for Women’s Welfare.
As a recognized Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) Center, RIT has adopted five villages for extension activities, conducting periodic events for the benefit of students. Students are encouraged to participate in external events as well. The campus is vibrant with professional societies like IE(I) (CSE, Mech, ECE, EEE), ISTE, CSI, IETE, ISHRAE, SAE, ICI, IWS, IEEE, ACM, which invite industry and academic experts to conduct workshops and deliver guest lectures. Department-specific student associations, such as RIT Structa (Civil), RIT-Clustra (CSE), RIT ELECTRA (EEE), RIT Electronica (ECE), RIT-Mechanizo (Mech.), and NeotericAI (AI&DS), are also actively functioning, fostering discipline-specific engagement and growth.
Redefining Infrastructural Brilliance
Being home to an elaborate campus, RIT has sufficient amenities and facilities for smooth teaching-learning process, R & D Exposure, placement and recreational activities. The tech-institute has developed its laboratories in accordance with the requirements set by AICTE and the affiliating body. Each classroom is equipped with ICT tools to facilitate effective teaching and learning. The institute has also established Centers of Excellence to stay updated with the latest technologies and knowledge advancements. The campus houses a centrally air-conditioned library that offers a wide range of resources, including books, journals, magazines, newspapers, rare collections, and online access. The campus provides 24/7 Wi-Fi, internet connectivity, power backup, and water supply, ensuring a conducive learning environment. Notably, the following Centers of Excellence are currently operational on the campus: Yaskawa Robotics Laboratory, AI & IOS lab, TVS Harita Centre for Excellence, NI LabView Research lab, Tessolve Semiconductor Testing Lab, MSME Incubation Centre, RIT Harita Centre of Excellence, RIT Medsby Innovation Centre, Solar Energy Laboratory, and Building Information Modeling (A Futuristic Lab).
In addition to these learning facilities, the campus provides a hostel, playground, cricket net practice, basketball, volleyball, badminton, and Kabbadi courts for the recreational activities of students. An indoor gym and table tennis facility are also available. The campus features a multipurpose auditorium and air-conditioned seminar halls dedicated to both the college and individual departments. A general amenities center is being developed to cater to the day-to-day needs of students. Other amenities within the campus include a data center, powerhouse, RO systems, softening plants, sewage treatment plant, ATM, cafeteria, elevators, and e-vehicle services.
Down the Line
The Ramco Institute of Technology has outlined a strategic plan to drive infrastructural development, achieve autonomous status, introduce new courses in emerging technologies, enhance the teaching-learning process through CDIO concepts, and attain QS international ranking. The institute aims to hire adjunct professors from foreign universities, obtain research center recognition for all departments, enhance the quality of publications and patents, and establish an incubation center to foster project-based learning, research, consultancy, and startups. Plans are also underway for student and faculty exchange programs with foreign universities. In terms of placements, the institute is dedicated to securing higher CTC levels and placing students in top multinational corporations, while also encouraging students to pursue higher education domestically and internationally. The MSME Innovation Centre actively promotes a startup culture on campus. Human resource development is a priority, with a focus on improving the quality of manpower through training, incentives, and research opportunities. The institute is committed to the overall development of students, nurturing their expertise in their chosen fields while instilling a strong sense of social responsibility through various extension activities.
Dr. L Ganesan – Principal
Dr. L. Ganesan, the Principal of RIT, holds a Ph.D from IIT Kharagpur. With over 30 years of experience, he is an accomplished researcher and educator. Dr. Ganesan has published 100+ research articles in international journals and conferences, and has guided over 20 research scholars in obtaining their doctoral degrees. He is a Fellow member of the Institution of Engineers, Calcutta, and a Life member of the Indian Society for Technical Education, New Delhi. He has participated in TEQIP activities, visiting top-ranked technical universities in the UK, and recently collaborated at the CDIO-Asia Regional Conference in Singapore (October 2022).
