Garhwal Post Bureau
Pantnagar, 26 Mar: A Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Construction Materials was formally inaugurated in the Department of Civil Engineering under the College of Technology at GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Manmohan Singh Chauhan. After that the Vice-Chancellor visited the demonstration of various construction materials displayed by the Ultra Tech Cement Company.
The centre has been established in strategic collaboration with India’s leading cement manufacturer, UltraTech Cement.
This Centre of Excellence marks a significant initiative toward bridging the gap between academic research and industrial requirements. Its primary objective is to promote sustainable and eco-friendly technologies in the construction sector, enhance energy efficiency, and develop innovative solutions to minimise carbon emissions.
In his address, Prof Chauhan stated that the centre is not merely a laboratory but an inspiring platform for future civil engineers and researchers. He emphasised that collaboration with a reputed industrial partner like UltraTech Cement will make university research more practical, impactful, and socially relevant. This partnership will not only strengthen environmental conservation efforts but also provide students with industry-oriented knowledge and excellent career opportunities.
The key objectives of the Centre of Excellence include promoting research and innovation in green construction materials. This involves developing low-carbon construction materials, encouraging the use of alternative fuels and raw materials, and focusing on the effective utilisation of industrial waste such as fly ash and slag for the production and testing of blended cement.
The centre will also place special emphasis on skill development. Regular training programmes, internships, workshops, and expert lectures will be organised for engineers, contractors, faculty members, and students to provide practical exposure to modern construction techniques and sustainable practices.
This initiative will play a crucial role in strengthening industry-academia collaboration. It aims to create an environment where students, researchers, and faculty can work closely with industry experts on real-world projects and challenges, thereby enhancing research quality and fostering innovation.
The Dean, College of Technology, Dr SS Gupta, said that such centres significantly enhance students’ technical skills and employability. He expressed confidence that the centre will contribute meaningfully to ensuring sustainability and quality in national infrastructure development.
Exchange of documents pertaining to MoU signed between GBPUAT Pantnagar and Ultratech Cement Company was also done in the presence of the Vice-chancellor.
On behalf of UltraTech Cement, Zonal Head (Technical) Vipin Chaudhary stated that the company is establishing such Centres of Excellence across leading academic institutions in the country to strengthen industry-academia linkages. He also announced better campus placement opportunities for university students.
The event was attended by faculty members of the Civil Engineering Department, including Dr Sunil Kumar, Dr Sanjeev Suman, Dr Sandeep Gupta, Dr Vanita Devi, Dr SK Sharma, and Dr VK Verma. From UltraTech Cement, Shiraz Zaidi (Regional Head, Technical Customer Solutions) was also present. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks.
Deans, directors, faculty members, and students from various colleges were present on the occasion.
