MIT Art, Design and Technology University - [MITADT]

Pune: MIT Art, Design and Technology University (MIT ADT University) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bentley Systems and inaugurated a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Infrastructure Innovation, marking a significant step toward strengthening digital infrastructure education and industry-integrated learning. The initiative, led by the Department of Civil Engineering under the School of Engineering and Sciences, aims to bridge academia and industry by equipping students with advanced digital engineering competencies aligned with global infrastructure practices.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief Guest Mr. Kamalakannan Thiruvadi, Regional Executive – South Asia, Bentley Systems. Guests of Honour included Mr. Harsh Nagpal, Director – Education (Asia); Ms. Monica Jedhe, Senior Program Manager – Education; and Mr. Parmarth Saini, Education Success Consultant, Bentley Systems. The programme began with traditional ceremonies including the World Peace Prayer, Saraswati Poojan, and lamp-lighting.

Welcoming the dignitaries, Dr. Ramchandra Pujeri, Pro-Vice Chancellor, MIT ADT University, highlighted the increasing importance of academia–industry collaboration in transforming Civil Engineering education and fostering innovation-led infrastructure development. A key highlight of the event was the inauguration of the Centre of Excellence for Infrastructure Innovation along with the Bentley Student Club. The centre will facilitate advanced learning and research in digital infrastructure, smart construction technologies, and sustainable engineering practices. Students and researchers will gain access to more than 65 industry-leading software solutions, global certification opportunities, and specialized technical training platforms.

Addressing the gathering, representatives from Bentley Systems emphasized the growing role of collaborative partnerships in preparing future-ready engineers capable of driving digital transformation in infrastructure development. In his keynote address, Chief Guest Mr. Kamalakannan Thiruvadi underscored the global shift toward intelligent, software-driven infrastructure systems essential for sustainable development and resilient urban growth. The MoU establishes a framework for collaborative research, technical workshops, certification programmes, training initiatives, and knowledge exchange, enabling students to gain exposure to globally adopted digital infrastructure technologies. Delivering the Presidential Address, Dr. Sunita Karad, Executive Director, MIT ADT University, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to innovation-driven education and strong industry engagement for holistic student development.

Dr. Mangesh Karad, Executive President and Pro-Chancellor, MIT ADT University, described the initiative as a transformative milestone, stating that integrating world-class digital infrastructure tools into the academic ecosystem will empower students to emerge as global innovators and leaders in sustainable engineering. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Yuvaraj Bhirud, Professor and Head, Department of Civil Engineering, followed by the National Anthem and a group photograph with dignitaries. Organized under the guidance of Dr. Mangesh Karad, Executive President and Pro-Chancellor, and Dr. Rajesh S., Vice-Chancellor, the event marks another milestone in strengthening academic–industry collaboration in civil engineering and infrastructure innovation.