Human rights and environmental studies should be integrated into the core curriculum of engineering and science education to prepare students to address emerging social and environmental challenges, said Prof. Kanhaiya Tripathi, Special Monitor, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Government of India.

Prof. Tripathi made the remarks during his visit to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhilai, where he interacted with the institute's leadership, faculty members, staff and students. He also visited Shivnath Hostel and interacted with newly admitted students.

Emphasising the need to equip future engineers and scientists with a broader understanding of society, Prof. Tripathi called for greater focus on contemporary social challenges, gender equality, human rights and the overall well-being of students. He said such an approach would contribute to building a progressive and inclusive society and advance the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Prof. Rajiv Prakash, Director, IIT Bhilai, along with the institute's Deans, welcomed Prof. Tripathi and briefed him on various initiatives undertaken by the institute. Appreciating IIT Bhilai's efforts towards tribal development and student welfare, Prof. Tripathi encouraged the institute to document and disseminate its best practices, particularly in the areas of gender equality and protection of human rights.

During the interaction, Prof. Tripathi proposed strengthening institutional linkages through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) among IIT Bhilai, the National Human Rights Commission and other academic institutions. He also suggested renaming the institute's Happiness Club as the Human Rights and Happiness Club to promote greater awareness of human rights and well-being among students.

Among other proposals, he suggested developing an Artificial Intelligence-based application focused on safeguarding and promoting human rights in Chhattisgarh. He also proposed organising a national-level Innovation Fair, bringing together students from Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and National Institutes of Technology (NITs), to showcase innovative technologies and solutions guided by the principles of human rights and gender equity.

Reviewing the institute's ongoing initiatives, Prof. Tripathi expressed satisfaction with its progress under the leadership of Prof. Rajiv Prakash. In response to the suggestions, IIT Bhilai expressed keen interest in introducing a dedicated course on Human Rights and the Environment with the guidance and support of the National Human Rights Commission.

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RDJ/PJ

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