Kochi: The Mahatma Gandhi University has set a record in the state by hosting 101 student startups in two years at its Business Innovation and Incubation Centre (BIIC). MGU is the first university to do so in the state.
The BIIC started in the year 2016 is also helping the young innovators to apply for patent and so far 14 patent applications have been filed by the bright students. An official of BIIC said that the centre has been able to give platform for students to implement fresh ideas in nano technology, biotechnology, information technology and green technology apart from organic farming, waste disposal and water conservation under the Haritha Keralam Mission of the State Government. He said that the aid for launching start-ups is given after inviting proposals at the state-level.
"Guidance and supervision of experts from the fields of science and technology, business management, financial planning and marketing are provided for the implementation of new ideas. The experts include teachers from the varsity and industrial experts who provide technical help. Most modern equipment and laboratory for the development of the products and help for applying for trade mark, licence and patent and transfer of technology are provided to the start-up ventures at the facility," the official added.
Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) chairman Christy Fernandez distributed the grant for 40 student innovators on Friday. He asked the universities to bring in changes needed for producing young entrepreneurs instead of employment seekers. MGU Vice-Chancellor Prof Sabu Thomas also attended the function.
