Lokesh Launches Siu, Highlights Industry-Linked Higher Education Model
SIU to offer work-study learning, paid internships and industry-linked curricula
Tirupati: Education Minister Nara Lokesh on Thursday launched SriCity International University (SIU) in Sri City and said AP’s industry-linked higher education model would equip students with practical skills, work experience and an entrepreneurial mindset.
Addressing the inaugural programme, Lokesh said the state would strengthen links between higher education institutions and industry to improve graduate employability. Students required an education system that connected classroom learning with employment opportunities.
Highlighting SIU's Work-Study Dual Model, the minister said students would spend about one-third of their academic programme in classrooms and the remaining period as interns with industry partners, enabling them to graduate with practical skills and industry exposure.
He said Sri City's ecosystem of more than 200 companies from over 30 countries offered students opportunities to combine learning with workplace experience.
SIU governing board chairman Srini Raju said the university was established with a focus on employability. He said students enrolled in four-year degree programmes would graduate with more than two years of work experience through paid internships.
Students would receive a minimum monthly stipend of Rs 10,000 during internships from the first year, with industry partners expected to enhance the stipend as students gained experience. Besides technical education, the university would also focus on life skills and entrepreneurship.
The university's curriculum has been designed in consultation with industry partners and will be updated annually to meet the requirements of an AI-driven industrial landscape.
SIU has also established an incubation centre, Station-S, to promote innovation and entrepreneurship, with around 10 start-ups already operating with support from Gnan Circle Ventures.
This academic year, the university is offering B.Tech programmes in Computer Science and Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing, and BBA programmes in Finance and Accounts, and Digital Media and Communications. Admissions are open.
