Editor
The director of the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, V. Kamakoti, has voiced his deep concern over the increasing number of engineering graduates pursuing careers unrelated to their field, calling it a "waste of resources."
During an interview, Kamakoti, a renowned cyber security expert and the mastermind behind India's indigenous computer microprocessor 'Shakti,' expressed his worries about the availability of civil and aerospace engineers in light of the growing number of infrastructure and aviation projects in India. He shared encounters with IIT Madras alumni who had chosen careers in fields like marketing or high-frequency trading, unrelated to their engineering background.
Exploring the reasons behind this trend, Kamakoti highlighted two significant factors: pay and work environment. He pointed out that higher salaries and the convenience of working from home, even while managing household chores, have made non-core opportunities more attractive. Remote work allows individuals to enjoy the comforts of home, savor home-cooked meals, and even indulge in leisure activities like watching Netflix while completing tasks. In contrast, pursuing a career as a civil engineer often involves on-site work under challenging conditions, such as being exposed to the sun, physical discomfort, and comparatively lower compensation.
Kamakoti further mentioned that the effects of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic continue to linger on the IIT Madras campus. Remote learning has significantly affected students' attention spans, and the lack of socialization with peers has had an adverse impact on their mental well-being.
The director also shared that an OTT series focused on the Kota coaching factory served as an eye-opener for him, revealing the immense stress associated with JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) preparation over the years.
Efforts to address these concerns and promote core engineering careers are crucial, particularly considering the demand for specialized engineers in various sectors. Kamakoti's apprehension stems from the potential shortage of skilled professionals needed for critical infrastructure and aviation projects in India.
It remains to be seen how educational institutions, policymakers, and the industry collaborate to ensure that engineering graduates are motivated to pursue careers in their respective fields, thereby maximizing the effective utilization of resources and meeting the country's growing demand for core engineering expertise.