Ashok Leyland and Bosch, the largest auto components supplier in the world, have joined hands with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) to set up the Ashok Leyland and Bosch Centre of Excellence in Engineering Design at the IITM campus. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed to this effect by Mr. R. Seshasayee, Managing Director, Ashok Leyland, Dr. Albert Hieronimus, Managing Director, Motor Industries Company Limited, (MICO), flagship of the Bosch Group in India and Prof. M.S. Ananth, Director, IIT Madras.

The Ashok Leyland and Bosch Centre of Excellence in Engineering Design will house the Department of Engineering Design, formed recently by IITM. The Department offers a Dual Degree Programme in Engineering Design ---- B. Tech in Engineering Design and M. Tech with specialization in Automotive Engineering. With a strong thrust on the modern practices of design, this programme is the first of its kind in the country. The Department will also offer M.S. and Ph.D. from January 2007.

"There is a dire need for design engineers with a sound knowledge of MEMS, controls and analytical & numerical techniques, with practical orientation different from what is imparted in traditional disciplines such as mechanical and electrical engineering. " said Prof. M.S. Ananth. " I am happy that the industry, especially Ashok Leyland and Bosch Group, has been supportive of the initiative  "

Recognising the invaluable contribution that this course will make to his industry, Mr Seshasayee said, "For India to realise its definite promise to become a global manufacturing base, it is vital that we strengthen our most significant core competitive advantage, namely our skilled manpower.   The same holds good for the automotive industry wherein skilled technical manpower is pivotal to the predicted growth.   Therefore, I welcome the introduction of this dual course with a sharp focus on automotive engineering design.   The exposure to real world problems in the industry will be hugely beneficial in the transition of students from academics to their eventual career avenues.

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