Microsoft may soon set-up an innovation centre at M S University, Gujarat. The proposal for Microsoft Innovation Center (MIC), first in Gujarat and among few in the country will be tabled before university’s syndicate. MICs are the state-of-art technology facilities for collaboration on innovative research, technology or software solutions involving a combination of government, academic and industry participants.
The innovation centre will primarily support innovation at the grass root level and undertake projects that have potential for local industry adoption, enhancing skills of students and in turn creating employment. An MIC can choose to work on specific projects that could be based on student ideas or industry problems.
Sources suggest that officials of Microsoft education initiative had approached MSU officials with the proposal. A group of trainers from Microsoft is also expected to come at MSU soon for conducting workshop for students and faculty.
"They want MSU to involve industries in and around Vadodara to support the center's activities," said a source, adding that once functional, the biggest advantage of this center will be that Microsoft will provide licenced copies of their software free of charge to all staff and students of the university.
As a first step before it signs an MoU, the university will have to go through a proof of concept stage for a period ranging from three to six months. During this stage, Microsoft would measure outcomes before it signs an MoU which is valid for a period of one year and can be renewed every year based on performance track record of the center.
Through MIC, Microsoft offers programmes like 'DreamSpark', faculty connection programme, imagine cup mentoring, Microsoft student partner, BizSpark programme and IT Academy. |
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