The University Grants Commission (UGC) conferred autonomous status on St. Vincent Pallotti College of Engineering & Technology on 7 September 2021. The same was notified by RTM Nagpur University on 24 September. To mark the occasion the college organized a short function on 27 September. Gracing the occasion were Dr. Subhash Chaudhari, Vice Chancellor, RTM Nagpur University, Dr. M.B. Diagavane, Joint Director, Technical Education, Regional Office, Nagpur, Dr. P.B. Maheshwary, Dean of Science & Technology, RTM Nagpur University. Also present were a close circle of friends and well-wishers of the college both from Industry and Academia. Joining them online were students, parents and alumni, friends and well-wishers.

The highlight of the function was the formal handing over of the document of notification of the autonomous status by the Chief Guest, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor to the College authorities. Speaking on the occasion Dr. Subhash Chaudhari congratulated the college management on joining the select club of autonomous colleges in Nagpur. He observed that Pallotti College has the potential and the resolve to move from “kulguru” based system to “gurukul” based culture.

Dr. M.B. Daigavane highlighted the need for introducing “content beyond syllabus” to bridge the gap between academia and industry. He also insisted that engineers must become creative thinkers and problem solvers. Dr. P.B. Maheswary encouraged teachers to adopt outcome based teaching plan and ensure that the specific outcome of each class is attained. He recommended the use of artificial intelligence by professors to develop dynamic question banks to cater to student specific evaluation. He also insisted on professors engaging in applied research which can be patented and commercialized.

The Principal, Dr. Surendra Gole spoke of “Industry 4.0”, that is, the present day industrial revolution making use of the latest developments in IT and computer related branches and the urgent need for a corresponding “Education 4.0” to match the requirements of industries. Dr. Gole concluded by saying that autonomous status provides an excellent opportunity for Pallotti college to rise up to the expectations of industries.

Director Fr. Dr. Paul was vocal in his appreciation of the contributions of the faculty members of the college and alumni. He said that all the achievements of the college are to be attributed to the cumulative efforts of a highly committed and proactive group of faculty members and a highly accomplished and fiercely loyal group of alumni. Fr. Joy, the Chairman appreciated the management and staff of the college for the achievement and promised all possible support in the meticulous implementation of autonomy.

Going down the memory lane, Prof. Gowardhan, the Vice Principal, in his vote of thanks, put on record the institution’s heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to all the past management members, university authorities, DTE and friends and well-wishers of the institution.