The rise of outcome-based education and the booming start-up ecosystem have brought significant changes to India's education sector. Advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and others are reshaping how institutions approach teaching and learning. Many prestigious institutions are now integrating these tools to enhance learning and foster creativity and innovation among students.

One of the standout innovations is the AI-powered classroom, which acts as a repository of knowledge that students can access with ease. These smart classrooms enable students to interact with AI, asking questions and gaining deeper insights into their studies. Yet, education remains incomplete if it solely focuses on textbook knowledge. It must also encompass practical skills and life skills that allow students to translate their learning into action.

At GM University, Karnataka, a strong emphasis is placed on holistic education. The university has built an educational framework and infrastructure that addresses all facets of student development. Alongside a state-of-the-art curriculum, students have access to ample sports arenas, cultural spaces, centers for innovation, a design hub, and a life skills development center. The institution also encourages entrepreneurship by fostering creative ideas and supporting start-ups among its students.

History and Evolution of GM University

Founded in 2002 by the Srishyla Education Trust, under the vision of Late Sri G. Mallikarjunappa, a former Member of Parliament, GM University began as GM Institute of Technology. Its mission was to provide quality education to students from rural and semi-urban areas of Karnataka. Today, it has grown into a full-fledged university with four major faculties: Engineering and Technology, Computing and IT, Basic and Applied Sciences, and Commerce and Management. The university offers 41 undergraduate programs, 16 postgraduate programs, and research opportunities leading to PhD degrees.

Dr. S.R. Shankapal, Vice Chancellor of GM University, highlights their adoption of an innovative approach to education. "We have advanced courses in fields like AI, ML, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Business Systems, IoT, and Information Science and Engineering. The university also uses a credit accumulation system for degree awards, ensuring flexibility in learning," he noted.

Comprehensive Career Development

GM University has established a Career Advice and Placement Centre that focuses on student placement, internships, study-abroad opportunities, dual degree programs, and postgraduate studies. The center has launched several creative initiatives to train and place students according to their capabilities and IQ levels. The university collaborates with institutions in the UK, Europe, and the US to provide international exposure to students, enabling them to broaden their horizons.

Inspiring Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship is a major focus at GM University, with the goal of encouraging 4-5% of graduates to pursue start-up ventures. From the beginning of their academic journey, students are motivated to think creatively and develop unique ideas throughout their undergraduate studies. The university employs industry experts who guide students in crafting products or solutions that add value to various industries.

In addition, GM University has established a bank of business ideas—an innovative initiative curated by a group of faculty members based on their expertise and research. This bank serves as a valuable resource for students, providing them with actionable ideas that they can experiment with and build upon. Dr. Shankapal emphasized the university's commitment to supporting student entrepreneurship: "Students have access to numerous business ideas and are encouraged to develop unique products and solutions. We provide financial assistance to students for product and business incubation. We have also created a design center and industry workshops to help students advance their start-up ideas."

Faculty Development for Continuous Improvement

The university not only focuses on student growth but also invests heavily in faculty development. Weekly faculty development workshops introduce teachers to the latest technologies and industry trends. This continuous professional development allows faculty members to update curricula and incorporate new topics that align with industry needs. As a result, students are better prepared to meet the challenges of the workforce.

GM University also encourages its faculty to engage in research and innovation. "Faculty members are inspired to experiment with new research, product, and solution ideas for their respective industries. The university provides seed grants to support these endeavors," said Dr. Shankapal.

Looking Ahead

Over the past 22 years, GM University has earned a solid reputation in Karnataka's education sector. Looking to the future, the university is committed to driving transformational change in the region through innovative teaching methods, skill development, research, and entrepreneurship. "In the coming years, we aim to be a force to reckon with in the higher education sector," Dr. Shankapal concluded, underscoring the university's vision for continued growth and impact.

By fostering independent thinking, holistic development, and entrepreneurship, GM University is preparing students not just to succeed academically but to thrive in a dynamic and competitive world.