HITS Commence 3-Day National Workshop, Launches Research Laboratories For Aerospace Department

The Department of Aerospace Engineering at Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS) in association with the Centre of Excellence SIMCRASH (Structural Impact & Crash Simulation Centre) organises a three-day National Workshop on "Advances in Aerospace Structural Design (AASD2024)" from February 19th to 21st, 2024, at the HITS campus, Padur. Eminent scientists and technologists from organizations like DRDO, INFOSYS, NAL, IIT, and MIT participated in the workshop, discussing various aspects of aircraft, space vehicles, gas turbines, and UAV structural design.

Adding to the national workshop, two high-quality research labs - the NSTL-HITS Research Lab and Hail Ice & Projectile Impact Labs were launched by the Centre of Research Department of Aeronautical & Aerospace Engineering on February 19th, 2024 for the Department of Aerospace Engineering, HITS. These research labs within the Aerospace Department are established to conduct advanced research and testing related to aerospace materials, structural integrity, and impact resistance, contributing to the development of safer and more efficient aerospace technologies.

The event commenced in the presence of Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, Chancellor HITS, Mr. Ashok Verghese, Pro-Chancellor HITS, and Dr. S.N. Sridhara, Vice Chancellor, HITS who welcomed the attendees.

The National workshop and the research laboratories were inaugurated by the chief guest, Dr. Y. Sreenivas Rao, Distinguished Scientist, and Director General (Naval Systems & Materials), and the guest of honour, Dr. Abraham Varughese, Outstanding Scientist and Director, Naval Science and Technology. Under the theme of exploring the diverse dimensions of Aircraft, Space vehicles, Gas turbines, and UAVs, the workshop promises to be a platform for intensive deliberations, insights, and knowledge exchange among the brightest minds in the field.

During his speech, Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese shared his passion for the aviation industry, a legacy inherited from his late father, Dr. KCG Verghese, the Founder of Hindustan Group of Institutions, who was a passionate aviator. He fondly remembered his father's vision to train and nurture skilled aviation professionals for the nation and also highlighted the ongoing substantial investments aimed at developing infrastructure and facilities at HITS. The chancellor expressed his commitment to maintaining a leading position in providing students with an education experience aligned with global standards.

The Pro-Chancellor highlighted the importance of partnering with international aviation institutions and industries, which exposes students to global technologies and expertise. He also expressed his interest in encouraging students to innovate through the development of aviation-related projects, believing they can make a significant impact in the field.

The chief guest Dr. Y. Sreenivas Rao expressed his honor to be among the future aerospace scientists and engineers, acknowledging their potential to drive change in the aviation field. He also appreciated the investments made at HITS in providing advanced infrastructure to the students at all fronts, ensuring global excellence. The guest of honour Dr. Abraham Varughese encouraged students to utilize these facilities and continue progressing toward their aviation goals. He also highlighted that this workshop is a significant step towards achieving excellence in aerospace. It provides valuable insights to aspiring aerospace students who are capable of shaping the future of aerospace structural design and the aviation sector.

About HITS
Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS), located in Padur, Chennai, is a prominent self-financed Deemed-to-be-University known for its high-quality higher education. Established in 1985 by the late Dr. K.C.G. Verghese, the institute has consistently excelled in academics, sports, and research. Over the years, HITS has experienced significant growth, earning top national and international rankings. Offering over 100 programs at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, HITS is dedicated to providing a world-class education.

Accredited with an NAAC A+ rating, HITS has 9 engineering programs accredited by IET, UK, and 10 programs accredited by NBA. In the QS Asia rankings 2023, it ranks 33rd among private universities in India. Additionally, according to the Times of India rankings 2023, HITS is the top-ranked private university and 7th among the top ten engineering colleges for Aerospace in India. Impressively, HITS boasts an 83% placement rate through campus selections, securing the 4th position among universities in Chennai for placements. Committed to holistic education, HITS offers state-of-the-art infrastructure including 16 research centers, aircraft hangars, a well-equipped library, laboratories, a canteen, hostel accommodations, and an incubation center. Moreover, the campus features a 15-acre playground to meet students' sports and recreational needs.