The Department of Textile Technology and Fashion Technology at Kumaraguru College of Technology (KCT) organized a two-day Industry Conclave on March 3rd and 4th, 2024, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its Textile Technology Department. The event aimed to foster innovation, integrate advanced technologies, and prepare future-ready professionals by bringing together thought leaders, academicians, industry experts, and policymakers.
The conclave featured five technical sessions, two panel discussions, and five keynote addresses, with over 30 industry experts sharing their insights. Notably, four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with prominent organizations like the Indian Technical Textile Association (ITTA), The Textile Association of India (TAI), Tamil Nadu Coir Business Development Corporation (TANCOIR), and the Institute for Ecology, Technology and Innovation (OETI). These collaborations are expected to enhance competency building, industry-driven curriculum development, and research initiatives.
A major highlight was the launch of the Kumaraguru Centre for Research in Technical Textiles (KC.RTT), a state-of-the-art research hub focused on innovation, sustainability, and industry collaboration in technical textiles. Equipped with world-class infrastructure, including a ₹2.5 Crore grant-funded Technical Textiles Laboratory and a Sustainability Laboratory, KC.RTT aims to drive advancements in protective, automotive, sports, and home textiles.
Key Addresses:
- Dr. M. Ezhilarasi, Principal of KCT, emphasized the evolution and contributions of the Textile Technology Department, highlighting sustainable solutions and the potential of India’s textile industry.
- Shri Shankar Vanavarayar, President of Kumaraguru Institutions, discussed the need for adapting to the fast-changing textile sector and emphasized innovation, technology, and sustainability as the future of textiles.
- Dr. Sundararaman K.S., Chairman of SIMA and MD of Shiva Texyarn Limited, highlighted the transformative potential of technical textiles and the need for innovation and value creation. He emphasized the growing importance of technical textiles in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and healthcare.
- Shri Avinash Mishra, Chairman of ITTA, underscored the rapid growth of technical textiles in India and highlighted the significant role of government initiatives like the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM).
- Dr. K. Selvaraju, Secretary General of SIMA, stressed the need to revitalize textile education and strengthen industry-academia collaboration to bridge the skill gap.
The event attracted over 100 participants, including industry experts, students, and faculty from various colleges, making it a significant step forward in integrating technology and sustainability in textiles.