Pune: Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) is planning to expand its academic offerings with a proposed ‘School of Undergraduate Studies’ to introduce specialised engineering and technology programmes, vice-chancellor Suresh Gosavi said at the senate meeting on Friday.The proposed school will focus on niche B.E. and B.Tech courses, with initial discussions underway with the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IISST) to launch programmes in space and defence technology. Gosavi said the aim is to create a national-level programme in emerging domains, equipping students with industry-relevant skills and exposure to advanced technologies.He said the school would function as a dedicated academic unit, enabling the university to quickly design and roll out programmes in new-age disciplines. “The focus is on building specialised academic ecosystems within the university,” he said.On the research front, SPPU will introduce a ‘Departmental Sustainable Research Grant’ scheme, in line with the state’s framework for internal ranking of departments. Based on performance, departments will receive grants ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 10 lakh to promote research, innovation and patents.To strengthen its global academic presence, the university is also planning an ‘International Visiting Faculty Scheme’. Under this, professors from leading Asian and global institutions will visit SPPU for short teaching and research assignments, while faculty members will get opportunities abroad.Additionally, SPPU is considering appointing experts from organisations such as the Defence Research and Development Organisation and the Indian Space Research Organisation as ‘Honorary Distinguished Professors’ to mentor faculty and support academic development.
