The ISTE Sponsored Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on “Advancing Research Excellence through Funded Projects and Quality Publications” was successfully organized on 21st August 2026 at the MBA Seminar Hall, SRM Madurai College for Engineering and Technology (SRM MCET). The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members and provided an excellent platform for strengthening research knowledge, capabilities, and scholarly practices.
The inaugural ceremony commenced with the Tamil Thai Vazhthu, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the Kuthuvilakku by the dignitaries, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment Dr. R. Ashok Kumar, ISTE Faculty Advisor, delivered the Welcome Address, extending a warm welcome to the dignitaries, resource persons, faculty members, and participants and outlining the objectives and significance of the FDP.
The programme was honoured by the presence of Dr. R. Udayakumar, Dean – Research, SRM PR Group, as the distinguished guest. He was felicitated by the Principal, as a mark of appreciation and respect.
The Presidential Address was delivered by Dr. S. Durairaj, Principal, SRM MCET, who emphasized the vital role of continuous faculty development in strengthening academic standards, research capabilities, innovation, and institutional growth. He highlighted the institution’s commitment to creating a vibrant research ecosystem and encouraging faculty members to actively pursue funded research projects and quality publications.
This was followed by the Inaugural Address by Dr. R. Udayakumar, who shared valuable insights into contemporary trends in research, innovation, and project development. His address motivated the participants to pursue meaningful and impactful research while maintaining high standards of academic integrity and professional excellence.
The inaugural session concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. P. Krishna Kumar, HoD/Civil Engineering, who expressed sincere gratitude to the distinguished guest, Principal, faculty members, participants, ISTE, and the organizing team for their valuable contributions and support towards the successful conduct of the programme.
The FDP featured a series of insightful technical sessions delivered by distinguished academicians and research experts.
Dr. R. Udayakumar, Dean – Research, SRM PR Group, delivered a session on “Evaluation of Publication Ethics and Projects,” highlighting the fundamental principles of publication ethics, responsible research practices, and ethical considerations in research project development.
Dr. M. R. Thansekhar, Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, K.L.N. College of Engineering, presented “From Ideas to Publication: A Beginner’s Guide to Quality Research.” His session provided valuable guidance on transforming research ideas into meaningful scientific investigations and developing high-quality research publications through systematic research practices.
Prof. A. Srimurugan, Professor Emeritus & Head, Madurai Kamaraj University, conducted an engaging session on “Publish and Flourish with Permissible Agentic AI Collaboration.” The presentation offered valuable perspectives on the responsible and permissible use of Agentic Artificial Intelligence in research and academic publishing while emphasizing ethical AI-assisted scholarly communication.
The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to all participants. Overall, the FDP served as an excellent platform for promoting research excellence, quality publications, ethical research practices, funded projects, and professional development, thereby contributing significantly to strengthening the research culture at SRM MCET.
