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The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) is making remarkable strides in transforming the banking and financial services sector and supporting entrepreneurial ventures through its cutting-edge initiatives. By harnessing advanced technologies and strategic partnerships, IITK is addressing significant challenges and creating opportunities for both aspiring professionals and innovative startups.
One of IIT Kanpur’s standout initiatives is the launch of “SATHEE IBPS,” an innovative programme designed to help candidates prepare for banking exams conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS). This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Education, aims to democratise access to high-quality educational resources, particularly for students from financially weaker backgrounds and remote areas. SATHEE IBPS provides comprehensive study materials and resources for the IBPS Clerk exam, with plans to expand to other IBPS exams in the near future.
Professor Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, emphasised the significance of SATHEE IBPS in promoting educational equity. “The launch of SATHEE IBPS reaffirms our commitment to democratising elite education and exemplifies our proactive use of technology to empower students nationwide,” he stated.
The programme’s AI-driven tutoring system offers a structured learning experience that adapts to the unique needs of each student, ensuring personalised support throughout their preparation journey. This approach aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020, which aims to enhance educational accessibility and quality across diverse demographics.
Govind Jaiswal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Education, highlighted the platform’s inclusive design. “The SATHEE IBPS platform is designed to bridge the digital divide, creating an educational environment for aspirants preparing for IBPS and helping them excel in their ambitions, regardless of their geographic or economic limitations,” he remarked.
By providing equal access to high-quality learning materials, SATHEE IBPS is setting a new standard for educational support in India and ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed.
In addition to its educational initiatives, IIT Kanpur is also advancing the startup ecosystem through a new collaboration with Canara Bank. The Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) at IITK has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the bank to support entrepreneurs with comprehensive resources, including funding, promotion, and knowledge sharing. This partnership aims to provide a robust platform for innovation and entrepreneurship, fostering a dynamic environment for startups to thrive.
The MoU was signed by Professor Ankush Sharma, Professor-in-Charge of SIIC, IIT Kanpur, and Sanjay Kumar, Deputy General Manager at Canara Bank. Professor Sharma expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. He was confident that this initiative would help bridge the gap between academic research and practical business applications, providing crucial support to emerging ventures.
“This partnership brings together the strengths of academia and industry, creating a powerful synergy to support startups,” he said.
Through joint seminars, conferences, and workshops, startups will benefit from valuable industry insights and networking opportunities, as well as mentorship from experienced professionals. Startups involved in the programme will also gain access to Canara Bank’s extensive network of contacts and resources, providing essential support to navigate challenges and achieve long-term success. The MoU marks a significant milestone in the shared commitment of both institutions to nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystem and driving innovation.
These initiatives by IIT Kanpur exemplify how strategic partnerships and advanced technology can address critical needs in the BFSI sector and beyond. By supporting both educational advancements and entrepreneurial growth, IITK is contributing to the development of a more inclusive and innovative landscape, paving the way for future successes in India’s dynamic economic environment. Through these efforts, IIT Kanpur is setting new benchmarks in leveraging technology to create impactful solutions and opportunities.