The National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK) at Surathkal in Dakshina Kannada district has established a professorship in the Department of Mining Engineering, with a grant of ₹6 crore from Hutti Gold Mines Ltd.

A press release said the collaboration with Hutti Gold Mines provides NITK with the opportunity to integrate industry expertise into the curriculum and provide students with direct insight into real-world challenges.

The chair is expected to advance research and development at NITK, fostering innovative solutions to industry-specific problems and promoting knowledge exchange. The partnership will also strengthen NITK’s ties with industry, leading to joint research initiatives and co-development of new technologies, the statement said.

Established in 1984, the department offers a B Tech program in mining engineering and has almost doubled the number of seats to 60 today.

The department also offers master’s, doctoral and continuing education programs. It has well-equipped laboratories, including a realistic model of an underground mine. Most faculty members provide high-value consulting services to government and private agencies, the release said.