The AICTE-IDEA Lab scheme, introduced by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), is designed to establish Idea Development, Evaluation & Application (IDEA) Labs in AICTE-approved institutions. The goal is to foster STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education through hands-on learning, encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and product visualization among engineering students. The IDEA Lab aligns with the National Educational Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting critical thinking, design thinking, collaboration, and lifelong learning.
Purpose of IDEA Lab
- Hands-On Learning:
- Offers an all-in-one facility for converting ideas into prototypes.
- Encourages creative thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative work.
- Transforming Engineering Education:
- Exposes students to 21st-century skills.
- Provides faculty and students with resources to explore innovative projects.
- Institutional Collaboration:
- Supports partnerships with industry and participation in national/international events.
- Provides exposure to IDEA Labs across the country, fostering cross-institutional collaboration.
Proposal Requirements
Institutions applying for the IDEA Lab scheme must:
- Outline a clear vision for the Lab.
- Detail the implementation plan, resource mobilization, and faculty involvement.
- Align with national goals, industrial requirements, or societal development.
- Demonstrate commitment of resources and the ability to sustain the Lab long-term.
- Undergo a scrutiny process by a panel of experts before AICTE sanctions the project.
Implementation Guidelines
- Space & Facilities:
- A minimum of 5000 sq. ft. dedicated space.
- Ideally, the lab should remain open 24×7.
- Equipped with tools and resources to translate ideas into prototypes.
- Operational Requirements:
- Organize workshops, trainings, ideation sessions, boot camps, and competitions.
- Participate in national/international events to showcase student innovations.
- Provide support staff, ensure security, and maintain a safe working environment.
- Compliance:
- Follow AICTE guidelines and adhere to Government of India rules.
- Maintain ethical conduct as outlined in the Code of Conduct annexures.
Financial Assistance
- Total Project Cost: ₹ 1,10,00,000
- Non-Recurring Expenditures: ₹ 80,00,000 (equipment, tools, consumables).
- Recurring Expenditures: ₹ 30,00,000 (events, activities for two years).
- AICTE Contribution: Up to 50% (₹ 55,00,000).
- Institutional Contribution: Minimum 50%, with additional weightage for contributions from industry partners.
Training and Activities
IDEA Labs will regularly organize training sessions, workshops, and projects to foster creativity and practical learning:
Event & Duration | Target Audience | Frequency |
---|---|---|
Faculty Development Program (6 Days) | 20 Faculty Members | Twice a year |
Skilling Programs (6 Days) | 20-30 Students | Quarterly |
Bootcamps (12 Days) | 5-10 Faculty Members | Twice a year |
Ideation Workshops (3-5 Days) | 30-40 Students | Once every 3 months |
Industry Awareness Workshops (2 Days) | 5-10 Industry Participants | Once every 3 months |
Internships (2-6 Months) | 15-20 Students | As per curriculum |
Professional Skilling Programs (12 Days) | 5-10 ITI/Class 10/12 Students | Quarterly |
School Teachers Awareness Program (6 Days) | Teachers from nearby schools | Twice a year |
School Projects | 10-15 School Students | Annually |
Open Day for School Students | 25-30 Class XI-XII Students | Annually |
Technical Exhibitions | IDEA Labs Nationwide | Annually |
Newsletters | IDEA Labs Nationwide | Monthly/Bi-monthly |
Webpage Updates | All Stakeholders | Weekly/Bi-weekly |
Annual Conference/Symposium | All IDEA Labs | Annually |
Eligibility Criteria
- Institutional Requirements:
- AICTE-approved engineering colleges/university departments with at least 10 years of existence.
- At least one NBA-accredited course currently active.
- Institutions must provide 3000 sq. ft. of built-up and furnished space.
- Institutions must allocate support staff and resources for maintenance.
- Financial Contributions:
- Institutions must contribute at least 50% of the total project cost.
- Additional weightage will be given for industry contributions.
Application Process Online
- Registration Process:
- Visit the AICTE IDEA Lab Portal.
- Click ‘Log In’ > ‘Register’.
- Enter Institute Permanent ID and other required details.
- Set a password and complete registration.
- Verify the account through the email received.
- Post-Registration Process:
- Log in with your credentials at AICTE IDEA Lab Login.
- Fill in the required sections:
- Institute Details, HOI & Faculty Coordinator Details, Built-up Area Details, Proposal for the Project, etc.
- Enter Non-Recurring and Recurring Expenditure details.
- Upload necessary budget contribution documents.
- Review all entries under the ‘Preview & Submit’ tab and submit the application.
Note: Once submitted, editing is not permitted.
Documents Required
- Quotations for Equipment
- Industrial Contribution Commitment Letter
- Institute Contribution Commitment Letter
- Endorsement from the Head of the Institution
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the IDEA Lab Scheme?
The IDEA Lab is an AICTE initiative to promote hands-on STEM learning, creative thinking, and prototype development in engineering institutions. - Who can apply for the AICTE IDEA Lab?
AICTE-approved engineering colleges/university departments with at least 10 years of existence and NBA-accredited courses. - What infrastructure is required for the IDEA Lab?
A minimum of 5000 sq. ft. dedicated space with facilities for prototype development and 24×7 access. - What is the funding model?
AICTE provides up to 50% funding, and institutions must contribute the remaining 50% or more, with additional weightage for industry contributions. - Can multiple institutions collaborate on one IDEA Lab?
Yes, collaborations between institutions and industries are encouraged. - Can institutions charge users for IDEA Lab usage?
Institutions may set nominal fees for usage, subject to AICTE guidelines. - When will AICTE release funds?
Funds are released after proposal approval and adherence to specified guidelines.
Sources & References
- AICTE IDEA Lab Guidelines
- User Manual
- FAQs
- Official AICTE Website
- Contact InformationAICTE IDEA Lab Support
Official Website: https://idealnet.aicte-india.org/
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +91-11-2958-1234