Autodesk, one of the world's leading design software and digital solutions providers, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M), to establish a 'Centre of Excellence (COE) for Innovative Design and Research'.

Under the MoU, Autodesk will invest Rs 1 crore to set up a Design COE and establish a 'Design Finishing School' at IIT-M for engineering students from across the country.

Autodesk will provide computing infrastructure, leading 3D design software including Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Alias Studio industrial design tools, and assist IIT-M in developing design courseware and potentially new elective inter-disciplinary courses in the areas of product design.

Speaking on the initiative, Rajiv Nair, Regional Director - India and SAARC region, Autodesk, said, "India needs a robust design ecosystem for developing a skilled community to capitalize on emerging industry opportunities. Autodesk's recent initiative is aimed at familiarizing and educating India's student community with the latest 3D model-based designing technologies."

It is learnt that the students will also receive access to the global Autodesk Student Engineering and Design Community portal to download free software. The community allows students and faculty to stay current with the latest 3D design technologies and industry best practices, engage with other students around the world on design projects, and even search for career opportunities.

Talking about this collaboration, Paul Mailhot, Senior Director - Worldwide Education, Autodesk, said, "Autodesk's partnership with IIT-M is a significant step to drive deeper design literacy not only among students at this institution, but also other engineering colleges; as well as for sharpening the skills of engineers currently employed in the industry."

In addition, Autodesk will also conduct a design contest for IIT-M students to encourage the spirit of innovation.

And as a part of the agreement, duo will undertake joint research projects and conduct outreach programs for the small to medium enterprise (SME) market to improve the design and engineering skills of professionals. IIT-M will also conduct a finishing school that shall offer courses on product design and development to engineering students.