Cloud Computing and Mobile Technology in Indian Universities

Six universities in the northeast will adopt cloud and mobile phone technology in their curriculum in graduate, post graduate and diploma levels, becoming the only educational institutions in the country to offer such courses. The technology, part of Microsoft's Azure for Cloud computing, will be included in the July and August curriculum of the universities, and is intended to give an edge to students from the region looking to make a career in this burgeoning field.

The universities that have updated their curriculum with respect to the latest technology available in cloud computing and mobile technology are Rajiv Gandhi University, Manipur University, Tripura University, Mizoram University, Tezpur University and North East Hill University (NEHU).

Cloud technology is a standardized IT capability in the lines of software application platform and infrastructure delivered through the internet via pay-per-use or self-service mode. Cloud technology is also a marketing term referring to storage, computation and connection to multiple servers. There are three scenarios in which cloud technology is applicable and it focuses on public cloud, private cloud and cloud productivity.

"Cloud technology was developed only in 2010 and it is the current technological marvel through which users can make access their applications in a very conducive atmosphere. Microsoft is very serious about the educational scenario in the country. The reason that we have chosen the Northeast is because, compared to other parts of the country, the wave and the effects of economic liberalisation have been slow here. At the same time, the scenario is changing and to remove these deficiencies we have decided that this region should be given a fair chance of technological education. It is part of an initiative called Microsoft Faculty Connection, where we provide free training to faculties in terms of curriculum with commitments to educational institutions," said Venkatesh Sarvasiddhi, DPE, academic developer evangelist, Microsoft. "We are helping the institutions build resources, train and enhance the employability skills of students," he added. Imocha Singh, head of the computer science department at Manipur University, said: "This will help the students, especially those in the IT field, as they will equipped to handle this new technology. The course will give them an edge over others and students from the northeast. IT is a great opportunity for employees and one can address technological requirements through such updating of the curriculum. The students are definitely excited and full of enthusiasm."

Part of the curriculum will also include technology with respect to mobile phones and smart phones specifically focusing on Windows Phone, which has been designed to deliver a mobile experience in getting people together. "We will be using this as a platform in imparting the required education and for this purpose we will have a Faculty Connect Symposium in Manipur to train faculties. added Sarvasiddhi.