Hyderabad: Dr. Danda Raji Reddy, the Vice Chancellor of Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University (SKLTHU), emphasized the importance of integrating IT, ICT, Remote Sensing, and GIS into horticulture education. The university is actively seeking partnerships for research and student internships, particularly in Open Source Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
A workshop on open-source software for horticulture was held for SKLTHU students in Rajendranagar on Thursday. Following this, a Faculty Development Program focused on advanced geospatial software applications for horticulture. Dr. Mohamed Kasim Khan, National Coordinator for FOSSEE GIS at IIT Bombay, delivered the keynote speech. He shared insights on internship structures, faculty training, and industry-academia collaboration, highlighting the role of open-source software in research and resource mapping. The FOSSEE GIS project at IIT Bombay offers remote internships for students and specialized sessions for faculty.
Dr. Veeranjaneyulu, a university consultant, discussed the role of ICT in education, suggesting that combining horticulture with software-based ICTs can enhance career prospects. Dr. P. Prasanth, Associate Dean of the College of Horticulture in Rajendranagar, assured that students have access to advanced technology facilities.
During the event, Dr. Khan announced that SKLTHU has been recognized under the ‘Aspiring University’ category in the National Geospatial Awards, scheduled for 17 July 2025. The university will also join as a knowledge partner in the upcoming National Geospatial Horticulture Hackathon.
Dr. Pidigam Saidaiah, Associate Dean of the College of Horticulture in Mojerla, along with Dr. M. Srinivas, Ashwin, professors, and students, participated in the workshop.
