Mangaluru: Alumni of NITK Surathkal returned to campus in large numbers to celebrate the institute’s 67th Foundation Day on Aug. 8, with over 100 members of the 1981 batch attending along with their families.As part of the celebrations, the alumni formally handed over two electric buggies to the institute under CAMPUS 81 (Collaborative Alumni Mobility Partnership for University Sustainability), a mobility initiative launched by the 1981 batch in 2018 under the CAMP (Contribute to Alma Mater Projects) programme.The Rs 17 lakh project includes two electric buggies, a solar-powered charging station and a GPS-based campus tour and information system. It was designed and developed by Dr Pruthviraj U, associate professor and project coordinator of CAMPUS 81, and his team.The electric buggies will provide transport for senior citizens, visitors, alumni, students and others requiring assistance in moving around the campus. Powered by solar energy generated through the new charging facility, the vehicles are expected to support sustainable mobility within the institute. The GPS-based system will help visitors and newcomers navigate the campus more easily.The initiative aligns with NITK’s goal of developing a sustainable, net-zero campus.Among those present were NITK director Prof B Ravi, IIT Dharwad director Prof Venkapayya Desai, dean (alumni and corporate relations) Prof Prasanna Belur D, Dr Pruthviraj U and alumni representatives from various batches, including the 1981 batch.The project was implemented with support from the Centre for System Design (CSD) and SEARCH (System for Emergency Assistance, Response and Communication Hub)..
