Autodesk (NASDAQ: ADSK) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Anna University, Chennai, to enhance student employability in the design and manufacturing sectors. The agreement aims to integrate Autodesk’s advanced digital tools into the academic framework, promoting applied learning in areas such as digital manufacturing and generative design.

The MoU was signed at the university’s Guindy campus by Conway Kang Wei Goh, Director APAC, Autodesk Education Experiences, and Dr J Prakash, Registrar, Anna University, in the presence of senior Tamil Nadu government officials and university leadership.

As part of this strategic collaboration, a Design and Innovation Centre will be established at the College of Engineering, Guindy (CEG), offering students access to Autodesk’s cloud-based design and make platforms. These tools will support hands-on learning in CNC machining, Building Information Modelling (BIM), and other advanced manufacturing technologies.

The partnership also includes faculty development initiatives, design competitions, and global exposure for Anna University officials at events like Autodesk University. Faculty will be trained as master trainers to deliver digital manufacturing modules across affiliated colleges.

Conway Kang Wei Goh remarked, “This collaboration is a call to action to equip India’s future engineers with industry-ready skills. Integrating Autodesk’s cutting-edge technology into the curriculum empowers students to meet evolving industry demands and contribute to India’s digital transformation.”

Dr J Prakash, Registrar, stated, “This partnership is a key step in modernising technical education at Anna University. By introducing global tools and practices into our learning environment, we aim to boost innovation and employability for our graduates.”

The MoU outlines a roadmap to embed Autodesk’s digital platforms in technical education, blending research-oriented instruction with practical training. It reflects Autodesk’s broader commitment to advancing industry-relevant education in India’s higher education landscape.