Chennai, March 27 (IANS) US-based Autodesk Inc, a global software design and digital solutions major, has invested Rs.10 million to set up a centre for design and research in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras.
The company has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the IIT to this effect.
Under the agreement, IIT Madras and Autodesk will undertake research projects and conduct outreach programmes for the small to medium enterprise (SME) market to improve design and engineering skills of professionals.
"In a globalising economy, design is emerging as a new engine of economic and industrial growth," Paul Mailhot, Autodesk's senior director of worldwide education, said in a statement here.
"Engineering design and breakthrough innovations will play a pivotal role in positioning Indian industries in the global arena apart from enhancing competitiveness and creating intellectual property," he added.
IIT Madras will also conduct a finishing school that shall offer courses in product design and development to engineering students, the statement said.