MENON-AICTE Idea Lab, Shivaji University, Kolhapur

The "MENON-AICTE Idea Lab, Shivaji University, Kolhapur" is inaugurated on 3rd October 2025 by Hon. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. D. T. Shirke and 

Er. Sachin Menon ,  Chief  Managing Director of Menon Group, Kolhapur in presence of dignitaries of  Shivaji University Kolhapur and

Menon Group of Companies, Kolhapur. The primary purpose of the AICTE-IDEA (Idea Development, Evaluation & Application) Lab is to provide

a centralized facility where students and faculty can convert their creative ideas into functional prototypes.

Established by the School of Engineering and Technology (Former Department of Technology) Shivaji University, Kolhapur in collaboration

with All India Council for Technical Education , New Delhi , Menon Pistons Ltd and Menon Piston Rings Ltd. The lab is financially supported by

Menon Group of Industries (CSR support of Rs. 50 Lakh), AICTE (Rs. 30 Lakh) , Shivaji University (Rs. 30 Lakh) and alumni.  This lab

aim to transform technical education from theoretical learning to a practice centric, "learning by doing" model.

Core Objectives

Prototyping & Product Visualization: Providing all necessary tools such as PCB prototype development machine, microcontrollers, 3D printers,

CNC routers, and laser cutters under one roof to move from concept to physical product.

STEM Application: Encouraging the practical application of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fundamentals through experiential

learning.

21st Century Skill Development: Training graduates in critical thinking, design thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and communication.

Industry & Societal Alignment: Serving as a bridge between academia and industry to solve real-world problems and support national initiatives like

"Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat".

Entrepreneurship Support: Nurturing a start-up culture by providing incubation support, mentorship, and resources for early-stage innovation.

Key Operational Features

24/7 Availability: Mandated to remain open around the clock to provide students and faculty uninterrupted access for creative work.

Shared Resource Hub: While embedded in a specific institution, the lab is often accessible to neighbouring schools, colleges, and local industries.

Multidisciplinary Research: Promoting collaboration across different engineering and science departments to foster interdisciplinary projects.