Tamil Nadu to establish alumni networks in 65 technical colleges

The Tamil Nadu government has launched an initiative to establish alumni networks across 65 government technical institutions to enhance academic support, industry connections, research opportunities, and student placements. The state has allocated 1.30 crore rupees for this program, which includes 11 government engineering colleges and 54 government polytechnic colleges.

Each institution will receive a one-time grant of 2 lakh rupees to create or strengthen their alumni associations. These funds are intended for identifying alumni, building databases, organizing meetings, and conducting outreach programs. The Department of Higher Education expects that active alumni participation will foster stronger ties between government colleges and professional organizations, providing benefits such as mentoring, internships, career guidance, and research partnerships.

Officials believe these organized networks will play a vital role in improving research, innovation, and entrepreneurship on campuses. The government cited the Alagappa Chettiar Government College of Engineering and Technology in Karaikudi as a model for alumni engagement, noting efforts to encourage the college's alumni association to raise 75 crore rupees for the creation of the ‘Alagappa Incubation Forum and Research Park’ by the 2026-27 academic year.