Dr. Sudhanshu Shekhar Das: Illuminating Odisha’s Path to Educational and Engineering Excellence

FEATURE: Odisha’s ascent as a hub of technical education and professional excellence owes much to the contributions of Dr. Sudhanshu Shekhar Das. A changemaker in every sense, Dr. Das’s journey from an ambitious student to a leader of transformative initiatives reflects unwavering determination, boundless curiosity, and a profound impact on education and engineering. As the State Chair of the Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI) Bhubaneswar, Dr. Das has set new standards for nurturing talent and driving technical excellence in the state.

 

 

Born in 1967, Dr. Das initially dreamed of a career in medicine, but life had other plans. After facing setbacks in this field, he shifted his focus to engineering—a decision that unlocked his true potential. Graduating from Khallikote College, Berhampur, he embarked on a relentless quest for knowledge, culminating in an impressive list of academic achievements: a Master’s degree in Power System Engineering from UCE, an MBA in Finance, an LLB, and two PhDs in Power Systems Engineering and Financial Management.
This dedication to lifelong learning not only shaped Dr. Das’s academic career but also laid a foundation for his professional pursuits. Today, his story is a testament to the idea that challenges often lead to new and rewarding opportunities.

 

 

Dr. Das’s career has been marked by remarkable leadership in various capacities, most notably as the State Chair of the Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI) Bhubaneswar. Established in 1920 and headquartered in Kolkata, IEI is a prestigious engineering body with over a century of history and 120 centers across India, including four in Odisha.
What sets IEI apart is its focus on empowering professionals already engaged in practice, offering opportunities to advance their careers through the coveted Chartered Engineer title. This qualification not only elevates an engineer’s professional reputation but also opens doors to international opportunities in consultancy, project management, and public sector leadership.
Under Dr. Das’s stewardship, the IEI Bhubaneswar center has introduced innovative programs aligned with the government’s emphasis on skill development and practical exposure. Initiatives like the National Program on Development and Research (NPDR) and the National Program for Development of Engineers (NPDE) equip students with real-world skills, bridging the gap between academic learning and industrial application.
Dr. Das has been a driving force in making IEI a vital player in Odisha’s technical education landscape, ensuring that students and professionals alike benefit from world-class resources and training. His contributions have fortified IEI’s legacy as a lighthouse of engineering excellence in the state.

 

 

Dr. Das’s vision extends beyond professional development into the realm of higher education. In 2000, he founded the Capital Institute of Management and Science (CIMS) on Sundarpada-Jatani Road in Bhubaneswar. The institution was the first in Odisha to introduce BBA and BCA programs, marking a significant milestone in the state’s educational landscape.
Over the years, CIMS has expanded its offerings, introducing MBA programs and a range of other courses that cater to the evolving needs of students and industries. What sets CIMS apart is its commitment to holistic education. It integrates cutting-edge technology, emphasizes leadership development over mere job readiness, and ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure.
Dr. Das envisioned CIMS as more than just an academic institution—it is a platform for students to realize their potential, regardless of socio-economic background. By providing access to quality education and fostering innovation, CIMS prepares its graduates to excel in a competitive global environment.

 

 

Dr. Das’s influence extends beyond his roles at IEI and CIMS. As a life member of the Indian Society for Technical Education (ISTE) and the Treasurer of OMCA, he is committed to advancing the cause of academic and professional excellence. His multifaceted contributions reflect a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in today’s educational and technical sectors.
Central to Dr. Das’s philosophy is the belief that education should be accessible to all and that it should equip individuals to tackle real-world challenges. This commitment is evident in his efforts to ensure that institutions like IEI and CIMS continually adapt to the changing needs of students and industries.

 

 

Dr. Sudhanshu Shekhar Das’s journey is one of resilience, innovation, and a steadfast dedication to education and professional development. From transforming the IEI Bhubaneswar center into a hub of engineering excellence to building CIMS as a beacon of holistic education, his contributions have created pathways for countless individuals to achieve their dreams.
Through his leadership, Dr. Das has not only elevated the standards of education and technical expertise in Odisha but has also inspired a generation to believe in the power of perseverance and the limitless possibilities of learning.
In an ever-evolving world, leaders like Dr. Das remind us of the importance of adaptability, dedication, and turning challenges into opportunities. His work at IEI and CIMS continues to shape the future, empowering individuals and setting benchmarks for others to follow.
As Odisha strides forward as a centre of education and innovation, the impact of visionaries like Dr. Sudhanshu Shekhar Das will resonate for generations to come.

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