Smita Mishra 
Bhubanananda Orissa School of Engineering (BOSE), located in Cuttack, Odisha, stands as a testament to the state’s enduring commitment to technical education and industrial advancement. Established in 1923, BOSE is the oldest diploma engineering institution in Odisha and one of the most historic in India. Its inception marked a significant milestone, providing technical education opportunities within the state at a time when such prospects were scarce, compelling students to seek education elsewhere.
During World War II, BOSE played a pivotal role by training over 1,000 war technicians and industrial workers, contributing significantly to the national effort. Post-independence, as India embarked on a path of industrialization, BOSE consistently updated its programs to align with the evolving needs of the industry. The institution expanded its offerings beyond civil engineering to include mechanical and electrical engineering, reflecting its adaptability and commitment to relevance in a changing industrial landscape.
Under the leadership of Dr. Hrusikesh Mohanty, BOSE has experienced a renaissance. An alumnus of IIT Roorkee with a doctorate in Friction Stir Welding, Dr. Mohanty brought a wealth of experience from both industry and academia. Before his tenure at BOSE, he transformed ITI Cuttack into a nationally recognized institute. At BOSE, his vision has been to honor the institution’s rich heritage while steering it towards future-ready capabilities. He emphasizes the importance of integrating emerging technologies into the curriculum and fostering collaborations between academia, industry, and government.
One of Dr. Mohanty’s significant contributions has been the establishment of 13 state-of-the-art laboratories in collaboration with global industry leaders such as Hexagon, Festo, Schneider, Phillips, and FANUC. These labs, facilitated through Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, provide students with hands-on experience in advanced technologies, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. This approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of modern industries.
In recognition of its academic excellence and institutional development, BOSE was ranked No. 1 in Odisha by the Quality Council of India (QCI) in 2024. This achievement was further acknowledged with the Chief Minister’s Award on August 15, 2024. Additionally, BOSE achieved NBA accreditation for six key diploma programs, underscoring its commitment to maintaining high educational standards.
Dr. Mohanty’s leadership has also seen the introduction of new disciplines at BOSE, including Digital Manufacturing, Automation and Robotics, and Mechatronics. These programs are designed to equip students with cutting-edge skills, enabling them to excel in a rapidly evolving industrial environment. Furthermore, BOSE has become the only diploma institution in India to file six patents in product design, highlighting its commitment to research and innovation.
The institution’s collaboration with the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Warangal, to establish a digital manufacturing laboratory marks another significant milestone. This partnership aims to revolutionize digital manufacturing education and research, providing students and faculty with exposure to innovative tools, industry-driven projects, and advanced research opportunities.
As Dr. Mohanty approaches his retirement, his passion for education and innovation remains undiminished. He has expressed a desire to embark on a new journey of personal and intellectual growth, reflecting his lifelong dedication to learning and self-improvement. His legacy at BOSE and in the broader field of technical education will endure, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence and innovation.
BOSE’s journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a beacon of technical education in India exemplifies the transformative power of visionary leadership and a steadfast commitment to excellence. As it continues to evolve, BOSE remains poised to contribute significantly to Odisha’s industrial and technological growth, shaping the future of technical education in the region and beyond.
