Pune: As India accelerates
investments in infrastructure, smart cities, and sustainable urban development,
MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) has launched the Prof. Makarand
Hastak School of Construction Engineering & Management, a new academic
initiative designed to build the country’s next generation of infrastructure
leaders. Commencing from the 2026–27 academic year, the School will
prepare future-ready professionals by integrating engineering, management,
technology, and industry-led learning.
The
launch comes at a time when India’s construction and infrastructure sector is
witnessing unprecedented growth, creating a strong demand for professionals who
can combine technical expertise with leadership and managerial capabilities. To
address this need, the School will equip students with competencies in Building
Information Modelling (BIM), Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital
construction, sustainability, project management, and data-driven
decision-making, preparing them to lead complex infrastructure projects in
India and globally.
Announcing
the launch, Dr. R. M. Chitnis, Vice Chancellor, MIT-WPU, said:
“The
construction and infrastructure sector is undergoing a significant
transformation driven by technology, sustainability, and rapid urbanisation.
Through the Prof. Makarand Hastak School of Construction Engineering &
Management, we aim to develop professionals who possess not only strong
technical expertise but also the managerial and leadership capabilities
required to lead complex infrastructure projects and contribute meaningfully to
nation-building.”
As
its flagship programme, the School will offer an MBA in Construction
Management, designed to bridge the gap between engineering education and
business leadership. The industry-integrated curriculum combines classroom
learning with practical exposure to prepare graduates for leadership roles
across construction, infrastructure, real estate, consulting, and project
management organisations.
Reinforcing
its industry-centric approach, MIT-WPU also signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) between its Department of Civil Engineering and the Builders
Association of India (BAI), Pune Centre. The partnership will facilitate
internships, live industry projects, expert mentoring, guest lectures,
experiential learning, skill development, and enhanced placement opportunities,
ensuring students gain meaningful exposure to real-world industry practices.
To
mark the launch, MIT-WPU organised a Round Table Conclave on “Building
Future Construction Leaders: Why Techno-Managerial Competencies Are Needed?”
Moderated by Prof. (Dr.) Sushma Kulkarni, Principal Advisor to the
School, the conclave brought together representatives from BAI, CREDAI, ICI,
PCERF, and leading construction industry experts. The discussions
underscored the growing importance of AI, digital construction, Building
Information Modelling (BIM), sustainability, safety, communication, and project
management in shaping the future of the infrastructure sector.
To
encourage academic excellence and attract talented students, MIT-WPU has also
announced Merit Scholarships for the inaugural batch. The first 20
eligible students (10 girls and 10 boys) will receive a 50% tuition fee
waiver, while the next 20 eligible students (10 girls and 10 boys)
will receive a 20% tuition fee waiver, on a first-come, first-served
basis, subject to the University’s scholarship norms.
With
a strong emphasis on industry integration, experiential learning, emerging
technologies, and leadership development, the Prof. Makarand Hastak
School of Construction Engineering & Management aims to create globally
competent professionals capable of driving innovation, sustainability, and
excellence across India’s rapidly evolving construction and infrastructure
ecosystem.