A new Software Development and Product Innovation Centre by the US-based Xcel Corp has been inaugurated at the Visvesvaraya Research and Innovation Foundation (VRIF) in Belagavi, under the auspices of Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU). This significant event took place on Friday and was marked by the presence of VTU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Vidyashankar S., Xcel Corp founder and CEO Jit Goel, VTU Registrar Prof. BE Rangaswamy, and Registrar Evaluation Prof. TN Srineevasa.
In his speech, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Vidyashankar S. highlighted VTU’s commitment to fostering comprehensive development among engineering students across the state. He expressed his pride in this milestone, noting, “Today is a special occasion for VTU as the first US-based software company, Xcel Corp, inaugurates its platform here. This is undoubtedly a historic moment for the VTU community.”
Prof. Vidyashankar elaborated on the benefits this new centre will bring to students, focusing on the ‘earning while learning’ concept. The centre will offer training, project-based learning, and internships, providing practical experience in designing, programming, and software development. He also discussed VTU’s efforts to transform Belagavi into an industry and IT hub by recognizing and financially supporting students’ innovative and creative skills, thus encouraging them to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Additionally, VTU has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in New Delhi to enhance skill development for all engineering students.
Xcel Corp’s founder and CEO, Jit Goel, emphasized Belagavi’s potential to become a significant Industry and IT hub in Karnataka, given its talented workforce, infrastructure, industries, and favorable climate. However, he pointed out that many young talents leave Belagavi for better job opportunities in cities like Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad. Through its new software development centre, Xcel Corp aims to create local employment opportunities and curb this trend.