The Department of Civil Engineering, Integral University, in association with the CSIR – Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, successfully organized a two-day Skill Development Programme (SDP) titled “Recent Technologies in Building Construction and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)” on 21st–22nd January 2026 at the Seminar Hall, Block E, Integral University.
The programme aimed to enhance the technical competence and research capabilities of faculty members, research scholars, and students by providing exposure to emerging construction technologies, sustainable building practices, and advanced numerical analysis tools relevant to civil engineering. A total of 115 participants, including 9 faculty members and 106 students, actively attended the programme.
Inaugural Session
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Syed Aqeel Ahmad, Head, Department of Civil Engineering, who highlighted the importance of capacity-building initiatives in bridging the gap between academia, industry, and research organizations. He emphasized the adoption of modern construction technologies and sustainable practices to address contemporary engineering challenges.
Dr. Neeraj Jain, Senior Principal Scientist, CBRI, provided an overview of the institute, outlining its contributions to building science, sustainable construction, disaster mitigation, and energy-efficient infrastructure development.
Technical Sessions
Energy Efficiency of Buildings
Delivered by Dr. Tabish Alam (Principal Scientist, CBRI), this session focused on sustainable building design through passive strategies such as natural ventilation, daylighting, insulation, and shading. Active systems including advanced lighting, HVAC technologies, and building automation were also discussed. The integration of renewable energy systems and economic benefits of energy-efficient buildings were highlighted with practical examples.
Pre-Fabricated Structural Elements
Dr. Md. Muslim Ansari (Senior Scientist, CBRI) elaborated on prefabricated construction systems such as precast concrete, steel, and hybrid structures. The session compared monolithic and prefabricated construction, emphasizing structural behaviour, connection systems, and seismic performance. Key challenges related to quality control and on-site erection were also discussed.
Numerical Modelling Using Finite Element Software
This session focused on advanced numerical modelling techniques using FE software. Core concepts such as discretization, meshing, material modelling, and boundary conditions were explained. The importance of validation, convergence analysis, and real-world applications in design optimization and failure analysis was emphasized.
Day 2 Sessions
Sub-Surface Profiling Techniques (GPR)
Er. Ajay Dwivedi (Senior Technical Officer, CBRI) introduced Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) techniques for non-destructive sub-surface investigation. The session covered principles, data interpretation, and applications in foundation analysis and heritage structures, including case studies of the Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, and Sun Temple, Konark.
Gypsum Circularity and Low-Carbon Materials
Dr. Neeraj Jain discussed circular economy principles in construction, focusing on gypsum waste recycling and low-carbon material development. Innovations in gypsum-based products and energy-efficient production systems were presented, highlighting their role in sustainable construction.
Valedictory Session
The programme concluded with remarks by Prof. Syed Aqeel Ahmad, who summarized the key learnings and encouraged continued collaboration with research organizations. Mementos were presented to the guest speakers as a token of appreciation.
The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Zishhan Raza Khan (Associate Professor, Civil Engineering), who acknowledged the contributions of all speakers and organizing members, including Dr. Vikash Singh and Dr. Neha Mumtaz, along with participating faculty and students.
Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The programme strongly aligned with multiple United Nations SDGs, including:
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SDG 4 (Quality Education): Enhancing technical knowledge and research skills
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SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): Promoting energy-efficient building systems
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SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure): Encouraging modern construction technologies
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SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Supporting resilient infrastructure development
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SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): Emphasizing material recycling and circular economy
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SDG 13 (Climate Action): Advocating low-carbon construction practices
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SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Strengthening academia–research collaboration