IIT Bombay’s Course on Wheels: Bridging Chemical Engineering Theory and Practice

The Department of Chemical Engineering at IIT Bombay is thrilled to share the success of the seventh edition of its unique program, "Course on Wheels" (CoW), officially called Overview of Indian Chemical Industry. This program helps students connect what they learn in classrooms to real-world applications and is an excellent way to bridge the gap between studies and industry experience. The course is recognized as a 6-credit elective course (CL 308) in the curriculum offered to third-year B.Tech and first-year M.Tech students.

Started in 2016-17, CoW has become a key part of the department’s efforts to help students grow both technically and professionally. This year’s program has once again been a great learning experience for everyone involved.

What the Program Offered?

The CoW program gives 30 selected students a chance to see and learn about India’s chemical and related industries. Over 25 days, the students traveled more than 2000 kilometers across western India, visiting industries like refineries, petrochemicals, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and more.

Before the journey, students spent a week in the classroom, learning about safety, sustainability, and the basics of how these industries work. During the trip, they visited plants, interacted with senior engineers and plant operators, and saw advanced equipment and technology in action. Faculty members accompanied the students, teaching and guiding them throughout the journey.

Each day, the students reflected on what they had seen, wrote detailed reports, and worked on a project that combined all their learning. While the schedule was intense, fun group activities made the experience enjoyable as well as educational.

Support from Industry

This year’s program was made successful with support from leading chemical industries. DCM Shriram Chemicals supported the course by sponsoring the accommodation and meals for 2 weeks. Reliance Industries hosted students at their modern facilities in Jamnagar and Dahej for four days each, showing them their cutting-edge operations. Nirma Chemicals welcomed the group for two days at their Bhavnagar site and made them feel homely with their food and hospitality.

A Memorable Journey

The program ran from December 1 to December 24, giving students a unique, hands-on learning experience. They returned with new knowledge, practical skills, and a deeper understanding of the chemical industry.

The Department of Chemical Engineering is proud of this year’s success and looks forward to continuing this impactful program in the future. You can check out highlights from the journey on CoW’s Instagram page.

Visit to RIL Jamnagar

Visit to Atul Ankleshwar