SEMINAR AND WORKSHOP
International Guest Talk - Jugaad and Kaizen – Two Philosophies of Innovation
The Department of Mechanical Engineering, in association with the Career Development Centre, organised an International Guest Talk on 18th February 2026. The session was conducted for 6th and 8th-semester students to provide global industry exposure and insights into Japanese innovation practices.
Dr. Haruyuki Hiratani, CEO of Takasago Fluidic Systems, Japan, delivered the first session on the philosophies of Jugaad and Kaizen. He explained how Jugaad encourages frugal, flexible problem-solving, while Kaizen promotes continuous and systematic improvement. The talk highlighted how combining both approaches can drive sustainable innovation in engineering and manufacturing.
In the second session, Mr. Adithya Venkatesh, General Manager of Global Strategy at Takasago Fluidic Systems, introduced the company’s global operations and precision fluid control technologies. He discussed research initiatives, product applications, and career opportunities within international engineering environments. Students gained insights into global work culture and the importance of strategic thinking in engineering management.
The interactive Q&A session allowed students to engage with the speakers on innovation strategies, higher studies, and global career prospects. The discussions broadened students’ understanding of international industry expectations. The event successfully bridged academic learning with global industrial practices. Overall, the guest talk enriched students’ perspectives and encouraged them to adopt innovative thinking in their academic and professional journeys.