Higher Education Digest – April 2023 – 10 Must Watch Education Leaders of the Year – 2023

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MUST-WATCH

BUSINESS SCHOOL OF

THE YEAR-2023

Chandigarh Business School of Administration (CBSA)

MUST-WATCH

ARCHITECTURE COLLEGE OF

THE YEAR-2023

Thakur School of Architecture and Planning

Prof (Dr) Asha Verma Pro Vice-Chancellor & Dean, IILM Law School

Prof. A Balasubramaniam Director, Institute of Design, JK Lakshmipat University

Dr. Khasrul Islam Director, Ajmal Foundation

Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Kumar Sharma Vice Chancellor, Jaypee University of Information Technology

Sandra Agnes D’Souza Director – South, JD Institute of Fashion Technology

KALKA TO SHIMLA RAILWAY, INDIA

Managing Editor

Sarath Shyam

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April 2023 Vol - 5 Issue - 4

Must-Watch Education Leaders of the Year-2023

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Leading the Way: Inspiring Higher Education Leaders in India

Higher Education in India is undergoing a significant transformation as the country strives to keep up with global education trends. The challenges of imparting quality education to the masses have never been greater. India, with its population of 1.3 billion, is the world’s second-most populous country, and with a large and diverse student population, education leaders have a significant role to play in shaping the future of India’s education landscape.

One of the primary challenges faced by education leaders in India is the ever-changing global education trends. The world is changing rapidly, and education leaders must adapt to new teaching methods, curricula, and technology to ensure students are prepared for the future. This requires constant innovation and a willingness to experiment with new approaches to education.

Good leadership is crucial in tackling these challenges. Education leaders must have the vision, skills, and experience to lead their institutions to excellence. They must be able to inspire and motivate their faculty and students to achieve their full potential. They must also be able to build strong partnerships with industry, government, and other stakeholders to create a worldclass education system in India.

With these challenges in mind, we have identified the 10 Must-Watch Education Leaders of the Year2023 who have been role models to academicians. These leaders have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, innovative thinking, and a commitment to excellence in education. They have worked tirelessly to bring positive changes to their institutions and inspired others to do the same. Enjoy Reading.

Sarath Shyam

ADVISORY BOARD

Mr. Amulya Sah, PGD PM & IR, PG Diploma in PM&IR (XISS Ranchi)

Chief Human Resources Officer, Former Head HR group Samsung R&D Institute India,Transformative HR Leader, Change agent, Digitization facilitator, Engagement architect, Trainer and Diversity champion.

Dr. Varughese K.John, PhD, MBA, MPhil, MCom, LLB. Former Program Director, MS in Management Program, GSATM - AU

Mr. Dean E. Hoke, M.S, B.A Co-Founder of Edu Alliance, LTD, UAE and Managing Partner of Edu Alliance Group, USA

Major General (Rtd.) Dr. Sunil Chandra, VSM (Vishishta Seva Medal), Ph.D, M. Phil, MA, M.Ed, PGBDA

Ex-M D Army Welfare Education Society, ExCOO GEMS Education - India, Ex- Addl Dir Gen - Army Education, Mentor - Adventure-Pulse

Dr. Ajay Shukla, Ph.D, MBA, BE. Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Higher Education UAE

Dr. Venus M. Alboruto, PhD, Master Teacher, Researcher, Innovator, Trainer.

Mamta Thakur Former CEO ( ASEAN), Arc Skills

Ph.D, MBA, BSc. Former Program Director of Ph.D, Recipient of Fulbright Fellowship Award & Dan Evans Award for Excellence and Writer columnist.

Shanthi Rajan (MSHRM, FHEA, AMCILT) Director, Institution Development, University of Stirling, RAK Campus, UAE.

Dr. Hans A. Andrews Ed.D. Distinguished Fellow in Community College Leadership, Olney Central College, Illinois,USA

CEO at BMR Innovations, Ex Senior General Manager at Panasonic, LG, The Hindu, TATA, Author: Moment of Signal & The Roaring Lambs, Motivational Speaker & Leadership Consultant.

Ph.D (Marketing)., SFHEA (UK), MBA (Marketing), PGHRM, BA (Marketing & Economics)

Dr.

Ph.D Senior Director - Global Partnerships, Advisory & Consulting - Connecta®, Adjunct Faculty - Assumption University, Former Global Director Technology & Risk Management - GEMS Education, Former CIO - Athena Education.

Mr. Sreedhar Bevara, MBA, B.Com

Dr. Kuldeep Nagi,

Dr. Khyati Shetty

Manoj Varghese,

SANDRA AGNES D’SOUZA Director – South, JD Institute of Fashion Technology

PROF. (DR.) RAJENDRA KUMAR SHARMA

DR. KHASRUL ISLAM Director, Ajmal Foundation

PROF. A BALASUBRAMANIAM Director, Institute of Design, JK Lakshmipat University

PROF. (DR) ASHA VERMA Pro Vice-Chancellor & Dean, IILM Law School

Vice Chancellor, Jaypee University of Information Technology

NEP 2020 IN 2023

Ananya Bhadauria, International Education Policy and Stakeholder Relations Manager, Acumen

IT IS TIME TO RETHINK

Dr. Nitin Patwa, Deputy Director (Undergraduate Program & Director of Simulations), SP Jain School of Global Management, Dubai

MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING: HELPFUL TIPS AND RESOURCES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENT

Dr Mahima Kalla, Digital Health Researcher, Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne

TOP TEN INDICATIONS OF A FUTURE UNIVERSITY

Dr. Solomon Arulraj David, Associate Professor of Education, The British University in Dubai

MANTRA

Mental Health and Wellbeing: Helpful Tips and Resources for International Student

Dr Mahima Kalla, Digital Health Researcher, Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne

Dr Mahima Kalla is a digital health researcher based within the Centre for Digital Transformation of Health at the University of Melbourne (Australia). She specialises in the exploration of people’s biopsychosocial needs, and the intersection of physical and mental health.

MENTOR’S

International student mobility has been on the rise over the past 20 years. According to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), there were over six million tertiary international students globally as of 2019. International students have historically faced psychosocial challenges such as loneliness and homesickness, academic stress often due to new ways of teaching and learning, difficulties negotiating systems and social structures, and experiencing discrimination. These factors combined can lead to poor mental health outcomes in international students. Furthermore, international students, in particular male students, are less likely

to seek help for mental health challenges compared to domestic students.

The imposed lockdowns and travel ban during the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges due to a variety of factors, such as greater social isolation, reduced access to part-time job opportunities impacting financial stability, and additional academic pressure due to rapid transition to online learning. The OECD has estimated that the pandemic potentially affected close to four million international students studying in OECD countries. While overall students’ mental health worsened during the pandemic, fortunately the pandemic also accelerated the public discourse on mental health, and

The imposed lockdowns and travel ban during the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges due to a variety of factors, such as greater social isolation, reduced access to part-time job

expedited the provision of crucial mental health support services to people. With the re-opening of travel and return to campuses worldwide, here are five things international students can do to support their mental health and wellbeing:

1) Get help early: Early intervention is key. When it comes to mental health and wellbeing, it is important to recognise and acknowledge signs of negative emotional states as early as possible and get the help that you need. Many educational institutions offer counselling and pastoral care, free of charge or at subsidised prices. Additionally, there may be government-funded services that you could access for free, some of which also provide translating and interpreting services. For example, in Australia, international students can access services such as Lifeline, Beyond Blue, and MensLine among others. You may also be able to seek interpreters to speak to such services, for instance, via the Translating and Interpreting Service in Australia. Some international students may also be able to obtain full or partial coverage of mental health services through their overseas student health insurance, depending on the insurance cover and service provider.

2) Examine internalised stigma: Despite the growing awareness of the importance of looking after our mental health and wellbeing, internalised stigma and unconscious bias can delay help-seeking in international students. The Mayo Clinic provides some helpful suggestions to address mental health stigma. It may also be helpful to recognise that

Digital health technologies, such as mobile apps, web-based resources, and online peer support communities have immense potential to support people’s health and wellbeing, in particular for promotion of self-care

such stigma is often rooted in false beliefs and misinformation about mental illness. Educating yourself from evidence-based sources and talking to a counsellor may help overcome your internalised stigma, improve self-esteem, and facilitate help-seeking.

3) Engage in Self-care: In addition to getting professional help, self-care is also crucial when it comes to promoting mental health and wellbeing. Mental health is a multifaceted issue which is influenced by a variety of aspects including lifestyle habits. Making a self-care plan can be a great way to support your holistic personal wellbeing. The Black Dog Institute has created a personal mental health check-in template that can help you identify changes in your personal coping ability and take concrete steps to improve your mental health.

4) Get moving: There is growing scientific consensus that physical exercise has profound benefits for mental health, including reduction in stress, depression, and anxiety. Women’s health not-for-profit Jean Hailes provides actionable advice about developing and implementing an exercise plan that can be applied by people of all genders. It is crucial to choose an activity that you enjoy for longevity of your exercise program. There is also emerging evidence that leisure-time physical activity, i.e. physical activity undertaken in one’s free time has greater benefits for mental health compared to physical activity conducted as part of employment responsibilities or daily life tasks. Thus, you may consider combining

exercise with recreation, e.g. planning hikes or bike rides with a friend, picking up a social sport, or even engaging in pleasurable solo walks in a restorative environment, such as a local park or other green space.

5) Make use of technology: The pandemic also catapulted global investment in digital health technologies as we frantically sought to transition our ways of living and working to the ‘metaverse’. Digital health technologies, such as mobile apps, web-based resources, and online peer support communities have immense potential to support people’s health and wellbeing, in particular for promotion of self-care. Examples of digital mental health tools that may be helpful, include but are not limited to: online mental health self-assessment tools, expert-developed mindfulness apps such as Smiling Mind, culturally and linguistically tailored health information websites such as Embrace Mental Health, online peer support services such as those available via SANE and QLife. However, given the diversity of information available on the web, in particular the ongoing risks of health misinformation, it is important to consider whether the resources and information you are consuming are evidence-based. One tip is to probe whether the resources you are accessing were developed by subject matter experts, in consultation with people who have lived experience of mental health challenges.

Principally, it is okay to start small. Taking incremental self-care steps towards improving your mental health, and getting help at the earliest signs of distress, can go a long way in improving your quality of life.

MUST-WATCH

BUSINESS SCHOOL OF THE YEAR-2023

CHANDIGARH BUSINESS SCHOOL OF ADMINISTRATION (CBSA)

An academically responsive institution

Chandigarh Business School of Administration (CBSA) was established in 2001 as a constituent College of Chandigarh Group of Colleges (CGC) Landran, which has a very clear perspective of becoming an academically responsive institution to the requirements of the corporate world. CBSA offers a plethora of events and activities to aspiring managers to get deep insights by providing industry and academic interfaces.

Dr. Ramandeep Saini, Director – Principal of CBSA, says, “we leave no stone unturned to mentor all our students and teachers to explore their unexplored potentials and enhance their holistic

Chandigarh Business School of Administration focuses on becoming an academically responsive institution to the requirements of the corporate world. It has set for itself the goals promoting innovation & capacity for adapting to the ever-evolving changes in the business scenario

Project-Based Learning is the essence of the MBA program at CBSA. As a part of the MBA syllabus, this learning technique focuses on inculcating various traits by undertaking projects such as Experiential Projects, Global Virtual Teams, Global Classrooms, Local Relevance, & many more

development to meet up the requirements not only of the present but also cater to the needs of future in the society. Our vision is to be recognized as the leading Business School creating committed professionals determined to serve society.”

CBSA aims to continuously grow and become a fountainhead among business schools through effective teaching-learning processes and pre-placement training. “We enhance students’ business and technical knowledge

by providing state-of-the-art facilities. Also, we provide opportunities to the students for global exposure through international tie-ups to develop a diverse and holistic culture among students and faculty,” she adds.

Unique facilities available for students across the nation

Dr. Ramandeep says, “The journey of 21 years has been rewarding and humbling. The passing years saw CGC Landran grow from strength to strength. Today CGC Landran is amongst the finest educational groups in India. CBSA, the constituent college, owes its success hugely to its team of hard-working faculty and supportive management.” CBSA has a wide range of facilities to accommodate all the requirements of the changing diversity.

CBSA provides comprehensive 360 Degree Training aimed explicitly at overall development to make the students industryready and aware of the emerging trends of the corporate world. With the help of TPP (Training and Pre Placement) Department, CBSA students have quickly developed their personalities and can crack interviews.

“We emphasize multifaceted development through various student activities. We have various Management Clubs like Finance Club, Marketing Club, HR Club, Analytics Club, Entrepreneurs Club, and Cultural Club that are managed and operated by the students,” says Dr. Ramandeep.

Project-Based Learning is the essence of all the programs at CBSA, which focuses on inculcating various project managing skills by undertaking projects such as Experiential Projects like research projects, market surveys, secondary research, and many more.

Collaborations with the Industry and International Institutions

Industry interface is a prerequisite for educational institutes. Dr. Ramandeep says, “The students are highly encouraged to undertake industry projects, presentations, case studies, research work, and work as trainees to gain practical experience in the industrial working environment. We undertake special initiatives such as pre-placement training, industryinstitute interface, conferences, and seminars to prepare them for a successful professional career. We have MoUs with various companies to facilitate the same. 22 plus National and 37 plus International MOUs have been signed by the institute, which is a USP of our brand value.”

CBSA has a specialized “Department of International Affairs,” which aims to increase

its student fraternity’s global exposure. When students are exposed to Intercultural dialogue and understanding, they gain knowledge about global markets. They are prepared to leverage the impact of international exposure and accelerate their potential by creating new opportunities for their future.

Dr. Ramandeep says, “Cross-cultural references and global perspective allow students to have a pragmatic view of the business ethics, practices, and protocols in various countries. Ample of seminars, webinars, student exchange, and faculty exchange programs are arranged for students and faculty time and again with our international partners to bring international exposure to the campus. Virtual schools add stars to the enrichment of our students and faculty.”

DR. RAMANDEEP SAINI, DIRECTOR – PRINCIPAL

Key Placements and Scholarships available for students at CBSA

CBSA ensures that the students receive the best placement offers. Consequently, it regularly conducts employability tests to enhance their employability quotient in partnership with leading assessment companies. Dr. Ramandeep says, “The institute is recognized for bridging the industry-academia gap and as a fruitful result, majority of our students have been placed with renowned companies and have been offered great packages of around 13 lakh plus.”

Scholarships at CBSA are offered to those students who hold potential but have financial barriers. The institute has several students

The CaseBased Teaching approach has been employed at CBSA to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills

enrolled in these schemes, which benefit them in pursuing their education.

Key Highlights of the Institute’s Faculty Members

Dr. Ramandeep says, “Our faculties are our most valuable asset, and we leave no stone unturned to mentor and upskill our faculties to make them explore their unexplored potentials and be ready to meet any challenges that can be brought to them. NEP 2020 has been the prime focus, and we have organized FDPs in the same context. It gives us great pride to share that majority of our faculties is doctorate and at least 5 plus will be awarded doctorates by next year.”

Research being the prime focus, CBSA faculties has published more than 250 research papers, 20 plus case studies, and 7 plus patents have been filed till date. There are 6 start-ups and 70 ideas in the pipeline, which are being mentored by their faculties.

Encouraging Innovation and Creativity in Students

CBSA aims to train students under real-life corporate programs that concur with their academics and experiential mentoring activities. These programs are a careful mix of industry /corporate visits, field research, domestic & international internships, expert lectures,

peer mentoring sessions, technical seminars, practicalbased workshops, HR Summits, Banking, and Finance Conclave, Ideathons, B - Plans competitions, Hackathons with subject matter experts, etc. These activities make the students familiar with the dynamic corporate world.

Dr. Ramandeep says, “CBSA has been ranked in the Best Performer Category by the Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA) in 2021 and has fetched a 5-star and 4 –star rating in 2021 and 2022 respectively by Initiative of Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), Ministry of Education, GOI. CBSA is also a member of the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) and Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA).”

CBSA is not only imparting knowledge but also has an industry-centric approach, which helps bridge the gap between campus and corporate.

Promoting Entrepreneurship on the Campus

Dr. Ramandeep says, “We have a dedicated department of Research and Development (R&D). R&D Department brings together startups, industry mentors, and eminent academicians from reputed institutions in India and

abroad that thrive on continuous interaction of theory and practice. R&D Department encourages young minds, students, and innovators to undertake entrepreneurship as a career option and set up a successful startup venture.”

CBSA has been imparting knowledge related to entrepreneurial skills, IPRs, and boosting creativity through innovation to its students. CBSA organizes various guest lectures for the students and guides them in various entrepreneurial competitions. She says, “Students and the faculty members have filed 7 -plus patents and have around 6 startup ventures which have been started through the incubation center under the R&D Department. Several activities for enhancing the creativity of the students like expert lectures, panel discussions, etc., are organized in collaboration with R&D.”

Student’s Life at the Campus

Campus life at CBSA is more than the classes taken or the degree earned. It’s about making lifelong connections and being part of a community that helps the students to grow into the person they want to be.

Dr. Ramandeep says, “Campus life at CBSA is full of liveliness. It enhances the holistic development and educational experience for all students by complementing academic study with co-curricular opportunities that engage, enrich, and advance student learning and growth.”

“One of the most important attractions is the International Model United Nations (MUN) which is a 2-day annual flagship event of CGC wherein students from colleges and schools across India participate and win attractive cash prizes. The campus is a center of attraction for many celebrities and is occasionally visited by them to promote their projects,” she adds.

CBSA provides a comprehensive 360 Degree Training specifically aimed at overall development in order to make the students industry-ready & known to the emerging trends corporate world

Facilities to maximize the accessibility and effectiveness of education

CBSA has separate accommodation facilities for boys and girls. All the necessary facilities are available for the students, such as a reading room, gym, music room, 24/7 internet connection, indoor games facilities, mess facilities, etc. The library is well equipped with over 40,000 books on varied subjects. With an expansive space that can accommodate around 300 students at a time, the library subscribes to national and international subject journals and national and regional dailies. CBSA library also maintains a separate “Book Bank” collection exclusively for meritorious students. Besides, the central library has a collection of more than 20,000 titles and subscribes to 200+ journals, magazines & periodicals.

CBSA has a dispensary within the campus that meets the basic medical requirements of students. It is under the supervision of well-qualified and experienced doctors and nurses. The institute has tie-ups with Fortis Hospital, Sohana Hospital,

Ivy Hospital, Mohali, and Cosmo Hospital, Mohali, for concessional consultancy, tests, and medical emergencies. Three ambulances are also available for meeting emergency services.

Dr. Ramandeep says, “CBSA has a fleet of buses that picks up and drops off students and faculty from various locations. Buses are available for the following locationsRopar, Kurali, Kharar, Banur, Rajpura, Mandi Gobindgarh, Khanna, Sirhind, Fatehgarh Sahib, Bassi Pathan, Samrala, Ludhiana, etc.”

Preparing to operate in the postpandemic world

Dr. Ramandeep says, “during the first 2 months of the new normal where we took a drift from traditional to online mode of academics, we witnessed some turbulence, but as everybody geared up to adapt to the system, we could quickly emerge back with full strength and enthusiasm in the entire system of academics. Hereafter when we resumed offline mode, we took no time in actually starting to revamping the campus facilities and academic readiness to ensure social distancing in classes as well. Soon we were able to cope with these transitions and made ourselves a dynamic environment ready for any expected and unforeseen changes in the future as well.”

“We are taking steps ahead by preparing ourselves for hybrid teaching and upgrading the students and faculties. Many events, webinars, symposiums, and expert talks are planned to be conducted in hybrid mode so that a large audience can be targeted, and students can benefit from it,” Dr. Ramandeep concludes.

ARCHITECTURE COLLEGE OF THE YEAR-2023

THAKUR SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE & PLANNING

Creating Smart, Environment - Conscious Professionals

With climate change looming around the corner, sustainable and eco-friendly designs are the need of the hour to save the world. Understanding the importance of intelligent professionals that can create sustainable structures, Mumbai-based Thakur School of Architecture & Planning (TSAP) is nurturing virtues of ‘Environment Consciousness’ by sensitizing the students, towards the fine nuances of the profession. “We believe an environment conscious approach to design is a smarter way, to provide solutions, that go beyond the agenda of green design, while delving into the nuances of a complete solution. The approach that respects the uniqueness of each

Established in the year 2014, Thakur School of Architecture & Planning aspires to emerge as a distinguished institute known to facilitate and nurture competent, innovative and creative professionals that are socially responsible - through value based education

design situation and aims to provide the most appropriate stakeholder-centric solution,” shares Mr Karan V. Singh, CEO of Thakur School of Architecture and Planning. Mumbai.

TSAP, as an emergent school of architecture, is conscious about positioning itself on the global platform. The institution has an MoU with ETSAB, Barcelona, Spain and has engaged with Politecnico Milano, Milan, Italy, for the immersion program for its students. TSAP has travelled across five countries covering 8 international cities, to explore the global trends in architecture education and practice. Mr KaranSingh explains, “The International immersion programs are an effective way to provide exposure and develop a comfort level in the students for exploring international Internships, placements and pursuing post-graduation programs. The regular

The Students Welfare Development Association of TSAP is a vibrant body formed by students. The SDWA team conducts various activities throughout the year

visit of internationally renowned faculty members to the institution, has contributed to the development of skill sets, required for meeting the expectations of the Industry globally.”

From a Group that Created Eminent Institutions

Thakur Education Group is a Visionary Founding of Shri V.K. Singhji as the Chairman of the Trust. Starting with the first school in 1989, the trust now has more than 21 Institutions under its banner. The trust is serving a student strength of over 50000, studying under a variety of programs and levels from KG to PhD programs. For instance, Thakur College of Engineering and Technology (TCET) is a well-established institution with a NAAC A grade and a history

of laurels for patenting, innovation, placement, research and awards at National and international levels. Thakur Institute of Management Studies & Research (TIMSR) is NAAC A+ accredited institution with a high ranking. Thakur Global Business School (TGBS) is an emerging institution, with involvement in international exposure and collaboration.

Established in 2014 by Thakur Education Group (TEG), TSAP is certified under ISO 21001-2018 and fast becoming an outstanding as well as the most preferred architecture college, in the city. Thakur Education Group is committed to contributing to nation-building. It believes in providing high-quality education standards and offers its students the opportunity to learn in a competitive and challenging environment.“The

Karan V. Singh, CEO

trust provides state-of-the-art infrastructure at par with international standards. All Institutions under the group have brilliant placement, and career records of the graduates while the alumni members are gaining appreciation, as well as stalwart positions in Industry, national and internationally,” claims Mr KaranSingh.

Offering Modern Architecture Education on a Global Scale

TSAP is strategically located in the residential neighbourhood of Thakur Village in Kandivali (East) of Mumbai. The lush green selfcontained well-planned township. offers safe, self-sufficient, calm, and serene neighbourhood. The institute has state-of-the-art infrastructure facilities at par with international standards. “We have always strived to fill the Institute-

Industry gap by involving professionals and experts from the Industry by actively participating in the decision-making process while shaping the institutional pedagogy. The involvement of architects like Ar. Yatin Pandya, Ar. Arvind Kanetkar, Ar.Shyam Khandekar, Ar.Nitin Killawala, Ar. Tushar Desai, Ar. Vijay Kale, Ar. Sanjay Patil, Ar.Shakti Parmar and more as industry experts and given direction through their visit to the institution,” shares Mr Karan Singh.

Academic Connect with authorities to conduct specialized training programs is a unique system at TSAP. The institute has undertaken certified training programs with Hunnarshala (Bhuj), Laurie Baker Centre (Chennai), IIT (Kharagpur), CEASID Pune, Footprints Earth (Ahmedabad), Manav Sanghralaya (Bhopal)

The cultural fest of ‘EPOCH’ is the biggest annual gathering and involves weeks of preparation leading to the mega event

to identify a few. TSAP has MoU with the Fire Safety Association of India to foster InstituteAcademia collaboration and exchange. The partnership enables the institute to partake in activities and engagements with the Industry. TSAP has launched the Students Chapter in collaboration with Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). to initiate various Industry collaborated activities towards the enrichment of curriculum and inculcating virtues of environment consciousness. Mr Karan Singh shares “TSAP strives to address the demand for generating a creed of environment-conscious professionals in the specialized domain.”

TSAP has over 85 Professional firms spread all over India and internationally with Architectural Practice in connect for recruitment and placements of interns. The institute is supported by the Maharashtra Chamber of Housing Industry (MCHI) for the placement of its graduates and interns, at key positions in the real estate segment. However, owing to the robust emphasis on entrepreneurship and engagements with professionals, most

TSAP graduates either opt for a post-graduate program or start with their own collaborative practice. “It has prompted TSAP to set up an incubation centre where students can work on their startup idea” shares Mr Karan Singh. Most of our graduates take up lateral placements in the firms of their choice and see it as a launch pad for the niche-specific progression that they set themselves to initiate their own independent practice. Only a fraction of the students opt for placement through the institution, and we have 100% placement records for them,” shares Mr Karan Singh.

Providing Opportunities to Thrive

TSAP faculty members come from various backgrounds, including construction management, conservation, urban planning, urban design, environmental design, general architecture, advanced architecture and more. Mr Karan Singh says, “We ensure good mix of faculty members covering a wide spectrum of advanced knowledge areas to enrich and address the current need of Industry requirement.”

The pedagogical approach of the institute is scientifically developed to deliver the identified graduate attributes mapped under the outcomebased education model. Besides, the faculty members are trained in the ISO quality assurance system to ensure the successful compliance of the Quality Management that, TSAP strives to maintain.

“Faculty members at TSAP are well versed and proficient with the use of on-board drawings as a pedagogical approach for delivering the contents through sketches and drawings on board,” shares Mr. Karan Singh. At TSAP, the Lecture sessions are a blend of hybrid learning, taking the best of the offline and online modes of content delivery. The state-of-the-art digitally enabled infrastructure with e-ready classrooms and studio adds to the learning ambience at TSAP. Mr Karan Singh adds, “The unique practice of TSAP is a mentor-mentee system that allows for keeping procedural track of each student’s performance through proctored mentoring and addressing special needs through real-time response. The emphasis on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and focus on Nurturing Environment Consciousness in every single endeavour is the unique value addition that makes TSAP stand apart.”

TSAP has a unique policy to reward outstanding and advanced learners in the institution that has helped the students to up skills and have a complete 360-degree development. The advanced learners of the institute are identified on academic and cocurricular performance and specially nurtured for advanced learning and preparation for competitive skills. “The students identified as advanced learners by Institute are promoted to participate in National and International

competitions by providing them the required infrastructural support facilities and an ecosystem for advanced learning,” states Mr Karan Singh. TSAP’s advanced learner scholarship policy has provided a launch pad for the students to achieve higher goals and set higher benchmarks. The students have won various competitions that have helped them establish their career graph ahead and provided an advantage in the selection during the Master’s program.

The institute has a scholarship assistance cell that offers guidance and support for the students to avail of financial benefits through various schemes provided by the government. The students who do not qualify for any economic benefits under the scholarship portals are offered a scholarship of Rs. 1 lakh from the trust, based upon the overall academic and co-curricular performance on a merit cum means basis. Mr Karan Singh says, “We believe and practice inclusivity through enrichment of curricular and co-curricular activities involving the active participation of the students’ representative teams. The Institute supports students from other cities as campus ambassadors for guiding and facilitating the students migrating for higher education.”

TSAP’s Campus Ambassador program has achieved immense success and popularity and is well received by the students’ community coming from other cities and towns. The Equal Opportunity Cell and Learner Centric Curriculum are well balanced to provide opportunities for advanced and slow or challenged learners through meticulously planning and implementing policy in teaching, learning and evaluation systems. Mr Karan Singh adds, “The Institute provides advanced

TSAP has recently formed Institutional Clubs to promote hobbies and create a social network amongst the student community

learners to undertake specialized courses, participate in competitions and represent the institution at various forums. The Institute offers slow learners refresher programs and recovery sessions through a meticulously planned mentor-mentee program.”

A Campus Life to Remember Forever

The Students Welfare Development Association of TSAP is a vibrant body formed by students. The SDWA team conducts various activities throughout the year. Mr Karan Singh says, “The Annual Activity Calendar is drives wide spectrum of events involving all diversities’ participation. The inclusive participation by involving the celebration of representation of

festivities of each region is a unique culture of TSAP.” The institute every year receives students from other states and linguistic backgrounds. These students are the brand ambassadors of the region and are given leadership roles, to ensure the inclusion of their regional flavour in the students’ activities.

The Institutes cultural fest of ‘EPOCH’ is the biggest annual gathering and involves weeks of preparation leading to the mega event. The program involves setting up the exhibition, art installation, guest seminars, creative handson workshops and more. The students create innovative art installations and experiment around the event’s theme. The skill sets involved in creating each installation are unique, and the

idea is to generate installations involving important societal issues or concerns. The students are also promoted to undertake workshops on special skill sets for their peers and faculty members. The key event of the program is the multi-cultural evening that includes performances from years.

Apart from the annual fests, TSAP celebrates cultural festivals, anniversary of national leaders,

architects and likewise. The institute has won various trophies at the National Association of Students of Architecture competition. Besides, the institute has Social Entrepreneurship & Rural Engagement Cell (SESREC) under the Mahatma Gandhi National Council of Rural Education (MGNCRE) of the Ministry of Education to undertake various Social initiatives

Apart from the annual fests, TSAP has celebrations for festivals, national leaders, architects and likewise. The institute has won various trophies for participating in the National Association of Students of Architecture competition.

involving Mentoring, Social Responsibility, Swachhata and Care for the Environment. “The students’ body has been actively engaged in the activities of the neighbourhood and beyond as a continuous endeavour. The Institute ensures learning’s from such engagements groom the emerging professionals with empathy and the ability to converse effectively with diverse segments of the social structure,” explains Mr Karan Singh.

TSAP has recently formed Institutional Clubs to promote hobbies and create a social network amongst the student community. The activities are flexibly planned by each club, and the institute supports them by providing the required infrastructural support and logistics.

“The Institute has initiated a Students Chapter of the Indian Green Building Council to provide a direct exchange platform between the students and industry experts. The Students are engaged in outreach activities with the team of IGBC,” adds Mr Karan Singh. Besides, TSAP conducts annual tours for every batch to a specific rich venue. The students have travelled to more than 12 Indian and 6 international cities. “The practice has greatly benefitted the students of the Institute in gaining deeper insights while adding to the enrichment in the understanding,” pinpoints Mr Karan Singh.

Where the Future is Bright

Today, TSAP is actively working on consolidating the existing program as a robust base for launching several marketready certification programs. Mr Karan Singh explains, “The Institute has identified gaps in the Institute-Industry expectations, that cannot be completely filled within

the curricular activities of the prescribed curriculum. However, TSAP covers this gap through flexibility in the system and additional certificate courses offered within the curricular structure.”

There is a growing demand for Industry ready professionals that can take up the challenges of the Industry backed by thorough market knowledge, acquired proficiency and skill sets that are of certified nature. TSAP collaborates with established professional bodies, international certification authorities and institutions of excellence to create shortterm, intense market-ready programs that are clubbed with industry immersions that offer its learners the opportunity of field experience while developing core competencies. “The strengthening of institutional networks based on curricular and co-curricular collaborations is the area that TSAP is aggressively working to intensify its role as the leaders in providing quality education,” concludes Mr Karan Singh.

Website: https://iilm.edu.in/law/

Location: Gurugram, Haryana

About the Institute: Located at the heart of Gurugram, in close proximity to corporate houses, renowned law firms and the Courts, IILM Law prepares students for their career as a successful lawyer, judge or legal professional.

Website: https://design.jklu.edu.in/

Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan

About the Institute:

The curriculum of the Institute of Design, JK Lakshmipat University draws from the world’s leading design schools and programmes to break boundaries and equip you with the tools, skills, and mindset necessary for success.

Prof (Dr) Asha Verma

Prof. A Balasubramaniam Pro Vice-Chancellor & Dean, IILM Law School Director, Institute of Design, JK Lakshmipat University

Website: https://www.jaipuria.ac.in/

Location: Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh

About the Institute: Jaipuria Institutes of Management is one of the top-ranked b-school in India, offering AICTE-approved PGDM programmes at four world-class campuses in Lucknow, Noida, Jaipur and Indore.

Website: https://www.ajmalfoundation.com/

Location: Hojai, Assam

About the Institute: Ajmal Foundation is a non-governmental organization established in 2005 in the Hojai district of Assam, India, that works for social services, including education, health, employment, environment, women empowerment[1] & poverty management.

Website: https://www.lpu.in/

Location: Phagwara, Punjab

About the Institute: LPU offers UG, PG, diploma, PhD, and other courses to students across 21 disciplines, namely Engineering, Management, and others. LPU Punjab offers courses in full-time and part-time modes.

Website: https://mitwpu.edu.in/

Location: Pune, Maharashtra

About the Institute: With a rich legacy of 40 years in fostering world-class academic excellence and over 100,000 alumni across the globe, MIT-WPU is one of the premier institutions of higher learning in India offering Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, and Ph.D. programmes.

Dr. Lovi Raj Gupta

Dr. Milind Pande Pro Vice-Chancellor, Lovely Professional University Pro-Vice Chancellor, MIT World Peace University

Prof. (Dr.) Daviender Narang Director, Jaipuria Institute of Management

Dr. Khasrul Islam Director, Ajmal Foundation

Website: https://nuv.ac.in/

Location: Vadodara, Gujarat

About the Institute: Navrachana University [NUV] was established in 2009 by the Navrachana Education Society (NES) under the Gujarat Private Universities Act. The university offers its students various undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.

Vice Chancellor, Jaypee University of

Information Technology

Website: https://www.jiit.ac.in/

Location: Waknaghat, Himachal Pradesh

About the Institute: Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida was established in the year 2001 and has been declared as a “Deemed to be University” under Section 3 of UGC Act 1956 in the year 2004. JIIT has been constantly ranked amongst the top engineering Institutes in Delhi NCR.

Sandra Agnes D’Souza

Director – South, JD Institute of Fashion Technology

Website: https://www.jdinstitute.edu.in/

Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka

About the Institute: Established in 1988, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, the multiple award-winning Design Institute with 38+ learning centers across India, is nurturing masterminds from all over India to translate their dreams into success.

Dr. Vijay Dyandeo Patil

Chancellor,

DY Patil University

Website: http://www.dypatil.edu/

Location: Pune, Maharashtra

About the Institute: DYPU offers seventy-five programs offering graduate and postgraduate courses. The curriculum designing and development is undertaken by an in-depth analysis of the requirements of industry which has a bearing on employability.

Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Kumar Sharma

Prof Pratyush Shankar Provost, Navrachana University

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Prof. (Dr) Asha Verma

Pro Vice-Chancellor & Dean, IILM Law School

Leading with Passion, Purpose & Principles

Prof (Dr) Asha Verma is a seasoned professional with 20 years of work experience in Academic Administration, Educational Leadership, and holistic development of empowered personalities. She is the Pro Vice-Chancellor of IILM University and Dean of Law School. Her core expertise lies in human rights, environmental law, the transfer of property act, professional ethics, research methodology, the law of contract, labour laws, and constitutional law. She is also a guest speaker regularly invited to deliver insightful lecture sessions in numerous seminars, conferences etc.

But what truly makes Dr Asha a successful change-maker and a woman leader are her distinct qualities of persuasiveness, entrepreneurial skills, resilience, and innovativeness. She is a

Prof. (Dr) Asha Verma Pro Vice-Chancellor & Dean, IILM Law School

The simple motto of my life is to take life as it comes, and here I am, cheering to this beautiful life with a broad smile and a contended heart

As the Pro Vice-Chancellor of IILM and Dean of Law School, Dr Asha has always encouraged and motivated her faculty and students to accomplish their goals through persistent efforts and sincerity

woman of substance who believes in recreating herself for a meaningful and bright tomorrow and never fails to transcend boundaries to leave a legacy behind.

Lessons that Helped Shape into a Dynamic Leader

As an army child, Dr Asha did her schooling in various parts of the country. After completing her 12th, she got accepted into Kurukshetra University and preferred staying in a girls’ hostel to ensure stability in pursuing her higher education. In fact, Dr Asha’s father wanted her

to accomplish the study of Law, as opposed to her relatives, who were not in favour of the same as pursuing law was considered a wrong career choice for girls during those days. This, however, did not deter her spirits. She even got selected for MA (English), but courageous and determined that she was, her first and foremost preference remained LLB.

Talking about Dr Asha’s personality, she has always been an extrovert throughout her life, given her army background. She learned swimming, horse riding, and driving from an early age, which always kept her ahead of her generation. She also

never hesitated to voice her opinions, follow her dreams, and chase her passion. The strong ethical values inculcated by her parents in her and diverse life experiences have made Dr Asha the dynamic leader she is today.

IILM Law School: Continuing the Legacy of Excellence

Established in 2019, IILM Law School is one of India’s premier law schools offering an unmatched environment of excellence, a flourishing intellectual life, and an abundance of opportunities to engage with the law. With almost 50 courses taught by renowned faculty and a thriving network of law firms and intellectual centres, IILM Law School provides rich and challenging ways to gain the skills necessary to impact the world.

As an experienced leader, Dr Asha would like to explore new dimensions of legal education and research and enhance the current education system’s scope by using modern teaching pedagogy and improvising the curriculum to match the updated trends

Roles and Responsibilities

Dr Asha’s roles and responsibilities as a Pro Vice-Chancellor of IILM and Dean of Law School include administrative management, developing strategic initiatives for the University & Law School’s progress, and participating in long-term planning and policy decisions pertaining to the university and the all-round development of the students.

“It is my persistent endeavour to focus on curriculum development, institutional assessment and improvement, faculty development and appraisals and fostering a congenial atmosphere for academic development and skill enhancement,” shares Dr Asha. “I also plan to use my experience for the optimum development of IILM University as a world-class institute by initiating progressive curriculum development evolving excellent academic planning for the all-round development of empowered personalities.”

Guiding Principles behind a Successful Career

Since the beginning of her career, Dr Asha has been guided by two cardinal principles; firstly, not compromising her morals/ethics/ professional ethics, and secondly, continuing to work hard with sincerity and dedication combating every challenge that had and continues to come her way. She bestows credit upon God’s blessings that she never faced any struggles in her personal life or professional career issues. “The simple motto of my life is to take life as it comes, and here I am, cheering to this beautiful life with a broad smile and a contended heart,” mentions Dr Asha.

Inspiring Others and Making a Positive Impact

As the Pro Vice-Chancellor of IILM and Dean of Law School, Dr Asha has always encouraged and motivated her faculty and students to accomplish their goals through persistent efforts and sincerity. Her strategies, mission, and vision for the law school have positively benefited the Institution and the benchmarks set by her favour building a positive mindset, updated knowledge, and enhanced skills.

Furthermore, as a catalyst, Dr Asha’s leadership has unleashed energy throughout the educational system eliminating roadblocks that could prevent the transformation of ideas into reality; fostering connections across the organisation; helping people connect what they’re working on, to uphold the organisation’s vision and mission and to encourage an inclusive and welcoming environment of wholeness, where people can bring their authentic selves to work in energising and sustainable ways.

Father as a Role Model

Dr Asha’s father has been her role model in life. He taught her the value of education with two basic mantras; never compromise her personal or professional ethics and always believe in hard work, as there are no shortcuts to success.

“Whatever I have achieved today is because of his guidance and my persistent and sincere efforts,” shares Dr Asha. “My determination defines me, and my desire to be a face in the crowd compels me to strive for excellence and to be better each day.”

Women Still a Minority in Leadership Positions

According to Dr Asha, women in leadership roles are still a minority in India, resulting in inequality in management roles. However, despite women making steady progress in various domains, it has been observed that the number of women representing Indian Institutions and Universities as Vice Chancellor, Dean, Director etc., is significantly low. So, women still have a long way to go in accomplishing leadership

positions. Societal, organisational, and individual factors have accounted for women remaining a minority in leadership positions in the country. Therefore, to break these barriers, policymakers, administrators, and leaders must take steps to increase the number of Indian women in leadership roles by creating avenues for recruiting women employees in managerial positions, providing adequate training to women to enhance their skills for leadership positions, to encourage women-friendly culture and flexible

working schedules, providing equal opportunity to rule out gender disparity and policy changes to promote exclusive women leadership.

Keeping Up with the Latest Trends in Education

Since childhood, Dr Asha’s father inculcated the habit of reading the newspaper daily in her. This habit has continued to date and helps her to stay updated with the current trends. She has numerous online subscriptions to legal

information portals to keep her apprised of legal issues. She also attends conferences/seminars/ webinars/symposiums etc., based on ongoing problems and trends. Moreover, her habit of reading textbooks, fiction, autobiographies, etc., magnifies her understanding.

A Day in the Life of an Educational Leader

Dr Asha’s day at work begins with brief meetings with her Law Team and University staff, followed

Established in 2019, IILM Law School is one of India’s premier law schools offering an unmatched environment of excellence, a flourishing intellectual life, and an abundance of opportunities to engage with the law

by many academics, co-curricular activities, etc., that keep her busy throughout the day. As a Dean, she also patiently addresses any concerns/grievances of the students, staff, and faculties each day.

There are times when Dr Asha faces challenges but always tries to keep herself calm and focused amidst them. If she experiences surmounting pressure during stressful challenges, one significant thought she keeps in mind is to foster and maintain mutual respect and understanding within her team and team members. This allows her to transform her emotions into becoming more complacent and understanding. “I am an ardent follower of Osho, so meditation is a part of my life and the solution to sort out stress and anxiety and keep myself grounded and composed,” reveals Dr Asha. Likewise, spending time with her family, cooking, gardening, and travelling helps her to unwind from work.

Reforms Needed in the Education System

As an experienced leader, Dr Asha would like to explore new dimensions of legal education and research and enhance the current education system’s scope by using modern teaching pedagogy and improvising the curriculum to match the updated trends. She would also like to change the current education system by focusing extensively on better standards, more accountability, the autonomous structure of the institution, parent involvement, periodic assessments, better incentives for faculty, and education partnership.

Work in Progress

Currently, Dr Asha is working on expanding the horizon of IILM Gurugram. She also intends to

One of Dr Asha’s biggest aspirations is to make IILM Law School one of the most sought-after legal institutions in India in terms of quality education, research-based education, and disciplined and skilled students with clear & focused vision

focus on extensive research projects, developing the curriculum, and inviting an eminent range of experts for sessions on emerging areas of law, such as legislators, policymakers, judges, international agencies, CEOs, social activists, legal scholars, industry, and policy specialists, etc. for workshops, symposia, and seminars to enrich the intellectual life of the IILM community and to inculcate ethical, cultural, and legal values for holistic development.

Leading Efforts Towards Higher Goals

One of Dr Asha’s biggest aspirations is to make IILM Law School one of the most sought-after legal institutions in India in terms of quality education, research-based education, and disciplined and skilled students with clear & focused vision. “I am confident that the product of this prestigious Institution is bound to make a mark in life as a responsible citizen of the country and a great human being,” asserts Dr Asha.

Furthermore, Dr Asha endeavours to make IILM University a centre of quality education guided by upcoming trends. One of the

initiatives she aims to take in this direction is to structure the university’s educational program and policies to achieve core competencies in various disciplines and build a highly skilled human resource for the country. Dr Asha also plans to ensure that her goals are specific, achievable, measurable and time-limited. Likewise, she aims to set up new paradigms shifting the focus to research-based education and transforming the university into a centre of knowledge, a facilitator of innovative and creative instincts, a promoter of entrepreneurial talent, and a knowledge pioneer promoting intellectual leadership.

Pearls of Wisdom for Aspiring Female Leaders

Dr Asha advises aspiring women leaders to keep articulating their vision, believe in their potential, learn to say ‘No’ where required, set goals, and make sure they want to go that extra mile to become successful leaders. She concludes, “It takes hard work, time, tenacity, networking alliance building, optimism, humility, ambition and daring to achieve your goals.’’

It Is Time To Rethink

The industrial revolution currently sweeping the globe is changing things exponentially and impacting every industry. We are extending industry 4.0 to 5.0 and moving from Web 2.0 to 3.0. Through seamless access to digital technologies enabled by AI, metaverse, and edge computing, Web 3.0 developed upon the critical ideals of decentralization, openness, and better user utility.

Industry 4.0 focuses on digitalization and AIdriven technologies to boost production flexibility and efficiency; extending this to social fairness and sustainability is the goal of industry 5.0.

This revolution differs from the previous in terms of speed, extent, and influence. A convergence of technologies that influences every aspect of how we work and live during the digital revolution presents challenges and opportunities.

Dr. Nitin Patwa, Deputy Director (Undergraduate Program & Director of Simulations), SP Jain School of Global Management, Dubai

Dr. Nitin Patwa is deputy director of the undergraduate program and director of simulations at SP Jain School of Global Management in Dubai, which offers a unique try city undergraduate program in Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, and Sydney.

A convergence of technologies that influences every aspect of how we work and live during the digital revolution presents challenges and opportunities

The demand for some technological talents, such as applied technology, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, is rising, on the other hand. The internet of things, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and other ICTs are driving this convergence, which is expected to considerably impact the availability of employment and the workforce’s skill set.

These changes may cause business schools and management institutes to reconsider how we approach business education. For example, in addition to specific commercial specializations, there should be an increasing focus on competencies and applied technologies.

Our formal education-based skills are currently becoming obsolete. Corporate training and education initiatives are falling behind and urgently need to change due to how swiftly

technology develops. To enable uniform training across all business sectors, especially management and leadership the business schools should emphasize education in fields like analytics, data communication, artificial intelligence (AI) as augmented working, user experience design, user interface design, and cyber security skills; more said, data security, in addition to the traditional core curriculum of business pedagogy. Companies are searching for someone who can connect technology with business and understand it from a technical perspective to use technology to benefit businesses.

It will be crucial for gauging customer service because consumers are becoming more vital to the economy. Given the speed at which innovation and disruption occur, new kinds of cooperation are necessary in a world of consumer experiences and data-based services. The financial services sector is poised for a significant technological upheaval due to a confluence of trends and events. Financial institutions enthusiastically embrace the digital economy, and banks have redoubled their efforts to promote technologically innovative products and services and asset performance through analytics.

Business schools must rethink how they educate and accelerate their participants’ careers in a digital-first, tech-savvy world due to the advent of global platforms and other new business models that necessitate rethinking organizational structures in terms of people, culture, and organizational forms. Therefore, business schools must foster an environment, adapt, and give a chance for participants to learn the technological know-how and business attitudes needed to continue offering top-notch customer service and succeed in the future workplace.

Companies are searching for someone who can connect technology with business and understand it from a technical perspective to use technology to benefit businesses

of

Building Remarkable Things from Ground Zero P

rof. A Balasubramaniam, Director of the Institute of Design, JK Lakshmipat University, Jaipur is also the founder of January Design, a consultancy that works mainly with marginal crafts, grass-root innovations, and the MSME sectors of the industry. He is an early graduate of NID, Ahmedabad, India. Before his stint as the Director of the Institute of Design, he has taken leadership roles as co-ordinator for setting up PRIDE (a design excellence division at NSIC); he has headed the Fair-trade division of Oxfam, Great Britain in India; and has also led a design team for bamboo design projects in the North East for UNDP, besides setting up IILM School of Design. He has been a consultant to NIIT for Digital Design programmes and has also worked with grass-root innovators with the National Innovation Foundation.

Prof. A Balasubramaniam Director, Institute

Design, JK Lakshmipat University

Our students are taught by faculty who are graduates from prestigious institutions like NID, IIT, and IDC, Bombay. We carefully choose faculty who bring a certain gravitas to our team

Prof. A Balasubramaniam Director, Institute of Design, JK Lakshmipat University

On multiple occasions, he has been a jury member in evaluating projects at major design institutes across the country: NID, NIFT, School of Planning & Architecture, New Delhi, IICD, Jaipur, KSID, Kollam, Pearl Academy, and IILM Gurgaon. He has also been a member of the academic board for Industrial Design at Pearl Academy, SPA New Delhi, and Nirma University. An avid writer on the subject of Design in India, he regularly writes on India-centric design issues

in the Economic Times, Businessworld, and other design publications. He also writes a popular blog called ‘Design thoughts’.

Serving with Pride and Leading with Confidence

After completing his graduation project in December 1985, Prof. Balasubramaniam spent most of his time making cold calls to potential clients, seeking new projects and in the process

With the world evolving quickly, JKLU strives to remain in sync with this process of constant change and transformation to make their students job-ready and future-ready by empowering them with newage life skills

educating them about the benefits of Design. There were no design jobs, hence no campus placements. In fact, the awareness of design was also very low. “I was a consultant to industries like USHA, Eicher, Oxfam, Coca-Cola, Eveready, and many more. I worked with grassroots innovators, set up a design facility called PRIDE for small industries, started new courses as a visiting faculty, worked on design assignments, and worked on a Digital design program,” Prof. Balasubramaniam shares.

He had the privilege of teaching and being a jury member at all the prestigious design institutes like NID Ahmedabad, NID Vijayawada, NID Kurukshetra NIFT Delhi, School of Planning & Architecture’s Industrial Design program, Srishti School of Art, Design & Technology, Pearl Academy, Sushant School of Design, Kerala State Institute of Design, etc. Prof. Balasubramaniam says, “I was invited to set up a design program at IILM Gurgaon, and we were then, one of the first to set up an institute of design in the private sector.”

Five years ago, he received an offer from JK Lakshmipat University Jaipur, where he was invited to set up a new design institute from scratch. It was a challenging task. Prof. Balasubramaniam shares, “I had a good support from our leadership. I was given a free hand in getting the right faculty.

Infrastructure is easy to build but I had to find good faculty members and ask them to come to Jaipur. The initial team had to be on the same wavelength. The next challenge was to get good students.”

Institute of Design, JKLU started with three unique programs and attracted the correct kind of faculty and students. The first batch had students from Jaipur, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kota, Rajnandgaon, Kalyani, Gurgaon, Indore, and Agra. Students now are coming from all over the country. Currently, the Institute of Design has students from 66 different towns in India, that is at least one from 20 states.

Launched in 2019, the Institute of Design set up benchmarks in design education, and the admission was based on an entrance test and a portfolio review. Students were admitted to the common foundation program with a choice of specialization

Founded in 2011, JK Lakshmipat is an academic institution known for intellectual honesty and commitment to excellence

after the end of the first year. “This helps the student explore the foundation program thoroughly. In the first year, we had only three programs. Our menu of programs was very different. We introduced a new program called Interdisciplinary Design, meant for creating a T-shaped individual who had exposure to domains across the breadth of design,” explains Prof. Balasubramaniam. Though the curriculum is designed to get the most out of the

students, the institute works with industry experts, consulting with them to develop a brand-new course called Integrated Communication design. Prof. Balasubramaniam and his team have shot down traditional graphic courses and introduced Data-led courses and videos and digital media that were more contemporary. There is also Interaction Design that deals with human-centric interactions on devices and apps.

The Legacy of JK Lakshmipat University, Jaipur

Founded in 2011, JK Lakshmipat is an academic institution known for intellectual honesty and commitment to excellence. Prof. Balasubramaniam shares, “Our core and advanced study programs in Engineering, Management, and Design remain studentcentric to allow seamless progression to a skilloriented future.” JKLU envisions being one of India’s most innovative higher education institutions. The university believes learning is a continuous process and academic excellence is a way of life. With the world evolving quickly, JKLU strives to remain in sync with this process of constant change and transformation to make their students job-ready and future-ready by empowering them with new-age life skills.

JKLU’s Institute of Design stands out from other design schools in various ways. Prof. Balasubramaniam says, “We chose programs that were contemporary and in line with the current era. We were sure that we did not want to include Fashion Design, Interior Design, Graphic Design, etc., Instead, we began with Interaction Design, Interdisciplinary Design, and Product Design.” Institute of Design also wanted to develop a new program that will integrate analogue with digital for the current courses. In 2020, they launched Integrated Communication Design.

On the other side, JKLU introduced technology courses like Coding, the Internet of Things (IoT), other tech courses, and courses on presentation, entrepreneurship, and similar management courses for their design students. Besides, JKLU students also go through soft skills and introductory courses like Communication and Critical thinking. This gives them an advantage over others. Adding to

JKLU constantly seeks new ideas to make campus life, academic experiences, and the transition to students’ chosen career extraordinary and unique

these, Prof. Balasubramaniam says, “Our students are taught by faculty who are graduates from prestigious institutions like NID, IIT, and IDC, Bombay. We carefully choose faculty who bring a certain gravitas to our team.”

Delivering Quality Education

JKLU’s Institute of Design focuses on doing things relevant to the students. Prof. Balasubramaniam says, “We created a new culture on campus, calling each other by their first names like we used to do at NID. Our students call all faculty, including me, by their first names. This brings us closer, and we have created a sense of belongingness.” The institute also prints a newsletter, DESIGNEWS, that showcases their student’s work and is distributed all over. This gives their students a sense of achievement. Prof. Balasubramaniam has been an institution creator. He revels in creating something from scratch. “Someone once remarked that I have a knack for producing something remarkable from nothing, ground zero,” he adds.

Prof. Balasubramaniam is usually approached by both faculty and students with various queries. “My typical day would involve meeting and sorting out faculty and student issues. There is no external pressure, only self-induced ones. I am constantly checking to see if we are marching toward excellence or not,” he shares. When unplugged, he is lost in the world of cinemas and TV series on Netflix. He also invests his time in books, hoping to read them all at a good pace as before. “I get peace from being with a family with two brilliant daughters and a doting wife. They are my source of constant encouragement and excitement,” he shares.

The Future

Institute of Design has big plans. Post-pandemic, they are tying up with foreign universities for student and faculty exchange, resulting in more exciting programs. “I am currently working on a course for design faculty development. I am also the President of ADI, the Association of Designers of India. I am, therefore, interested in working with the government on the National Design Policy 2.0,” Prof. Balasubramaniam concludes.

PERSPECTIVE

How to Reinvent Your Career Through a Degree in Gemmology

Apoorva Deshingkar, Senior Director – Market Development and Education, GIA India

Finding happiness in what one does is something that everyone wants. As nice as it sounds, it can be challenging to attain. In fact, according to the Japanese philosophy “Ikigai,” it is the key to living a healthy and long life; you can also think of it as the thing that makes you get out of bed. The Japanese concept of “Ikigai” is the theme of a bestselling book of the same title, which literally means doing what you love.

The best way to achieve this is to do what makes you happy and turn your passion into your profession. If gems and jewellery are your

passion, then you can explore a sparkling career specialising in gemstones.

The gem and jewellery industry represents one of the fastest growing industries globally. India is one of the biggest gem and jewellery manufacturing hubs in the world. Surat and Jaipur are known for the cutting and polishing of over a hundred species of coloured gemstones (precious and semi-precious).

Being a specialised field, a formal education in gemmology is encouraged for exploring the many career paths that the world of gem and jewellery offers.

By taking a specialised course in gemmology, you can explore a career in manufacturing, trading, sales, appraising, grading, etc., where an understanding of the complex nature of gemstones is necessary

Apoorva Deshingkar is a resultdriven professional with a keen eye for process and compliance. He has a firm grounding in Sales, Account Management, Business Development, with a flair for supporting on-ground Sales activities with traditional Marketing and Digital campaigns. He possesses understanding of General Management and core Leadership skills in addition to specific transferable competencies like adaptability, ability to think strategically in ambiguity, beginning to add value quickly and management of change.

Gemmology is the study of gemstones. This one-of-a -kind study entails more than just identifying and grading gemstones. By taking a specialised course in gemmology, you can explore a career in manufacturing, trading, sales, appraising, grading, etc., where an understanding of the complex nature of gemstones is necessary.

Ways to find your passion in the world of gem and jewellery

Acquire skills and technical knowledge: As a gemmologist, there is a need to identify gemstones accurately. Due to the increase in treatments and the influx of new gem materials in the market, this has become more important now than ever before. Securing a credential in gemmology from a reputed institute such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) can open doors to diverse job opportunities like those of a buyer, trader, or even a laboratory and research professional. Gemstone manufacturers, jewellers, jewellery retail chains and gemmological laboratories worldwide continuously seek qualified talent for their businesses. All of these career paths require an eye for detail, dedication to quality and a globally-recognised credential from a reputed gemmological institute.

Choose the right course: Gemmology is a vast field; so consult career counsellors or reach out to any internationally-reputed gemmological institute. If you’re interested in diamonds, you may sign up for a course that exposes you to diamonds and helps you understand how to identify treatments, simulants and laboratory-grown diamonds. Look for a programme that provides both technical concepts and hands-on training.

If you are interested in coloured stones, a programme that exposes you to a variety of gemstones is very important. Premier institutes like GIA offer GIA Graduate Coloured Stones Diploma Program – a 20-week immersive programme that provides comprehensive knowledge of coloured stones that is needed to succeed anywhere in the jewellery business. The knowledge gained during the programme brings students - with and without a family background in the gem and jewellery industry - to the same level.

Before enrolling in a gemmology programme, research about the institute and see its reviews on social media sites. Enquire if the institute provides a well-rounded education – for example, does it invite industry leaders to share their experiences and knowledge at guest sessions and does it offer networking opportunities at industry events and trade shows? All these aspects add up to give you the best learning experience and increase your chances of having a successful career in the gem and jewellery industry.

Follow your interest: Finally, interest plays an important role in your success. If you are drawn to the sparkle of gems and jewellery, there are plenty of opportunities in this sector in India.

Promising Career in Gemmology

Gemmology is a highly specialised field. If you feel that the glittering world of gems and jewellery beckons you, then it is never too late to enrol yourself into a gemmology course and pursue a career that makes you truly happy.

Since most of us spend a great deal of our lives working, it is inevitable that work plays a great role in shaping our happiness. Choosing a career that truly fulfils you is the first step toward living your best life.

Dr. Khasrul Islam Director, Ajmal Foundation

Fashioning A New Paradigm for Education to Empower the Underprivileged

Dr. Khasrul Islam is an inspiring educational leader, strategist, vision creator and executor, and an impassioned social activist. As the Director of Ajmal Foundation, he is instrumental in establishing various educational institutions in the Indian state of Assam, thereby facilitating the fulfilment of the dreams of a family of visionary philanthropists who have striven to establish education as the foundational pillar of social transformation and holistic progress. His commitment, passion and desire for excellence and innovation have taken the Ajmal foundation to where it is today - an iconic

Dr. Khasrul Islam has contributed immensely to the nation-building task through the foundation, bringing his vast experience in building and nurturing partnerships with government, international and national agencies, private organisations and other NGOs

Dr. Khasrul Islam Director, Ajmal Foundation

organisation synonymous with the aspirations of thousands of ambitious students, especially from the marginalised and underprivileged sections of society. Dr. Islam is truly an exemplar of leadership and mentoring. He has succeeded in giving a massive fillip to the multifarious activities of the Foundation over nearly two decades. With a range of experience

in the social service field spanning humanitarian and long-term social development programmes, Dr. Islam’s strategic planning, programme designing, organisational governance, and project management abilities have resulted in placing Ajmal Foundation as one of the most vibrant and premiere NGOs of Assam today. Dr. Islam has contributed immensely to the nation-

Dr. Islam established as many as 18 vocational institutes in Assam and Meghalaya, providing Skill Development and Employment to unemployed youths

building task through the foundation, bringing his vast experience in building and nurturing partnerships with government, international and national agencies, private organisations and other NGOs. With his pleasing, energetic and enthusiastic personality, he has played a seminal role in the overall growth of the Ajmal Foundation since the beginning.

Education and Career Trajectory

Khasrul Islam had his early schooling at his village school in Mullaganj and graduated in Economics with a Major in 1995 from Karimganj College. He did his Masters in Economics from Assam Central University, Silchar and obtained his B.Ed in 2000.

Being the eldest of seven siblings, six brothers and one sister, he faced the trials and tribulations

Dr. Islam has led the team to train 19,000 plus youths in different trades of skill development, and more than 15,000 candidates have found placement in reputed companies across the country and abroad

of supporting his family. He didn’t hesitate to work in the paddy fields and endured those days when he had to rush to the examination hall directly from the paddy fields during his graduation. Studying under the dim candlelight,

as there was no electricity and tutoring some village students at a nominal fee, he struggled to keep his dream of pursuing higher studies alive. Despite the circumstances, Dr. Islam’s resolve to do something more satisfying

and worthwhile refused to be doused by the adversities. His belief that “No lamp can burn another lamp unless it continues to burn its own flame” gave him the motivation and urge to do something worthwhile.

Dr. Islam started his career as a teacher in a school at Patherkandi in the Karimganj district of Assam. He later joined Patharkandi College as a part-time faculty in Economics in 1998-99. Concurrently, to create Educational awareness in the locality, Dr. Islam, along with some likeminded youths of the community, established a society by the name “Mullaganj Studies and Cultural Centre” in the year 1998 and organised several educational activities like seminars,

quiz competitions, etc. apart from supporting the students financially in a limited way. Gradually, he and his close friends established the first Educational Institute “AMC Model Junior College” at Mullaganj in the Karimganj district of Assam in the year 2000, followed by another school named “Kishore Vikash Higher Secondary School, Mullaganj” in the same year.

A career in the Ajmal Group and Educational Endeavours

In 2001, Dr. Islam joined Ajmal in Mumbai and went to Dubai for advanced corporate training. Upon his return in 2005, Dr. Islam was in charge of the Ajmal foundation, the newly formed

CSR wing of the Ajmal Group. His corporate training in Dubai and aligning his vision with the two guiding trustees of the Ajmal Foundation, namely Mr. Badruddin Ajmal and Mr. Sirajuddin Ajmal, charted the course of his future programmes and opened up a new vista of

growth for the Ajmal Foundation. “Education is the fulcrum on which the entire edifice of social progress hinges”, believes Dr. Islam, and he set out to direct the attention and efforts of the Ajmal foundation towards education in all its various forms. Thus, began the concept of the Ajmal

group of Colleges. Providing modern and quality education in far-flung areas to underprivileged and marginalised sections became the primary focus. With welcome support from the local population and bold initiatives by Ajmal Foundations under the leadership of Dr. Islam, colleges came up thick and fast in different parts of Assam and in less than ten years, 32 institutions sprang up

to cater to the needs of higher education among the deprived and the underprivileged. The Maryam Ajmal Women’s College of Science & Technology to impart science education to girls from the minority and deprived sections of society, The Nazir Ajmal Memorial College of Education (B.Ed College) to produce trained teachers for schools, The Ajmal Law College, The Ajmal Super Forty, an integrated intensive coaching institute at +2 level and The Ajmal I.A.S. Academy are among the many institutions that flourished under the Ajmal Foundation. The Ajmal Super Forty has created a sensation in Assam because of its resounding success in the All India NEET and JEE examinations. In the last three years, about 500 students qualified for NEET examinations, and Ajmal Super 40 is now the state’s most sought-after institution for medical and engineering aspirants. The Ajmal IAS Academy also performed brilliantly when 15 students qualified in the Assam Public Service Commission examinations last year. The B.Ed and Law College students have excelled in the respective university examinations and have secured top ranks in successive years. The Maryam Ajmal Women’s College of Science and Ajmal colleges in different parts of Assam have also impressed with their results.

Earlier, as convenor of the Empowered Committee of the Markaz Group of Schools, he had played a significant role in streamlining the Markaz Group of Schools, 17 in total at different corners of Assam and brought the schools under one umbrella. Dr. Islam has over 20 years of experience in social services programmes, spanning humanitarian and longterm social development programmes in diverse socio-cultural environments.

Dr. Islam has undergone training at professional institutes like British Institute

Mumbai, Indo- American Institute Mumbai, Indian Association of Life Skill Education, Chennai and Xavier’s Institute of Management on Business Management, and he uses his training and experience to energise the teachers, mentors, students and staff in the Ajmal institutions

Nurturing Talents and Facilitating Opportunities for the Poor and Deprived

There are innumerable instances of meritorious students from poor families abandoning studies for lack of money and resources. Dr. Islam has an eye for those students, and Ajmal Foundation supports such brilliant and needy students by providing scholarships and bearing the entire cost of their studies in the various Ajmal institutions and other institutions of their choice. The Ajmal Modern Residential School in Bhelowguri near Daboka in Assam is a shining example. Children orphaned by natural disasters or other causes and rendered homeless and coerced by circumstances into child labour or vagrancy or an uncertain

future of grinding poverty and illiteracy have been taken care of and are being provided modern education in the nurturing ambience of AMRS and metamorphosis of these children into educated and productive citizens is taking place.

Dr. Islam also led the Ajmal National Rural Education Movement to raise the educational standards of Rural Assam, under which monthly remuneration is provided to the school teachers and limited grants to augment infrastructure are also made available to institutions. Dr. Islam established as many as 18 vocational institutes in Assam and Meghalaya, providing Skill Development and Employment to unemployed youths. Under his support and guidance, many poor

Being the head of a prominent NGO engaged in multifarious welfare activities, Dr. Islam has the charm and grace to connect with and maintain cordial relationships with important personalities and organisations

and meritorious students are now leading successful professional lives as engineers, civil servants and entrepreneurs. Under his supervision, leadership and excellent networking, the Team of Ajmal Foundation implemented several Skill Development Programs successfully under the Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, and Ministry of Human Resource Development of the Government of India and also under National Children’s Fund, New Delhi, Directorate of Employment and Craftsmanship, Govt. Of Meghalaya, Guwahati Municipal Corporation, etc. Until now, Dr. Islam has led the team to train 19,000 plus youths in different trades of skill development, and more than 15,000 candidates have found placement in reputed companies across the country and abroad.

Mentoring, Counselling and Motivational interests

Dr Khasrul Islam considers mentoring a vital aspect of a student’s development. Personal care

and efficient mentoring by the faculty members is a strong features of Ajmal institutions. Dr. Islam leaves no stone unturned to see to it that problems and difficulties concerning the students’ personal, familial, emotional and psychological aspects are addressed promptly. Dr. Islam has undergone training at professional institutes like British Institute Mumbai, Indo- American Institute Mumbai, Indian Association of Life Skill Education, Chennai and Xavier’s Institute of Management on Business Management, and he uses his training and experience to energise the teachers, mentors, students and staff in the Ajmal institutions. Apart from this, Dr. Islam has worked in collaboration with many reputed institutions like MFERD Hyderabad, MS Group, Hyderabad, Shaheen Group of Institutions, Karnataka, Rahmani 30, Patna, Al Ameen Academy, Kolkata, Safa Group of Institutions, Mumbai, Cresent School Chennai, Millat Group Schools, Mumbai. He takes up motivational sessions with the students and teachers periodically. He has conducted innumerable motivational sessions for students and teachers training programs that touched the lives of more than 50,000 students and 5000 teachers. Personality Development is his forte, and Dr. Islam stresses this aspect. One of his earlier assignments at Ajmal Foundation was to groom the fresh recruits of Ajmal for their Indian as well as overseas showrooms under a project called ‘Sales Orientation Program’. He rendered his services to Ajmal Sales Orientation Program as the Personality Development Trainer. He became an integral part of the program, which produced several trained professionals working in different parts of the globe as Managers of Business firms and salesmen. He also conducted several motivational sessions for students and

teachers training programs that touched the lives of more than 50,000 students and 5000 teachers. Famous motivational speakers like Mr. Munawar Zama are also invited for extended sessions with students regularly in various Ajmal institutions. Dr. Islam also arranged to get published a book on Career Options in collaboration with a

prominent Career Counsellor to facilitate easy career choices for young students.

A Day in the Life of the Director

Dr. Islam has combined myriad responsibilities and performs them all with equal ease and aplomb. Apart from being an astute and strategic

planner, he is an adept manager. He is a boss and a colleague at the same time. A typical day for him starts with preparing the agenda for the day, which normally consists of checking the emails, responding to them as per priority, addressing participants at meetings or training workshops, visiting different institutions and afternoon

sessions are reserved for feedback from heads of institutions and meeting Heads of Departments and faculty members to discuss future strategy and programmes or sorting out an issue. Handling many institutions and overseeing many activities may seem daunting, but Dr. Islam handles the work pressure with poise and calmness. Dr. Islam is very interested in reading books and active on social media platforms.

The Social Connect

Being the head of a prominent NGO engaged in multifarious welfare activities, Dr. Islam has the charm and grace to connect with and maintain cordial relationships with important personalities and organisations. As such, he shares concerns and participates in projects, programmes, and celebrations organised or sponsored by the District administration, the government and other cultural and literary bodies. Ajmal Foundation, more often than not, takes the lead in socio-cultural and environmental campaigns and programmes. Various activities of the Ajmal foundation and its affiliated institutions are communicated through web portals and various media outlets with whom the Director of Ajmal Foundation maintains a good relationship. With the spirit of serving humanity and being patronised by Ajmal, Dr. Islam and his dynamic team are taking up various schemes and projects in different parts of the country,

serving the downtrodden section of society as a catalytic agent.

Dr. Islam has demonstrated his capabilities in organising mega events to take his organisation closer to the people on the one hand and to connect with the larger world outside. The grand Educational Conclave at Hojai, the “Make Hojai Literate in 100 days”, and the “Convention of American Federation of Muslims of Indian Origin” in 2013 bear witness to his organising skill.

Awards and Accolades

Dr Islam has received many accolades for his commendable works and has been awarded several recognitions for his outstanding contribution to the field of social work and Education by the American Federation of Muslims of Indian Origin (AFMI) in the year 2013 SOCIAL LEADERSHIP

AWARD by MOMEIN, New Delhi in the year 2019, SADHANA AWARD by Hojai Sahitya Sabha in the year 2019. Dr. Islam also received the best NGO Award in Skill Development in India from the Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ASSOCHAM, New Delhi) twice, with a silver trophy in 2015 and 2016 and finally with Gold Trophy in 2018 from the Ministers of the Skill Development, Govt. of India. He was conferred with Doctor Honoris Causa by Ballsbridge University, Dominica, in the year 2018 at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, in recognition of his contribution to the field of education.

Top Ten Indications of a Future University

Dr. Solomon Arulraj David, Associate Professor of Education, The British University in Dubai

Dr. Solomon Arulraj David is an associate professor of education at the British University in Dubai. He is also an honorary visiting fellow at the University of Glasgow, UK, and a visiting research associate at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. He has a doctorate in education from the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium, and other degrees from Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, India. He has been an intern at UNESCO (Paris, France), a trainee at European Commission (Brussels, Belgium), has been a volunteer and consultant to various organizations. His key research interests are comparative international higher education, educational management, and policy. He has been invited as a guest speaker/keynote speaker at various occasions/places. He is also a TEDx speaker. He is a licensed (by CAA-UAE) higher educational institution and program reviewer.

Every industry is under pressure to evolve by meeting emerging demands to be future-ready. Education in the particular higher education sector is under such pressure to be futuristic. Being a futuristic university is a two-way process in that education

transforms the world and the transformation in the world impacts education. As the world is at the threshold of the fourth industrial revolution, we are on the verge of Education 4.0, which is expecting the educational sector to comply with the economic, social, and technological changes

It is argued that universities that are highly performing are not highly participating while universities that are highly participating are less likely to be high performing

that the world goes through. Such macroeconomic and social change demands universities to be future-ready. A future university is future-ready, offering a forward learning curriculum, enabling instructors and learners to meet the needs of tomorrow, embracing innovation, disruption, and being empowered to deal with uncertainties.

global access to higher education is 38% which is expected to increase steadily. Demographic growth, demand for skilled labor, and the social justice agenda have paved way for more justified access for all to quality higher education. The international finance facility for education launched by the United Nations (UN) recently is expected to tackle the global education crisis relating to access and resource. It is argued that universities that are highly performing are not highly participating while universities that are highly participating are less likely to be high performing. Futuristic universities might debunk this myth to evolve as hybrid universities that are both highly participating and performing.

Commitment to Academic Integrity:

Higher education has expanded rapidly in recent decades with a strong private presence and online programs, which involve less credible institutions, individuals, and ideas. In addition, public higher education in many countries as well fails to meet academic standards. Such trends have increased the challenges to establishing and sustaining academic integrity. Futuristic universities would constantly reinvent their commitment to academic integrity underpinned by honesty, trust, and respect as this is the soul of the sector. The role of government, licensing, and regulatory agencies is pivotal to achieving this.

While acknowledging several other factors the following are seemingly the top ten indications of a future university.

Broadly Accessible: Higher education is not a luxury anymore and universities are not exclusive clubs of intellectual elites. The current

Continuous Quality Improvement:

Improving the quality of education is the 4th sustainable development goal (SDG). Futuristic universities are committed to enhancing quality. The rationale of quality assurance is indicated by the emergence of institutional, national, and global quality assurance standards, tools,

The next-generation learning management systems, research software, mobile learning, artificial intelligence, advanced user interfaces, and other emerging tech trends will test universities to raise to the occasion

and agencies. Global university ranking mechanisms along with other quality discourses have disrupted universities to deal with competition, innovation, and transformation. Although the current ranking tools/practices are not perfect they are evolving and will continue to shape quality in higher education as many stakeholders tend to rely on them.

Enhancing Student Experience:

Students are central to education and their overall educational experience is key. Moving from content/teacherfocused education to student cantered approach in education has been remarkable while enhancing the student experience is a priority for futuristic universities. The student experience is enhanced when they are well engaged, involved, rewarded, and allowed to take responsibility for their own learning. Listening to students’ voices and the meaning and full use of their feedback will help universities to serve and empower them.

important global goals. The third mission (other than research and teaching) of the university is knowledge and technology transfer for the benefit of society. It is argued that futuristic universities will help big institutions such as United Nations (UN) to achieve SDGs. The 17 SDGs with 169 targets that 191 UN member states agreed to achieve by 2030. Such big ideas need strong support from all sectors including higher education. Futuristic universities realize and hold their moral duties to help achieve SDGs by researching, teaching SDG-focused issues, and disseminating the findings to society.

International Collaboration:

Forward Learning Curriculum:

The everevolving job market will demand future thinking specializations and a forward learning curriculum. Universities that embrace curricula, courses, programs, and specializations that meet the future demands in the labor market might continue to attract students. The futuristic and forward learning curriculum is frequently updated, and researchfocused, having space for creativity and innovation for both instructors and learners. Universities that are futuristic constantly rethink what they teach and how they design and deliver what they teach.

Helping to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals:

Education particularly higher education plays a pivotal role to achieve

Internationalisation dynamics have rapidly shaped higher education in recent years with increased mobility of staff, students, programs, and branch campuses. Universities and academics who are futuristic indicate a strong interest to partner with other counterparts on mutually interesting research and various other academic activities. Collaborative research seems to be highly funded and cited. Meaningful memorandum of understanding and collaborative activities strengthen ties among futuristic universities. International collaboration among universities brings nations together for a common cause that strengthens bilateral and multilateral responses to global issues.

Innovative Approaches to Teaching and Learning:

As instructional science continues to advance, futuristic universities tend to use a variety of pedagogical and assessment strategies suitable to the nature, scope, and applicability of the subjects, particularly to meet the smart learning environments and the millennial / Gen Z learners.

Future-oriented universities will embrace emerging trends in teaching and learning (active, blended, hybrid learning, flipped classrooms, inquiry/problem-based learning) in order to strengthen the educational experiences of students. Universities that are futuristic continue to rethink how they teach and assess.

Research Intensity: Generating new knowledge is one of the two important roles of universities (the other being disseminating the new knowledge). Futuristic and innovative universities are committed to investing time and resources in significant research that might have a direct impact on society and the economy. Academic research contributes to nearly 30% of research and development globally, which is expected to increase in the near future as many universities tend to invest in research. Globally 25% of elite universities produce 75% of citable documents which is expected to shift given the wide interest among all universities in research.

Technology Integration: Most universities have already begun to actively integrate technology since the pandemic. This trend will be further shaped by the ever and fastchanging technological world. Universities must continue to adapt to such shifts to cope with futuristic technological trends. The nextgeneration learning management systems, research software, mobile learning, artificial intelligence, advanced user interfaces, and other emerging tech trends will test universities to raise to the occasion.

University-Industry Relationship: Industries often consider universities as ivory towers isolated from the rest of the real world to produce knowledge that may or may not have an exchange value at the market. A meaningful university and industry collaboration would benefit economic advancement and for the knowledge economy. Futuristic universities may explore strategic collaboration with the industry for collaborative research, co-patterning, and academic spinoffs. Industry exposure through internship and apprenticeship may as well enhance the employable skills of students. Industry linkage seems to enrich the entrepreneurial side of the university while knowledge generated in universities may foster innovation, and competitiveness of business and ultimately benefit economic and social advancement.

Most universities have adapted to the signs of today and are strategically preparing for a better tomorrow. Such universities tend to survive any disruption while others would cease to exist. Universities in general are tempted to change and adapt, however, a strategic introspection for such transformation is essential as this might possibly derail them from their original vision and mission. Therefore, it is important to question, if the change is purpose-driven or flown with the current. A careful introspection to original vision and values, diligent response to disruptions, and openness for innovation and transformation is crucial to shaping the future university. The future will always be rough and tough and universities that are futuristic will be bold and strong to handle it.

Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Kumar Sharma

Vice Chancellor,

Jaypee University of Information Technology

Grooming Students to Become Skilled Engineers & Ethical Citizens of the Country

Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Kumar Sharma is the Vice Chancellor of the Jaypee University of Information Technology (JUIT), Himachal Pradesh, India. He is a seasoned professional with over three decades of top academic and leadership experience in the education industry. He has handled research projects from various funding agencies, a significant portion of which has been funded by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India.

Additionally, Dr Rajendra has guided several students in their master’s thesis and 22 students in their PhD thesis. His research has been published in numerous peer-reviewed, highimpact factor, national and international journals, including the Journal of Soft Computing, Applied Soft Computing, Neural

Our vision is to become a centre of excellence in the field of IT and related emerging areas in education, training, and research comparable to the best in the world for producing professionals who shall be leaders in innovation, entrepreneurship, creativity, and management

Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Kumar Sharma Vice Chancellor, Jaypee University of Information Technology

The places conducting qualitative and applicable research are very few in our country, and so, I am trying to help my colleagues balance their professional and personal lives to improve the research culture at JUIT

Computing and Applications, and Artificial Intelligence Review. He is also a life member of prestigious societies such as the Indian Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, Punjab Science Congress Association, and Global WordNet Organization, to name a few.

Extensive Professional Experiences that Helped Shape into a Successful Leader

After completing his MSc in Applied Mathematics, MPhil in Computer Applications, and PhD in Mathematics from IIT Roorkee, Dr Rajendra joined HNB Garhwal University as a

Lecturer in Computer Science. He then joined Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology (TIET), Patiala, where he learned much from his peers. He was given numerous roles and responsibilities, including Dean of Academic Affairs, Dean of Faculty Affairs, and many others. In August 2021, he joined JUIT as its Vice-Chancellor.

Looking back at his career pathway, all these previous experiences not only helped Dr Rajendra to attain his current leadership position but are even now helping him to accomplish his everyday responsibilities associated with this role. He also believes that family literacy can change the lives of each family member, a fact that has turned out

true for he himself. Likewise, the lessons of life that he learnt from his parents and teachers helped shape him into a successful educator and a leader. “My father used to tell me that knowledge is the only treasure that increases on sharing, and so, I have been following this policy all my life, and possibly this is one of the reasons why I became a teacher,” states Dr Rajendra.

Jaypee University of Information Technology: Grooming the Future of the World with Education

JUIT is a private university recognised by the state government of Himachal Pradesh, India. The academic activities of JUIT commenced in

July 2002 and currently offer undergraduate BTech, MTech, and doctoral programs in various fields. The University has been accredited twice by NAAC in 2011 and 2017 and was ranked 138 among engineering colleges by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) in 2022.

“Our vision is to become a centre of excellence in the field of IT and related emerging areas in education, training, and research comparable to the best in the world for producing professionals who shall be leaders in innovation, entrepreneurship, creativity, and management,” shares Dr Rajendra.

Dr Rajendra feels that if he can create a conducive environment for his faculty members and students at JUIT, half of his job will be done, leading to a myriad of successes at various levels

State-of-the Art Infrastructure & Facilities

The campus of JUIT is spread across 25 acres of lush green picturesque slopes of Waknaghat hills in the Solan District of Himachal Pradesh. The Wi-Fi-enabled campus encompasses an academic block with a spacious auditorium, lecture theatres, classrooms, tutorial rooms, laboratories, administrative offices, faculty offices, and a library. The second terrace of the hill has all the hostels, students’ mess, guestrooms, helipad, outdoor sports facilities, and a dispensary.

Moreover, JUIT is home to Pan-Indian students. However, most of the students are from the Northern part of the country. Here, admissions are offered based on JEE mains ranking and 10+2 merit basis. Therefore, quality students are admitted at JUIT and are provided with the most advanced facilities to attain their academic & career goals and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Fostering a Conducive Environment for Faculty & Students

As the Vice Chancellor, Dr Rajendra has always focused on developing policies and processes for JUIT’s functions. He further quotes Mahatma Gandhiji, the father of our nation, who once said, ‘You must be the change you wish to see in the world’. As a firm believer of this quote, Dr Rajendra feels that if he can create a conducive environment for his faculty members and students at JUIT, half of his job will be done, leading to a myriad of successes at various levels.

Therefore, one of the major initiatives started by Dr Rajendra in this direction is forming several inter-departmental groups to encourage the culture of collaboration and innovation at JUIT. He adds, “This initiative will also enable us to give a very conducive environment for the young minds of today so that they develop into good citizens of our

As the Vice Chancellor, Dr Rajendra has always focused on developing policies and processes for JUIT’s functions

nation.” In addition, Dr Rajendra has majorly emphasised the signing of new National and International MoUs with reputed universities, research laboratories, and industries.

Most recently, LMS Moodle was implemented at JUIT. This platform will help the university provide an integrated learning and evaluation environment for students and faculty. From a seasoned educator’s perspective, Dr Rajendra considers all these initiatives as key drivers in helping JUIT to improve its national and global status and a pathway to guide students towards a brighter future.

Challenges Encountered by ResearchFocused Universities

According to Dr Rajendra, one of the biggest challenges Indian Universities face while promoting research inside the campus is inadequate research grants. To top it off, private Indian universities find it more challenging to acquire funding to conduct research. Similarly,

qualitative and applicable research is another aspect the current academicians should focus on.

“The places conducting qualitative and applicable research are very few in our country, and so, I am trying to help my colleagues balance their professional and personal lives to improve the research culture at JUIT,” states Dr Rajendra. He further shares that intra- and interdepartmental collaborative research groups can help the University in this direction.

My vision is to prepare professional ethical engineers who can compete in any situation and get settled in their lives comfortably

Significant Milestones of JUIT Faculty & Students

Recently, six of the projects submitted by JUIT faculty members have been approved by State/National agencies for funding, which is remarkable. Moreover, Dr Rajendra and the management team are now actively leading efforts towards filing the patents. Likewise, the mean salary of JUIT students through campus/ off-campus selections is also steadily increasing.

Hence, transforming students into the 21stcentury workforce will be JUIT management’s top focus.

Must-Have Trait in Educators

Dr Rajendra feels the one trait present-day educators must possess is the passion for teaching. He explains, “It is essential for educators to be passionate about their work and genuinely care for their student’s progress

and development to the level that we do for our own children.”

Working Towards Fulfilling a Vision

“My vision for JUIT is to make it a worldclass institution delivering quality education to our dear students. Additionally, my vision is to prepare professional ethical engineers who can compete in any situation and get settled in their lives comfortably. They should also contribute to the progress of our society and country through their innovations and products,” reveals Dr Rajendra.

Roadmap for the Future

As a technology-oriented University, JUIT is working towards fulfilling its goal to be placed among the top 75 NIRF institutions by 2024. Furthermore, Dr Rajendra and his team will continue to focus on improving the quality of education and campus life for their students, faculty members, and staff. “We are very close to nature. Therefore, maintaining a peaceful environment is not a big deal, but we continuously try to deal with other adverse conditions,” concludes Dr Rajendra.

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Empowering Students to Become Successful Leaders

Sandra Agnes D’Souza, Director – South at JD Institute of Fashion Technology, works on a vision to keep the students at the centre of all initiatives. An energetic leader who has introduced varied courses in the field of Art and Design industry, Sandra’s specialisation lies in developing interpersonal relationships, team and leadership management, strategic and risk management, business development plans, and establishing industry connections. She has a total of two decades plus experience in various fields. Of which, five years she worked with humanitarian organisations as Regional Training Coordinator with ASP (Ankuram Sangamam Poram), a microfinance organisation for Dalit Federations, a National Fundraiser for NCDHR (National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights). Rest of the experience is in design education of which 10 years she has been exclusively associated with JD Institute of Fashion Technology.

Sandra Agnes D’Souza Director – South, JD Institute of Fashion Technology

Innovation is possible when we can refer to what is present to make better-educated decisions. This helps students to study and become promising leaders

Sandra Agnes D’Souza, Director – South, JD Institute of Fashion Technology

Sandra’s role includes creation of strategies that align with the university structure, endto-end solutions, overall development, and expansion in terms of the academy, industry, and academic excellence. As a Director, she also works closely with the marketing and accounts team, staff, and faculties. Her firm grasp of psychology has helped her understand the nuances of building relationships with students and their parents. She also introduced skill-building for faculties and staff alike, which has helped achieve high academic success standards for the institution.

JD Institute of Fashion Technology has strived to create an environment conducive to growth.

In the institute, women are at the forefront of leadership and decision-making roles

Her primary focus is ensuring quality education and finding ways to aid students in accomplishing their dreams. For this, she has introduced new-age courses and amenities at the JD Institute of Fashion Technology. Besides, students are guided by faculties who are armed with industry experience for them to learn and thrive. Sandra shares, “It is imperative to seek domestic and international collaborations and participate in events that are grounds to build a dynamic industry network that provides us with opportunities to learn and understand what is new in the industry.” These efforts have paid

fruition by being recognised and bestowed with awards for contribution towards education. She does not believe in lying on laurels but going allout and taking up challenges to ensure growth.

Encouraging Innovation and Creativity Among Learners

The multiple award-winning design institute, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, was established in 1988. From a singular entity, the institute has expanded to 40+ learning centres across India, 40,000+ alumni, and 96% successful placement. JD Institute offers many courses in Design,

Media, Entrepreneurship, Management, Photography, and Hair and Make-up Artistry to cater to the ever-growing market. With a vigorous combination of Research, Mentoring, Practical exposure, and Classroom training, the institute plays a crucial role in shaping the students to become the industry experts of tomorrow.

Sandra shares, “JD Institute’s mission is to change how people perceive design and make India one of the Design hubs in the world.” The institute thrives on one goal; to constantly inspire and encourage students to follow the three pillars for which JD stands: Innovation, Sustainability, and Eco-friendly. JD Institute of Fashion Technology was founded to identify students’ potential and to give freedom to explore their creativity, realise their potential and achieve their dreams.

The institute has experienced faculties from various industries who support students in their endeavours and make them industry ready with a well-crafted curriculum. There is a provision of research and development facilities on the campus to aid students in their educational initiatives. To further demonstrate the steps taken toward students’ success, the institute has teamed up with government and non-

government bodies. They have collaborated with Adobe India, IIID, ADI, KOEFIA, London College of Fashion, Chelsea College of Arts, Georgian College, India Fashion Week London, Condé Nast College of Fashion and Design, Furniture and Fittings Skill Council, Jawaharlal Nehru Technical Education, etc. They also provide international study tours to the world’s fashion capitals – Paris and London, to help students and faculties seek a global perspective to stay ahead. Platforms like JD Design Awards, thesis writing, dissertation presentations on course subjects, and international associations open horizons to understanding design from

Rather than wallowing in “what could have been,” Sandra believes that one must accept the shortcomings and be able to rise from them

different aspects. “Innovation is possible when we can refer to what is present to make bettereducated decisions. This helps students to study and become promising leaders,” she adds.

Advice for the Women Leaders

In the past, most women struggled to gain recognition in the workplace because of societal expectations and stereotypes. However, women have made great strides and are thriving in leadership roles in several previously maledominated industries. Sandra says, “women are multi-taskers by nature. To succeed, they must be willing to step out of their comfort zone and build both mental and emotional strength.” As you rise higher, you must be thick-skinned and not give in to pressure. If you cannot do so, it will lead to frustration, and you will want to give up. For women to carve a space in the top management, organisations need to create comfort in the workspace, have performancebased remuneration, and acknowledge their contribution to creating long-term benefits.

Sandra emphasises, “women are still a minority in leadership roles in India. Though we have seen a growth in women leaders, they are just far and in between. We still have a long way to go. The harbinger of change is witnessed when a workplace is more inclusive.”

To improve the chances of Indian women taking on the mantle of leadership roles, an organisation needs to recognise their contribution to ultimately enable them to succeed. Sandra believes as a leader, she is responsible for everyone who works with her; hence their well-being is of utmost importance to her. Hence empathy plays a massive role in interactions. This led to building trust among organisational resources, enhanced steadfastness among the staff, and helped them find a purpose to work together for a shared vision. She further adds, “I consider myself a leader as I own the organisation’s vision and work towards sustainable mission strategies. I have a resilient attitude and commitment towards my job.”

JD Institute of Fashion Technology has strived to create an environment conducive to growth. In the institute, women are at the forefront of leadership and decision-making roles. The idea is to encourage women to be more dynamic and bolder to take up demanding roles. Sandra also shares, “Becoming a leader is more than a role. You need to keep attaining new skills and become accustomed to the needs of the leadership role.” She wants to create a culture of gender parity where a deserving person is promoted.

Overcoming day-to-day challenges

As a leader, every day is different and comes with its own set of challenges. Sandra feels proud to have a fantastic team in which she has complete faith in. She does not believe in micro-managing, so her

yearly and monthly goals are set at the beginning of the year, with occasional meetings to determine the progress. Sandra shares, “A leader should be confident enough in their employees to independently achieve the set goals.” This builds an optimistic work surrounding and boosts confidence among everyone.

The academic line has high pressure, especially during the peak admission season. To deal with these challenges, mechanisms are put in place which have been developed over a course of time. Rather than wallowing in “what could have been,” Sandra believes that one must accept the shortcomings and be able to rise from them. Also, there is no harm in approaching for help. “I advocate teamwork as it helps with ownership in organisational advancement. When the team needs me, I am always at their disposal and vice versa. It is also imperative to make the time to reflect and learn,” she adds. A leader with a growth mindset sees opportunities for their team, even during times of crisis.

As a leader, the people you work with are your strength. Sandra says, “to make them valuable to your organisation, you need to support them to take on bigger roles irrespective

of gender.” This will allow them to gain insight into themselves and their work, empowering them to plan a successful path toward leadership.

Professionally, bosses with whom Sandra has worked with so far have been a significant influence in her life. She says, “I have been able to move up the ladder because of progressive environment at my work places. My superiors were able to understand my potential and gave enough freedom to challenge myself and take risks.” Sandra has learned that to it is importance have a supportive work environment and a management that believes in your abilities and ready to give you those chances to make your dream come true. Without support one cannot achieve anything. She explains, “apart from my bosses, my colleagues too have been my champions. I believe knowledge can be sought from anybody. We usually tend to be restricted in learning from our subordinates, however we should keep an open mind and be flexible and ready to take on the information from everyone, be it from someone who is higher in the hierarchy or even someone who is just starting

out. Hence, I am influenced and inspired by everyone around me.”

Ongoing Education System

The current education system attempts to provide the best for the students and warrants overall requirements for improvement. Every academic segment has a standardised process of imparting knowledge. However, the institute realised they must build a robust education ecosystem that opens windows for creative education. As there is considerable growth and opportunities in the design realm, students with an artistic bent of mind want to pursue the field without going through the grind of conventional direction. To encourage themselves, they needed to create a strong educational ecosystem that encompasses innovation and is receptive to change. This will lead to an exciting knowledge culture and cultivate the creation of innovative work and projects that will contribute to building leadership-driven professionals.

Students in today’s times are lucky to have information readily available at their fingertips. While talking about education, Sandra says, “During my time, the scenario was different. We did not have access to online resources and social media. For information and knowledge, we relied heavily on learning directly through hardbound publications, library materials, and information imparted by the professors.

Listening to the radio and watching the news were other resources for staying tuned to national and international updates.” These events, influences, values, and services meted by the professors have been significant markers in her life. This made her realise that nothing is going to come easy and instilled a never give up attitude and accept challenges head-on. “I want to attribute the lessons I have learned in organisational and management skills, work ethic, business management, etc., to my professors. Most of all, I also want to attribute my success to my sturdy faith in God,” she adds.

Stepping Towards the Future Goal

In today’s competitive world, staying abreast of market trends is vital for an organisation’s success. Despite the competition, one should be bold in learning from their competitors. Sandra says, “we also attend various forums and interactive platforms like seminars, panel discussions, well-connected industry networks, international collaborations, student community, and social media platforms.”

There is also regular upkeep with industry trade publications and websites; national, regional, and city newspapers; influential bloggers and business thought leaders. Staying informed on trends is essential to build authority and value,

to demonstrate future direction. This also enables to improve strategy, augments the organisation’s vision, and creates a persuasive philosophy. “In this way, we can explore all areas of leadership to guarantee the effective development of our employees, retain talent and lead our organisation to greater heights,” she adds.

JD Institute of Fashion Technology is an entity of JD Educational Trust. Under its aegis, it has introduced JD School of Design by Mr. Nealesh Dalal, which was started to provide new-age courses for new design disciplines to meet the current market demands. The courses offered are Graphic Design, Product Design, UI/ UX, Event Management, Textile Design, etc., in collaboration/affiliation with various universities in India and abroad. Sandra shares, “We are also looking to build more research-driven infrastructure for better facilities and a larger student intake to bring larger financial growth to the institute.”

They aim to become a university by building vast university structures and centres. Based on the needs of the industry, they are also exploring the side of design education, which has yet to be touched on. “We are giving more importance to Bachelors’ and Masters’ programs. We are also looking forward to starting with a PhD. Courses soon,” Sandra concludes.

JD Institute of Fashion Technology is an entity of JD Educational Trust. Under its aegis, it has introduced the JD School of Design, which was started to provide new-age courses for new design disciplines to meet the current market demands

INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE

NEP 2020 in 2023

The introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) in 2020 had been heralded as a major advancement in the HE sector in India. It is the first Indian public policy on the issue of education in the 21st century, pushing for an ‘overhaul’ and ‘revamping’ of the education sector in the country. Compared to its predecessors in 1968

and 1986, the NEP’s ground-breaking move in the support of privatisation, internationalisation, and digitalisation has set monumental changes in motion within the Indian higher education sector. These will have a transformational effect not only for the sector but will largely aim to change the socio-political reality of the subcontinent. In 2023, a number of laws and initiatives have been

With a nod towards the establishment of the Digital National University in India and the approval of fully online degrees in 38 universities across India, the full-fledged digitalisation of higher education has just begun

Ananya Bhadauria, International Education Policy and Stakeholder Relations Manager, Acumen

Ananya is currently working on developing and delivering research for governments and universities in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand with a particular focus on TNE arrangements and a keen understanding of regulations and policy within the higher education sector. She recently graduated from The University of Oxford where her master’s focused on learning more about comparative and international education, focusing on international higher education policy. She received a distinction for her analysis of the regulatory environments conducive to the internationalization process within Indian higher education, focusing on the NEP 2020. Ananya has a keen understandingofpublicpolicyinitiatives within higher education and has skills in quantitative and qualitative analysis and knowledge of Transnational Education. Ananya has previously collaboratedasakeypartofresearch teams at USAID and the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, and has authored research for the Department of Education and the University of Oxford. She is currently a committee member of the Centre for Global Higher Education (CGHE), headquartered at the University of Oxford.

launched under the guiding roadmap of the NEP 2020, keeping in mind the vision of access and equity in providing ‘world-class’ education, right at our doorstep.

In a post-pandemic future, higher education is at the forefront of the nation-building process. With the largest number of students enrolled in higher education across the world, between the ages of 18-25, below are three trends to watch out for:

1. The Advent of Digital Degrees: The Union government is all set to launch India’s ambitious initiative ‘National Digital University’

in 2023 to provide online education in multiple languages. The University will be built on a networked hub-spoke model, with the hub building cutting-edge ICT expertise. The best public universities and institutions in the country will collaborate as a network of hub spokes. Since the NDU will be built on a networked hub-spoke model, it can develop cuttingedge ICT platforms and digital content, using AI, ML, VR/AR, and blockchain. The NDU can integrate the existing capabilities such as SWAYAM, SWAYAM-Prabha, ePG-Pathshala, eGyanKosh, National Digital Library, and Virtual Labs into one organic entity.

NEP 2020 seeks to pave the way for flexible and lifelong learning and encourages students to choose their academic path leading to the award of a certificate, diploma, and degree

Digitalisation is in line with the NEP’s goal to expand access and provide quality education, as it aims to achieve a 50% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER). With a nod towards the establishment of the Digital National University in India and the approval of fully online degrees in 38 universities across India, the full-fledged digitalisation of higher education has just begun. Inclusive HE requires access to higher education by all groups of students to ensure free access to the poor students of SEDGs. Especially when communities have prior needs of access to basic water and food supplies, electricity, and healthcare facilities, expanding GER digitally will become difficult to sustain. Evidently, increasing the gap between haves and have-nots in the Indian HE system reproduces the existing social hierarchies and thereby leading to an exclusion of a large population. Keeping this in mind, the goals of accessibility and equity in mind, the digital divide must be overcome at any cost.

2. Foreign Universities in our Backyard and Transnational Education (TNE):

Many newspapers and news articles have used names such as Oxford and Harvard to foretell their arrival in India with the new draft guidelines released by the Indian University Grants Commission (UGC) to establish branch campuses. However, it may be naïve to assume that these institutions would jump at this opportunity, as much as it may seem to please the easy pallet of our imagination. As India hopes to become a ‘Vishwa Guru’ in accordance with the NEP 2020, the role of international institutions has been amplified to help Indian institutions provide ‘world-class’ education. The NEP 2020 initially proposed to let the top 100 institutions of the world

have access to India. However, this later changed to ‘top 1000’ and now to ‘top 500 or a reputed institution in home country’ in order to establish branch campuses in India.

However, branch campuses in India may be a far-fetched notion in 2023 due to India’s limited GDP expenditure and lack of state sponsorship for infrastructural facilities. However, transnational education (TNE) and setting up of franchises and validated, online, articulation and progression provisions will be very much a reality. These TNE opportunities will provide Indian students with an array of opportunities and alternatives as compared to studying abroad with low returns on employment, high tuition fee, and unsustainable long-term growth. Additionally, TNE will widen access for students, attract international students, boost educational exports and enhance teaching and research capacities, in line with the NEP’s ‘Study in India’ campaign. TNE collaborations have the potential to generate a substantial impact on local communities and sustainability. It can also directly impact the economic development of the country as it improves competitiveness and employability at scale. Students also reap the benefits of an internationally recognised qualification, which is more affordable in comparison to pursuing the same abroad.

3. Flexible Learning:

NEP 2020 seeks to pave the way for flexible and lifelong learning and encourages students to choose their academic path leading to the award of a certificate, diploma, and degree. Hence, the Multiple Entry and Exit System (MEES) is the cornerstone of the new National Education Policy in higher education. This allows students to drop their course and resume it at a later stage as and

when they desire or deem it worth pursuing. In line with the digital university initiative and the internationalisation of the Indian higher education sector, this arrangement will prove to be a boon for those students who cannot continue their studies due to financial or social constraints and desire to resume their studies whenever their conditions become favorable in due course of time, irrespective of age or social backgrounds. This is also in line with the NEP’s Academic Bank of Credits which aims to keep a record of qualifications gained under a governmentapproved database.

While this may seem to increase GER initially and not account for the actual number of graduates in the long run, it is nonetheless a plausible initiative. Multiple Entry and Exit System (MEES) can be considered a major reform aimed at making the Indian higher education system more student-friendly and equitable. The strategic execution of this path-breaking move will provide seamless mobility to learners ensuring their zeroyear loss with the opportunity of learning from anywhere, anytime.

As the number of Indian students opting for higher education overseas grows annually, their abroad spending is set to grow from the current annual $28 billion to $80 billion by 2024. Compared to this, the number of students domestically increased from 37 million to roughly 40 million between 2016 and 2019. Evidently, there is an urgent need to revamp and revitalise the Indian higher education system to encourage Indian students to opt to study in India while providing world-class education at our doorstep. In this regard, these three trends are a welcome step in enabling better access to quality higher education in India.

As India hopes to become a ‘Vishwa Guru’ in accordance with the NEP 2020, the role of international institutions has been amplified to help Indian institutions provide ‘world-class’ education