Providing a sustainable learning atmosphere for students to explore and grow simultaneously

Dr Lakshmi Priya Daniel, currently the IQAC Coordinator, Stella Maris College (Autonomous) joined the Department of Fine Arts as faculty in 1996 and was also formerly the Dean of Student Affairs (June 2014 – 2017). She is a multifaceted leader who believes in providing experiential learning to the students. She firmly believes in developing and fostering an environment where students can explore a plethora of possibilities. Read here what she has to say in her interview.

What are the key factors that keep you connected with the education sector?

“It is our responsibility to help them realize their dreams and goals”

My connection to education lies in various factors, including a deep sense of commitment to nurturing the students' potential and helping the next generation of young women create a future for themselves. The satisfaction and honor that I have gained make it more of a calling than just a job or even a career binding me to the education sector for more than two decades.

What is your philosophy of leadership? How would you describe your leadership style?

“I believe in the participatory style of leadership”

The democratic electoral process and the right to exercise freedom of choice in every aspect is something I treasure personally. As a leader, this has found ample expression within the college community. I also have great respect for youthful leadership's energy as they bring in fresh ideas and lateral thinking, which is the need of the hour.

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The education systems in India and other foreign countries are structured very differently. What are your views upon it?

“We help students to explore possibilities in every domain possible”

The significant observable difference is that of rote learning being privileged over concept-based education in India. Both systems are needed in my experience but must be evened out and applied at different stages of the educational structure. As impetus is given to research in Stella Maris College, even at the Undergraduate level, the students can find exciting opportunities within and outside the curriculum to explore and ideate across fields and spheres. 

How does the curriculum of Stella Maris College ensure the best practice of industry?

“The industry experts suggest their valuable opinions to incorporate industry trends”

We have industry experts and academicians who are members of the Board of Studies and the Academic Council. These bodies review and finalize the curriculum of our College. Every Department has an annual review with the Board members to discuss and evaluate the Department's curriculum. Their suggestions and evaluations of the course and the content delivered are scrutinized and tailor-made to make our students' industry-ready. Every Department also encourages research and industrial training/industrial visits/internships.

We have a few college courses, such as a B.Voc degree that focus on enhancing the skill sets through industrial training and internships. These courses provide a platform for our students to become job-ready.

Any insights into how your college could be more welcoming to students of different races or economic backgrounds?

“We ensure the focus is on value based education”

We actively focus on value-based education, which is inclusive and ensures the promotion of qualities like responsibility and accountability to our community and society. Some practices are built into the various programs where students from different parts of the country and underprivileged backgrounds are given support. For instance, in the office of Deans of Student Affairs, there are mechanisms in place which help students obtain private scholarships and other amenities, including canteen privileges for students in need of such assistance.

“My vision has significantly evolved with changing needs. Currently, my dream as the IQAC Coordinator has grown to include sustaining a Quality Culture across the various disciplines to help enrich the college community.”

What do you see as Stella Maris College’s greatest strengths? 

“The motto is deeply etched in our minds”

The deeply embedded principles and values reflected in the college's motto - 'Truth and Charity' remains at the root of everything. The uncompromising pursuit of excellence while ensuring a spirit of inclusion is what I see as Stella Maris College's greatest strengths. I believe these ensure that our students become confident women who are assets as national and global citizens.

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Any suggestions you would like to give to the current youth and the aspiring students?

“Life is full of surprises, keep exploring every possible aspects”

There is always an aspect in life that we educators like to call ‘Perseverance Quota,’ which helps one grow and continue to pursue their aspirations in the event of setbacks. So never give up and live to enjoy every moment of every experience because we don’t know what this adventure called life has in store for us!