Mangalayatan University Pro Vice-Chancellor: Dr. Vineeta Saluja Interview

Dr. Vineeta Saluja is the Pro Vice-Chancellor at Mangalayatan University, Jabalpur. A doctorate in English Literature, she is a research supervisor for both M. Phil, as well as, Ph. D scholars. Presently, she is researching cross-cultural communication and actively training students in effective communication and soft skills. She completed a UGC funded major project on poems and short stories in tribal literature of Madhya Pradesh. Her persevering efforts have been recognized and well rewarded by national awards for academics as well as community service.

How has COVID impacted the education industry?

“The education industry has been interrupted at the fundamental level on a global scale”

The academic domain has faced the biggest challenge since COVID 19 began. Entrepreneurs across countries are in the process of building programs that would help students learn through simpler processes. Most students outside the metro-based middle class have limited computer access and have severe connectivity issues. Also, synchronous virtual classes are very stressful for teachers not used to working with technology. However, since there are not many options, for the time being, its best to adjust and adapt to the new normal. 

What is your philosophy of leadership?

“I believe in leading as a Facilitator-Learner and work with optimism”

Leading with optimism improves your chances of leading a successful team. Focusing on everyone’s innate potential gives you more opportunities to leverage everyone’s unique talents. If your leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that constant learning is both important and possible, you may adapt to changes with relative ease.

What has been your vision for the progress of this university?

“To establish Mangalayatan University as a trustworthy institute for research and academics”

I have joined Mangalayatan University in the capacity of Pro VC, but at a similar stage carrying a broader vision. I wish that Mangalayatan University Jabalpur becomes an institution of excellence in higher education and research in the central regions of India. A university that holds nationwide and international prestige. With the support of the Management and the Mangalayatan team, I should be able to lay down the foundation for the vision.

What challenges did you face during the transition from offline to online mode of education?

“Connectivity issues and faculty training for online education have been at the forefront of this transition”

The sudden and unprepared shift of teachers and students online is an unprecedented educational and social experiment.

During the initial lockdown, Mangalayatan University also had online classes, but the problems related to internet connectivity were persistent. Being benefited by the huge space in the University, we started offline classes. We kept a full check on social distancing and sanitization of the campus. We are focused on training the faculties and managing blended learning tools through FDPs and SDPs. 

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What can be done to reduce the inherent gap between students and professors in our education ecosystem?

“By openly discussing the faculty member’s expectations and giving students a voice”

Inviting student feedback about a course, campus and facilities, improves the teacher-student working relationship. A key component in creating positive learning environments is removing the expectation gap between teachers and students. Improved communication leads to a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of everyone. 

What steps has your university taken to promote in-campus diversity?

“Exchange programs and scholarship schemes for meritorious students”

Diversity is high on the agenda for institutions around the world right now, and for good reason. Learning environments that promote diversity of thought are more conducive to creativity and innovation. To promote this, Mangalayatan University is providing Scholarships to the vulnerable section. The student exchange programs have proven to be fruitful. Mangalayatan Jabalpur also has taken many other initiatives in this direction to promote diversity in the learning process.

How does the curriculum of your college help students become industry ready?

“Interactions with industry experts and regularly modified syllabus has several benefits”

Considering the evolving nature of industry and changes in the labour market, it has become essential for us to understand various requirements of the dynamic industry. The university curriculum is revised and is developed in accordance with what industry needs. Pedagogies are made more practical in approach. Case studies and industry interactions have proved to be extremely beneficial for everyone. 

What are the initiatives taken by your university to enable students with entrepreneurial ambition?

“We have established an Entrepreneur development cell, training students on self-employment”

Inadequate Entrepreneurial Education is the reason due to which young Indians are afraid to start their own business. To overcome these challenges, we have included skill development courses across all the programs. Additionally, the entrepreneur development cell organizes training and provide support to facilitate startups and find adequate funding. This also encourages students to think outside-the-box and come up with innovative ideas. Eventually knowing that funding will not be an obstacle in their innovative endeavour.