Dr. Jagannatha S is working as the Professor and HOD of the Department of Computer Applications, at East Point Group of Institutions. He has published more than 80 Research papers in National and International Journals. He is a resourceful and innovative educationist having extensive experience of nearly 30 years and works in strategic planning and audit processes. He has participated and addressed keynote sessions at various institutions. He received the Best Researcher award. His areas of interest are Cloud computing, Object Technology and Software Performance Engineering.

East Point Group of Institutions

What inspired you to pursue a career in higher education administration, and what drew you to your current role as a Dean/HOD?

My passion for teaching, coupled with extensive experience in teaching, research, and industry roles at various organizational levels, inspired my transition into higher education administration. This shift allowed me to utilize my expertise in a different capacity. As an administrator, my primary responsibility is to ensure the efficient execution of tasks in alignment with policies, procedures, and guidelines mandated by statutory bodies across multiple departments. What drew me specifically to my current role as a Dean/HOD was the opportunity to shape the educational landscape. In this position, I can influence curriculum development, faculty development, and overall departmental direction. My goal is to provide a high-quality education that meets industry standards, bridging the gap between academia and the professional world.

This role allows me to harness my passion for teaching and apply it to the broader institution, striving to create an environment where students receive the best possible education to succeed in their future careers.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing higher education today, and how do you think your institution is addressing those challenges?

The biggest challenges are university curriculum, outcome-based education, research and facilities. Institutions initiate Value-added programs and initiate outcome-based and project-based learning. Students intern in an organization, subsequently, they undertake a project on real-time applications and publish it in the journals. As part of the program, we encourage students to register for the latest online courses like MOOC etc. The students are exposed to real-life experiences through technical talks, seminars and workshops, conducted by practicing industry professionals, on the latest technologies in collaboration with prominent Industries. Dept students’ associations organize various co- curricular and extracurricular activities to enrich their skills.

What are your primary responsibilities as Dean/ HOD and how do you balance them with other aspects of your job?

As a Dean/HOD, my primary responsibilities involve overseeing and leading academic activities, ensuring the department functions efficiently, and aligning its objectives with the institution’s vision and mission. Balancing these administrative duties with teaching commitments requires effective time management and delegation.

To achieve this balance, I employ meticulous planning, scheduling, and prioritization of tasks. I also decentralize responsibilities within the department to ensure that work is completed efficiently and in a timely manner. By distributing tasks effectively and empowering colleagues, I can focus on both administrative and teaching responsibilities without compromising the quality of either. This approach allows me to fulfill my role as a Dean/HOD while maintaining a strong presence in the classroom, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience for students while ensuring the department’s continued growth and success.

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

Absolutely, here are some valuable suggestions for the current youth and aspiring students. Define your long-term goals and create a plan to achieve them. Having a clear direction will help you stay focused and motivated. Be sincere, honest, and punctual in your academic pursuits. Consistency and dedication in your studies are essential for success. Self-esteem, patience, and hard work are crucial attributes in achieving your aspirations. Believe in yourself, be patient with your progress, and put in the effort required to excel. Understand that everyone is unique, with their own strengths and weaknesses. Avoid comparing yourself to others, as it can be demotivating. Instead, focus on improving yourself and your skills. No one achieves everything on their first try. Failures and setbacks are part of the journey. Maintain your confidence and never give up. Learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward. Don’t hesitate to seek advice and guidance from mentors, teachers, or professionals in your field of interest. They can provide valuable insights and support your growth.

Cultivate a curious mindset. Ask questions, explore new topics, and never stop learning. The pursuit of knowledge can open doors to unexpected opportunities. Balance your academic pursuits with other aspects of life, such as hobbies, social activities, and self-care. A well-rounded life can contribute to your overall well- being and success. Networking can be instrumental in career growth. Connect with peers, professors, and professionals in your field to build meaningful relationships and access opportunities. Be open to change and adaptable in a rapidly evolving world. Embrace new technologies and trends in your chosen field to stay competitive.

Can you describe any specific measures or programs that your institution has been implemented to address the rising mental health issues and stress among students in India?

The Institution has formed an anti-ragging cell and an anti-sexual harassment cell to monitor students’ activities and the students are made aware of the existing cells. The department also initiates stress-relieving activities by conducting yoga, games, sports, group activities, journaling their thoughts/ feelings.

What new initiatives and collaborations has the University established with Industry Leaders to promote industry-specific courses? 

The university has taken several significant initiatives to foster collaboration with industry leaders and enhance industry-specific courses. These initiatives include the establishment of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with prominent industry partners. Through these MOUs, the university collaborates on various fronts, including consultancy, projects, internships, Research and Development activities, and skill development programs. These partnerships aim to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements.

Furthermore, the university has embarked on setting up Centers of Excellence dedicated to fostering a dynamic skilling ecosystem within the institution. These centers serve as hubs for cutting-edge industry practices, providing students with opportunities to gain practical knowledge and exposure to industry-specific skills. Such collaborations and initiatives not only enrich the educational experience but also ensure that courses remain relevant and aligned with the ever-evolving demands of the industry.