Dr. Rama Thirumurugan is currently working as a Professor and Head of the Mechanical Department at Dr. Mahalingam College of Engineering & Technology, Tamilnadu, India. He did his B.E. degree from Bharathiyar University, Coimbatore. He then completed an M.E. from Madurai Kamaraj University and a Ph.D. from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. He has published 16 journal publications. He is a member of The Institution of Engineers (India).

Dr. Mahalingam College of Engineering

What do you see as your college’s greatest strength? 

Faculty and infrastructure are our greatest strengths. Students enjoy well-framed academic infrastructure, with good quality and experienced faculty members as well as professional-level sports encouragements. The college emphasizes the research, development, and support of interdisciplinary research activities and innovative initiatives through the Centre for Research and Institute Innovation Cell. And we conduct 6 intercollege fests in a year. 

When you came to the college, what was your vision and how are you trying to achieve the same? 

My vision upon assuming this position was to create a thriving academic environment that fosters innovation, excellence, and holistic development of our students. Additionally, I have focused on strengthening industry-academia collaborations. By forging partnerships with leading companies and organizations, we provide our students with opportunities for internships, industrial visits, and hands-on projects. To encourage innovation and research, I have established research centers and promoted interdisciplinary collaboration among faculty members and students. 

What are your roles and responsibilities to the University and the students? 

To lead, manage, and develop the department to ensure it achieves the highest possible standards of excellence in all its activities. Supervise, and delegate the work of all faculty and staff within the department. Provide mentoring to faculty to offer support and guidance toward excellence in teaching, service, and scholarly activities. Facilitate the pursuit of professional development and research activities for faculty.

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What approaches do you bring in apart from the curriculum to train the students? 

Apart from academic subjects, we focus on enhancing their aptitude, logical reasoning, and quantitative abilities, which are essential for their overall development. Additionally, we organize various activities to instill social responsibility and promote community engagement. Our students actively participate in road safety campaigns, visit nearby villages, and support the local community in their day-to-day activities. These initiatives help them develop a broader perspective, empathy, and a sense of social awareness, making them well-rounded individuals prepared to contribute positively to society. 

How do you bring in a practical and industry-oriented approach towards subjects? 

To bring in a practical and industry-oriented approach toward subjects, we emphasize the importance of real-world exposure and practical learning. We organize professional visits to industries, where students can witness firsthand how concepts are applied in real-life scenarios. Additionally, we offer certification courses that are designed in collaboration with industry experts to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge required in the current job market. These initiatives not only enhance students' understanding of the subject matter but also bridge the gap between academia and industry, preparing them for successful careers in their respective fields. 

How does the college enhance the skills of the faculty and prepare them according to industry standards? 

Faculty members are actively encouraged to publish research papers in reputed journals, thereby fostering a culture of scholarly inquiry and keeping them updated with the latest advancements in their respective fields. Additionally, the college organizes Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) to provide faculty members with opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including teaching methodologies, emerging technologies, and industry trends. 

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

My passion for teaching is the key factor that keeps me connected with the education sector. The joy and fulfillment I experience when imparting knowledge, guiding students, and witnessing their growth is unparalleled. The opportunity to inspire young minds, make a positive impact on their lives, and contribute to their intellectual development motivates me to stay connected and continually strive for excellence in education. Teaching allows me to constantly learn, evolve, and be a part of the transformative journey of students, which fuels my commitment and dedication to the education sector.