Dr. E. Nandha Kumar, is a distinguished academician and researcher who is currently the Head of the Department for Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Sri Shakthi Institute of Engineering & Technology. With a wealth of experience in both teaching and research, Dr. Nandha Kumar's journey has been marked by remarkable achievements. He has not only contributed significantly to academia but has also left his imprint on the research landscape with an impressive count of 06 patents, 3 SCI-indexed, 19 Scopus-indexed, and 12 UGC-refereed journal publications. His dedication to teaching excellence earned him the "best contribution in teaching field award" from ESN Research Group, Chennai. His prolific work extends to Conference Proceedings, Books, and Journal publications, reflecting his commitment to advancing knowledge. With an industry-oriented approach, he has also established MoUs with various companies, underscoring his dedication to fostering industry-academia collaboration.

SRI SHAKTHI INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

Being the HOD, what are your responsibilities towards the students?

As the Head of the Department for Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE), my foremost responsibility is to ensure that our students receive the best opportunities for placements and training. I emphasize both on-campus and off-campus placements across various sectors to provide our students with a wide array of career options. This involves not only fostering ties with industries but also guiding students to enhance their skills and knowledge for a competitive job market. Additionally, I am committed to enhancing our teaching-learning methodology and incorporating innovative approaches to keep our curriculum in line with industry trends and technological advancements. Overall, my goal is to empower our students to thrive in their chosen fields and contribute effectively to society.

Any suggestions you would like to give to the aspiring students?

I strongly advise aspiring students to embrace a continuous learning mindset. In today's fast-evolving world, acquiring new skills and knowledge is paramount. Cultivate a thirst for learning and stay updated with the latest advancements in your field. Dedicate time each day to hone your skills and explore new areas of interest. Additionally, don't shy away from challenges; they are growth opportunities. Remember that success is a journey, and consistent effort and determination will pave the way for a rewarding career. Stay curious, stay focused, and keep pushing your boundaries to achieve your dreams.

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

One of our college's greatest strengths lies in its comprehensive range of facilities dedicated to fostering the holistic development of our students. Our state-of-the-art infrastructure encompasses well-equipped laboratories, advanced classrooms, and modern amenities that create an optimal learning environment. Additionally, our campus is adorned with greenery, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere conducive to focused studies. These facilities collectively contribute to a dynamic learning experience and provide students with the tools they need to excel in their academic journey and beyond.

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How does the curriculum of your College ensure the best practice of industry?

The curriculum at our college is meticulously designed to align with the best industry practices. We have integrated a blend of both online and offline practical activities, ensuring that students not only grasp theoretical knowledge but also gain hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. Moreover, we emphasize research-oriented learning by encouraging students to delve into various research papers and actively participate in external symposiums and competitions. This approach instills critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of industry trends, making our students well-prepared to seamlessly transition into professional roles after their academic journey.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I firmly believe in maintaining a leadership style that is readily approachable and accessible. Being easily approachable enables me to address any concerns or issues that the staff and students may have. This open-door policy not only fosters a sense of trust and transparency but also allows me to understand the challenges and needs of the department members more effectively. It aligns with my belief that a leader should actively engage with their team to create a positive work environment and uphold the institution's social responsibilities. This approach encourages effective communication, teamwork, and a harmonious atmosphere within the department.

How do you help your student cope with the high competition outside?

To prepare our students for the intense competition outside, we emphasize a multi-faceted approach that combines training, collaboration, and activities aimed at achieving excellence. We provide rigorous technical training that equips them with the latest industry-relevant skills. Collaborative projects and group activities promote teamwork and problem-solving, which are crucial in the real world. Moreover, we encourage participation in workshops, seminars, hackathons, and internships to enhance practical exposure. Our aim is to nurture their critical thinking abilities, foster innovation, and instill a strong work ethic. By engaging them in activities that mirror real-world challenges, we help them build the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the competitive environment beyond the campus.

How do you train your faculty to deliver these programs to the students?

We ensure our faculty's readiness to deliver these programs effectively by offering a variety of training methods. Faculty members are encouraged to participate in Faculty Development Programs (FDPs), which provide insights into modern teaching methodologies and subject knowledge. We organize Upgrading Human Values (UHV) programs to enhance their overall approach, focusing on values and ethics. Additionally, faculty members are encouraged to enroll in Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) that cover the latest trends in education and technology. This multi-pronged approach equips our faculty with diverse skills, ensuring they are well-prepared to impart quality education and foster holistic development among students.