Dr.Y.Mallikarjuna Reddy is the Principal at Vasireddy Venkatadri Institute of Technology. He is a distinguished academician and able administrator with more than 30 years of experience. He started out his teaching career as a lecturer in the year 1990. Dr Mallikarjuna obtained his Doctorate in Radar Signal and Image Processing from Osmania University, Hyderabad after completing his Master’s Degree from JNTU, Kakinada and B.Tech Degree from Osmania University, Hyderabad. He has published 28 research papers in various reputed National and International journals, and has a couple of patents to his credit. Moreover, he has also authored ten books in his area of interest.

Vasireddy Venkatadri Institute of Technology

You have held key positions at education institutes throughout your professional career. What are the key factors that keep you connected with the education sector?

Dynamic Leadership mixed with empathetic understanding are the two key factors that keep me connected with education. I enjoy teaching students and guiding them towards successful careers. It also gives me an opportunity to learn about new trends in my field and upgrade my knowledge.

Being the Principal of VASIREDDY VENKATADRI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY what is your philosophy of leadership? How would you describe your leadership style?

A true leader is one who is assertive and says no when it is necessary. He draws a line between right and wrong and sets a path for others to follow. Simple, a leader leads by example. I like to take charge and do a difficult task first before asking others to do it. I want to be there source of courage and confidence.

Being the Principal of VASIREDDY VENKATADRI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY , how do you strategize about the key programs and plans for the marketing and administration of your school?

At VVIT we believe in the concept of extended family. We call ourselves VVITIANS – the management, staff and students are its members. As a family, we walk the Right Path. So, any decision we make, including marketing strategies are done in consultation with everyone. We take all stakeholder's opinions and finalize decisions.

The education systems in India and other foreign countries are structured very differently. In your experience, what can an inbound student gain from studying here in your university?

A freshman Engineering graduate is transformed into an employable skilled professional by the time he leaves the institution. Our teachers teach them not just technical knowledge but also groom their personalities to stand out from competition. We also focus a lot on developing practical skills before they leave our campus. They learn to compete and comprehend from their wins and losses. 

How does the curriculum of VASIREDDY VENKATADRI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY ensure the best practice of industry?

Outcome based education is the choice of the day. A flexible curriculum and ample of opportunities for practical learning are the essential components of VVIT Autonomous Curriculum. We try to maintain an optimum balance of technical knowledge and practical skills.

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

As of now we are open only to Indians. Once we become a deemed university “we will be open to receive all” without prejudice. We also have plans to introduce scholarships and financial aide for students so that no one faces any problems during their education.

What do you think your roles and responsibilities to the University and the students are?

The role of the institution is to cater to the comprehensive developmental needs of the students. We at VVIT nurture our students as foster parents do. We want our students to be comfortable at our college and pay full attention to their studies. We are willing and ready to extend all types of support, mentorship and advise students need.

When you first came to VASIREDDY VENKATADRI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY , what was your vision for the university? 

When I first joined, my vision was to educate the students and grow with the college. So far, over the years, I have managed to achieve these. This year, we have entered into MoUs with German universities to offer Placement Oriented Nano Masters Program. I am excited to being this plan to fruition.

What do you see as VASIREDDY VENKATADRI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY greatest strengths?

Everyone counts is our college’s placement motto. And at VVIT we ensure that it is practically implemented. We want to make everyone feel welcome and at home here. This is, I believe, our greatest strength. Our qualified team of teachers come a close second to being our strengths.

What are some of the biggest challenges you see, both for higher education in general and for VASIREDDY VENKATADRI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY specifically?

Our biggest challenge is the “lack of freedom” to experiment with syllabus design and curriculum structure as we are not a deemed to be university. We are following the syllabus and curriculum given to us by affiliating university. 

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

Believe in yourself and the world will believe in you. Take time to identify your passions and follow it. If you love what you are doing, you will enjoy your work and not burn out. Try to identify opportunities as and when they arise so that you do not miss them.

What are some plans that you’re currently (or will be) designing for VASIREDDY VENKATADRI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY international affairs and/or students?

As I mentioned above, we are currently planning twinning and student exchange programmes with foreign universities. This will help our students get a worldly experience and broaden their horizons. It will also help our college grow as well.