Currently working as the Head of the chemistry department at the prestigious Shivaji college-Delhi University (DU), Dr. Neena Khanna has an enriching 25 years of work experience in the teaching field. Before progressing in her career as a lecturer, she commenced her career as a research assistant at AIIMS, Delhi in the year 1996. She worked there for 2 years and then worked as a guest lecturer at the famous Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, Delhi University from 1998-99. She then worked as a part-time lecturer at Shivaji College for 1 year, where she is currently serving as the head of the chemistry department. She continued with her teaching stint at several prominent DU colleges such as Kirori Mal College, Maitreyi College, and Deshbandhu College for the next 7-8 years in the role of either Ad-hoc or part-time lecturer. She joined as an Assistant professor at Shivaji College in 2006 and got promoted as an Associate professor in 2011.

She has received numerous accolades on the professional front which are undoubtedly commendable. She presented a paper at the 2nd National Conference on Emerging Trends and Future Challenges in Chemical Sciences (ETFC 2020) which was organized by the Department of chemistry, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi. She was also the organizer of the National Conference on the Relationship between chemical science and Society (RCSS-2020) organized by the Department of chemistry, Shivaji College, University of Delhi. She also contributed as a resource person in the National Conference on Relationship between Chemical Sciences and society (RCSS- 2020) and in the Lab Skill Training workshop, 10th July to 14th July 2017 which was organized by the Department of chemistry, Shivaji College, University of Delhi. Her research paper on Biochemical Synthesis of coumarin glycosides: A Review was published by the Indian Chemical Society in 2020. Another feather to her cap was papers on the Study of New synthesized Cerium (IV) Iodo Arsenate: An Inorganic Cation- Exchanger and its applications and Synthesis and Characterization of Cerium (IV) Arsenomolybdate Cationic Exchanger co-authored by her were published by International Journal of Scientific and technical advancements and Asian Journal of Chemistry in 2017.

Shivaji College

Being a Faculty of your Department, what are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

Being a Faculty, I am responsible for planning and delivering high-quality lectures, and laboratory sessions with clear and relevant practical instructions to students, evaluating student performance through exams, assignments, presentations, and projects. I also mentor and guide students on academic matters, career paths, and personal development. 

I actively participate in departmental and college committees, attend meetings, and contribute to decision-making processes.I provide support and guidance to students outside the classroom, address concerns, provide feedback, and assistance to the students on academic or personal matters.

Last but not the least, I regularly attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay updated with the latest research and teaching methodologies.

How do you try to bring in a practical approach towards subjects and make it industry oriented?

Inviting professionals from relevant industries to give guest lectures or share their experiences can expose students to real-life applications of the subject and bring a practical approach. We take students on academic trips to Jamia Millia Islamia University and Delhi University campus to expose as well as familiarize students with real-life applications of the subject.

What are the best practices offered by the department to the students which help them gain the necessary skills?

We conduct Rastantrum departmental fest every year in which students participate in various activities. We organize skill development workshops and seminars on scientific writing, presentation skills, analytical techniques, and career guidance. Our non-teaching staff is efficient and provides support to students in practical classes. We offer research opportunities to our students, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

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How do you help your student to cope up with the competition being so high in the outside world?

We provide career counseling and guidance to help students make informed decisions about their future. We conduct mock interviews and tests to simulate real-world scenarios and prepare students for competitive examinations and job interviews. We actively engage with our alumni who have successfully navigated the competitive outside world.

What are the challenges you faced/ are facing to uplift the quality of education of your department?

Ensuring the continuous professional development of faculty members is crucial for enhancing the quality of education. However, With the upcoming new education policy, organizing faculty training programs, workshops, and conferences require dedicated time and resources. Providing opportunities for faculty to stay updated with advancements in their field and develop effective teaching methodologies can be challenging.

What do you see as the department’s/ college’s greatest strengths and how it can be enhanced?

One of the best things about the department is its experienced and dedicated faculty members who are passionate about teaching and research. The presence of state-of-the-art infrastructure and well-equipped laboratories is a significant strength of the college. The department's collaborations with industries and the availability of internship opportunities for students are valuable strengths.

What valuable advice would you like to the students for them to have a prosperous career ahead?

Follow your passion and choose a career path that aligns with your interests and strengths. When someone is passionate about their work, it brings fulfillment and motivates them to excel in their respective field. Communication skills are crucial in every career. Prolific written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively in teams can help individuals succeed in their chosen careers.

How does the department/College enhance the skills of the faculty and prepare them according to the industry standards?

The department organizes professional development programs and workshops for faculty members. The department encourages and supports faculty members to participate in conferences, seminars, and workshops related to their areas of expertise. These events offer opportunities to learn from leading experts, present their research work, and engage in discussions with peers. Summer training for lab staff happens for their skill improvement and also provides summer training to students.

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What are the interventions and approaches you bring in apart from curriculum to train/teach the students?

Students are provided with laboratory sessions, where they get to perform experiments, conduct research, and gain practical skills. Summer training is provided by the DBT Star college department of Chemistry on various topics like nanotechnology, nanoscience, and synthesis of organic compounds. The department invites guest speakers, industry experts, and researchers to deliver lectures and conduct workshops. These sessions expose students to diverse perspectives, emerging trends, and practical applications of their field.

How do you ensure that the courses offered at the college are up-to-date and aligned with industry trends and demands? Are there any mechanisms in place for regular curriculum review and updates?

Faculty review and update the curriculum periodically by adding new courses like Analytical Method of Chemistry, Green Method in Chemistry, cosmetics, and Perfumes, essential food Nutrients, IT skill and data Analysis, spectroscopy, quantum Chemistry, and Biomolecules. The college has an accredited A grade from NAAC. By aligning with these standards and seeking periodic reviews, the college ensures that its courses meet industry requirements and remain up-to-date.