Shivaji College, Teacher in Charge, Commerce Department: Mr. Rajesh Kumar Interview

Mr. Rajesh Kumar is the Associate Professor and Teacher in Charge of the Commerce Department at Shivaji College. He has a B.Com and an M.Com. degrees from Maharishi Dayanand University. Furthermore, he qualified for the UGC NET in Commerce in the year 2000. Mr. Kumar has 19 years of work experience, during which he has published over five papers in his area of specialization. He also won the Excellence in Education award from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Teachers Award in 2010.

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

As the head of the commerce department, I am committed to creating an innovative and development-oriented learning environment for our students. As a faculty member, my primary responsibility is to provide quality education to the students. I strive to create an engaging and interactive learning atmosphere, deliver lectures effectively, and facilitate discussions. I also mentor and guide students, provide academic support, monitor their progress, and offer career guidance.

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

To bring a practical approach to subjects, we incorporate case studies, real-world examples, and simulations into the curriculum. We regularly invite industry experts as guest speakers, organize industrial visits, and encourage internships and practical training opportunities. By integrating practical experiences, students can bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing them for the industry.

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

The Commerce department offers various best practices such as skill development workshops, seminars, and guest lectures by professionals. We encourage students to participate in co-curricular activities, including student clubs, competitions, and projects. Moreover, we also provide opportunities for students to engage in research, attend exconferences, and publish their work to enhance their skills.

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

To help students cope with competition, we emphasize the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. We conduct mock interviews, group discussions, and aptitude tests to improve their employability skills. Additionally, career counselling sessions and mentorship programs are also held to guide them towards their desired career paths.

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

Some challenges in uplifting the quality of education may include outdated curricula, lack of resources, and limited exposure to industry practices. However, we address these challenges by conducting regular curriculum reviews, seeking feedback from students and industry experts, and advocating for necessary updates and improvements. I also explore partnerships with industries and seek funding for research and infrastructure development.

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

The department's greatest strengths lie in its dedicated faculty, motivated students, and supportive administrative staff. To enhance these strengths, I try to promote a culture of continuous learning and professional development among faculty members. I encourage collaborative research and foster partnerships with industries to provide students with practical exposure. Additionally, I establish alumni networks and industry connections to facilitate mentorship and internship opportunities.

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

I would advise students to focus on holistic development by actively participating in co-curricular activities, networking with professionals, and seeking internships. It is essential to stay updated with industry trends, continuously upgrade their skills, and develop a growth mindset. Emphasizing the importance of ethics, integrity, and perseverance, I encourage them to pursue their passion and be adaptable to changes in the dynamic professional world.

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

The department and the college enhance the skills of the faculty by providing opportunities for faculty development programs, attending conferences, and engaging in research activities. We encourage the faculty members to collaborate with industry experts, participate in workshops, and pursue higher degrees. Continuous assessment and feedback from students and industry partners also ensures that faculty members are aligned with industry standards.

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

Apart from the curriculum, I believe in incorporating various interventions and approaches to train and teach the students. Inviting industry professionals to deliver guest lectures and share their experiences and insights to help students gain practical knowledge and understand industry expectations. Conducting workshops and training sessions on specific skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. These programs help students enhance their employability and soft skills.

Encouraging students to work on real-world projects that require them to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios. Facilitating internships and establishing collaborations with industry partners. This provides students with hands-on experience, exposure to industry practices, and the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. I am also a convener of the Entrepreneurship Cell (E-cell) of Shivaji College where we encourage students to develop entrepreneurial skills and fostering innovation through entrepreneurship programs, business plan competitions, and startup incubation. This helps students develop a mindset of innovation and prepares them for self-employment.

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?

We conduct regular assessments of student learning outcomes and evaluate the effectiveness of our courses. This allows us to identify any gaps or areas where improvements are needed and make necessary adjustments to the curriculum accordingly. Based on the data gathered, we collaboratively make changes to our course curriculum.