Dr. Manju Dua is the Principal of KL Dayanand Mehta College for Women. She has 36 years of experience at the institute and she has also served as an Assistant Professor. With an M.A. degree, she earned a PhD from Punjab University. Dr. Dua has attended numerous conferences internationally, in Australia and Athens and nationally as well. She is a member of the District State Association of Cricket and the Selection Committee of the MDU of Basketball and she is the President of the Executive Sports Committee.

KL Dayanand Mehta College For Women

Can you tell me about your educational background?

I have an M.A. degree in Physical Education for which I secured a gold medal. Thereafter, I earned a PhD as well. I have a total of over 37 years of experience in academia and currently work as the Principal of KL Dayanand Mehta College for Women. 

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?

The key factors which have contributed to my working in academia are being able to serve the community, particularly the girls students and uplift their lives towards the goal of ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padao.’ I have a sense of pride in being able to convert my students into responsible citizens of India. I enjoy working with them and persuading them to contribute towards the country as productive human resources and motivating them to participate in sports and other extracurricular activities.

What is your philosophy of leadership? How would you describe your leadership style?

I believe in a democratic style of leadership. I believe everyone should participate in the process. I intend to share responsibility with my team. I usually respect my team, listen to their ideas and inspire them when needed. I usually move ahead with my teammates with trust and honesty. I think it would increase the efficiency of the team members.

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

Our institute puts efforts in the direction of aligning with industry demands and making sure there is an availability of talent among our students. Our BBA and BCA faculties are pursuing efforts in this direction. The review of the curriculum and the rest of the programs is under way as we try to connect with the emerging needs of the industry.

What do you think should be the university’s top priority over the next 10 years?

Our institution is working and planning towards implementing the guidelines of the National Education Policy (NEP, 2020). We are also putting efforts into fulfilling the directions of M.D.U. Rohtak, as our college is affiliated with this university. We will have more new courses and update our curriculum as per industry movements.

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When you first came to your institute, what was your vision for the college? Has it evolved over time, and how far along in implementing that vision are you?

My vision for the college and for all stakeholders was to guide them when I first joined the college. Over time, it has evolved to work with students to channel their energy in a constructive manner. I will help them to create a balance between study hours and leisure hours so that they are not burned out.

What would you like people to know about your college they may not know?

I wish people would know that we are working to establish a highly supportive and protective environment for female students. We want to educate and prepare them to achieve any goal in their careers. We are working towards preparing them to be aspirants of higher education or work if they want to.

What do you see as college’s greatest strengths?

I see several significant strengths in our college. Firstly, our dedication to enhancing the interpersonal skills of students and teaching staff is one of our standout features. We believe that effective communication, teamwork, and interpersonal abilities are essential life skills, and we integrate them into our educational approach. Additionally, our commitment to providing ample placement opportunities is a testament to our focus on practical outcomes for our students. We have established strong connections with industry partners and created pathways for our graduates to transition into their desired careers. These strengths, combined with our supportive learning environment, well-equipped facilities, and diverse and inclusive community, make our college an ideal place for students to learn and grow.

How is your relationship with the students of your college?

My relationship with the students of our college is characterised by a strong emphasis on fostering a healthy, interactive, and harmonious environment. I believe in open communication and approachability, which allow students to feel comfortable discussing their concerns, ideas, and aspirations. I actively engage with students through various channels, including regular meetings, open forums, and events, to understand their needs and provide guidance. This collaborative approach contributes to a positive and enriching educational experience for both the students and the institution.

What are the challenges faced as a part of your institute?

As an educational institution, one of our central challenges is ensuring the holistic development of our female students. While we are dedicated to empowering them with knowledge and ethical values, we also face various hurdles in this pursuit. These challenges encompass issues such as gender disparities in access to education, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment, addressing socio-economic barriers, and promoting a strong sense of self-worth and empowerment among our female students. We continually strive to overcome these challenges, working to create a nurturing and empowering educational environment that equips our female students with the tools they need to succeed in their academic and personal journeys.

Any suggestions/messages that you would like to give to the current youth?

I encourage the current youth to strive for a harmonious balance between their academic pursuits and recreational activities. While education is undoubtedly important, it's equally vital to take time for leisure, relaxation, and personal growth. Implementing time management skills in a genuine sense is a key to success. Efficiently allocating your time to various tasks and responsibilities, setting priorities, and adhering to schedules can significantly enhance your productivity. It's a skill that will serve you well throughout your life, helping you juggle academics, personal interests, and future career demands.