Mr. Karan Aggarwal is the President at Banarsi Dass Arya College and is the Director of B.D. Steels Limited, Delhi. He has done B.Com (Hons) from Delhi University and MBA from IIFT Delhi. He has over 10 years of Industry experience. 

Banarsi Dass Arya College

What are the key factors that keep you connected with the education sector?

Education is an essential sector that shapes the future of individuals, communities and nations. Being a part of this sector provides a chance to make a positive impact by imparting knowledge, skills and values to students. As the president of the College Management Committee, I take on this responsibility seriously and make all endeavors to keep myself connected with the education sector. The management regularly visits the college and accepts positive suggestions from the Principal, staff representatives and the students. While framing an action plan for all operations and incorporation of strategic plans for development of the college, the guidelines received from the UGC, the DPI Colleges and University notifications are taken into consideration. Factors like the desire to make a positive impact, continuous-learning, collaborative work and a sense of purpose keeps me connected with the education sector. I believe in updating my own knowledge, interacting with my peer members from other educational institutions and keeping the interest of all the stakeholders in the forefront.

Being the President of B.D. Arya College, what is your philosophy of leadership ? How would you describe your leadership style?

My philosophy of leadership as the president of a premier institution of higher education encompasses a number of key principles that can be the guiding force. The college should prioritize the success and well being of the students, be visionary and collaborative, be grounded in ethical and value based principles, and be committed to continuous improvement. This can be achieved by promoting professional development opportunities for faculty and staff and also encouraging innovation and experimentation in teaching and learning. One must uphold the core values of the college such as academic excellence, diversity and inclusion, and social responsibility. Be adaptable to the changing circumstances and incorporating new ideas and technologies into the college’s operation. Adopt a student centered approach and provide a healthy conducive learning environment by providing equal opportunities for all students to thrive.

How do you strategize about the key programs and plans for the marketing administration of your school?

The strategy adopted is to offer a student a wide array of subjects / disciplines to choose from according to his / her aptitude and learning goals. Along with traditional programmes the stress is on skill development courses. Requirements of the industry and MOU’s with industries are also kept in mind while offering programmes of study to the students. A number of marketing tools are adopted by the administration. The college website is regularly updated with all notifications and activities concerning the academic and administrative matters. Additional efforts are made by the teaching and non-teaching staff as they participate in educational fairs, visit various institutes, give pamphlets, show presentations regarding the infrastructure and activities of the college and use social media platforms to connect with all our stakeholders. We work to have a strong network of our alumni who are willing to be our brand ambassadors and also offer scholarships, fee concession and discounts to meritorious and needy students, Organising Inter- school, Inter- college competitions, school visits to our institutions holding summer camps and offering affordable coaching and hobby classes are some of the means adopted to give a first hand experience/ exposure to our conducive, learning environment and thereby inducing students to join our institution. .

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

Adopting dual degree programmes and implementation of the new education policy (NEP) will give benefits to the students to take up hybrid i.e inter and intra-multi disciplinary courses. A synthesis of theoretical, practical and vocational courses are now accessible to the students. The option of exit is also there before the completion of the full programme. Students can have a certificate course, diploma, degree or honors degree as the practice is in foreign institutions. The management is fully aware of the latest changes taking place in the field of higher-education and will endeavor to offer the best on our campus.

Check Banarsi Dass Arya College Courses & Fees

How does the curriculum of B. D. Arya ensures the best practice of industry?

In order to make our students competent for the global job market, every opportunity is created to impart practical training along with a strong theoretical base. Hands-on-job training is arranged within and outside the campus for the students who have opted for vocational subjects / courses. Guest lecturers, seminars and workshops by experts from different professions are organized in the institution. Opportunities are created to give students industrial training and having MOU with industry.

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

Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for students of different races backgrounds requires a deliberate effort and a long term commitment from the college administration. It involves building a diverse and inclusive community, offering supportive services and resources, providing opportunities for dialogue and engagement, addressing bias and multiculturalism. Keeping these in view the college ensures that there is no discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, gender, the rich and the poor. Personal counseling and grievances are addressed immediately. Anti – ragging and sexual harassment prevention cells are operational within the campus. A uniform code of conduct is there for the welfare of the students. The college celebrates multiculturalism by promoting cultural awareness and understanding through extra co-curricular activities and curriculum. The Central Association of students and other cells / bodies aid in these spheres. The college tries to provide supportive services and resources by means of financial aid, mentorship programmes, academic support services and cultural clubs and organizations. Every attempt is made here to create an environment that is welcoming and respectful of all races, cultures and backgrounds.

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

The role and responsibilities of the college President are multifaceted and require a deep commitment to the college’s mission, vision and values. He is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the college in consultation with the board of trustees, senior management team, the principal and other stakeholders. The president must ensure the college’s financial sustainability by overseeing the budget, monitoring financial performance and ensuring the financial resources are used efficiently and effectively. This includes fund raising and developing partnerships with other institutions. Ensuring compliance is also my responsibility. It is my responsibility to work collaboratively with other stakeholders to promote quality education by setting standards of academic programs, promote research and innovation, and ensure the educational programmes meet the needs of students and society. Building and maintaining relationships with the board of trustees, faculty, students, alumni, donors and community partners is also my area of responsibility. Providing a safe and supportive learning environment, offering academic and support services, promoting diversity and inclusivity, and fostering a sense of Community and belonging also falls in the preview of my responsibilities. Ensuring the success and wellbeing of the college community is my paramount duty. 

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

Hundred percent job placement should be the target. The framing of the syllabus and policies should be in keeping in mind the future projections of the human resources. The top priority should be to provide a curriculum that meets the aspirations of students at the international level.

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

Banarsi Dass Arya College is affiliated to Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar since its inception in 1970. Over the years GNDU, Amritsar, has progressed by leaps and bounds. As per the NAAC ranking it stands tall among the top ranking universities of the region and of the country. Our university has a maximum number of MOU’s with industries and different universities. It has an excellent job placement record within the country and also in foreign lands. It's a matter of pride to be associated with this university.

What do you see as B. D. Arya College’s greatest strengths?

The locational advantage of the college; the indomitable will and the missionary zeal of the management to make quality, value-based job-oriented education accessible to the youth from urban, rural and financially weaker sections of the society is the greatest strength of the college. The infrastructure and the team work of the management, the students and the staff helps in sustaining us.

What are some of the biggest challenges you see, both for higher education in general and for B. D. Arya College specifically?

Ans. Financial crunch, not enough opportunities for job placements, stiff competitions from foreign universities that are setting up their campuses within our country and also offering online programmes of study. Preventing the exodus of students after 10+2 to lands of opportunities and dreams are some of the major challenges of higher education and our college/ university.

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

I would like to encourage the youth and aspiring students to stay focused, work hard, seek out opportunities for growth and development and stay true to their passions and interests. With dedication, perseverance, and a strong support system, they can achieve their goals and realize their full potential. The student must seek mentorship, network and build relationships with peers, professors, alumni, stay informed and balanced, embrace challenges and not be afraid of taking risks and stepping out of their comfort zone. Thereafter, success will be theirs.

How do you intend to establish a healthy relationship and environment in your institute?

Creating a healthy environment in a college requires a collaborative effort from all members of the college community. As a college president, it's important to prioritize the success of students and create an environment that supports their growth and development. The following measures could help: Building trust, encouraging open and transparent communication among faculty staff, and students so that everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and opinion, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating diversity. Encourage dialogue and respectful exchange of ideas among people from different backgrounds, cultures and perspectives.

Students must be encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities organized by various clubs and organizations in the college. Promote opportunities for collaboration and teamwork. Encourage feedback, address concerns in a timely and effective manner and promote continuances improvement by implementing change based on feedback.

Celebrate success and accomplishments together and foster a sense of community by promoting shared values and goals. As a president / chairman of the college, I must lead by example by modeling the behavior and values that I want to promote in the college community.