Prof.N.Sunil Kumar is the Professor and Dean of BMSSA at BMS School of Architecture. He is an accomplished and visionary academic leader with extensive experience in architectural education. He is not only dedicated to fostering academic excellence, and innovative teaching methodologies but also to creating a stimulating learning environment.

Professor Kumar is a dedicated Associate Professor with 11 years of teaching experience and a passion for higher education. He is committed to fostering a stimulating and inclusive learning environment. conducted lectures, seminars, and workshops in Building Construction Developed and implemented innovative teaching methods and materials to engage students actively.

BMS School of Architecture

Being a Faculty of the BMS School of Architecture - [BMSSA], what are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

As a faculty member at the BMS School of Architecture, my roles and responsibilities towards the students are multifaceted for their academic and personal growth. My primary goal is to deliver high-quality lectures, conduct practical sessions, and facilitate discussions to ensure students grasp the subject matter effectively. I also take part in the design and development of courses to meet the evolving needs of students and the industry. I try to be available to support students in various aspects of their academic journey, including resolving conflicts, addressing personal challenges, and promoting a positive learning environment. Overall, I try to enforce academic integrity and ensure that students adhere to ethical standards in their academic work.

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

We are doing a lot that can be categorized as best practises. For instance, we provide opportunities for students to participate in internships and experiential learning programmes with industry partners to gain practical experience and apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. We organize workshops and training sessions focused on developing essential skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, teamwork, and time management. We have career counseling and support services to help students identify their strengths, interests, and career goals, and guide them towards suitable career paths. We also encourage project-based learning approaches where students work on hands-on projects that require research, analysis, and problem-solving skills.

What are your views on the placements and higher education of the students from your department or How does your department prepare students for Higher education?

Our college departments prioritize the employability and success of their students in the job market or further academic pursuits. Our successful placement record reflects positively on the department’s and the institution’s efforts as a whole, and it demonstrates the quality of education and training provided. We provide academic counseling to help students explore their interests and career goals. The college advisors guide them in choosing appropriate courses and deciding on higher education paths. Some departments offer resources and support to help students prepare for standardised tests required for admission to higher education institutions, such as the GRE, GMAT, or TOEFL. Faculty members also write strong letters of recommendation for students applying to higher education institutions. Positive recommendations can significantly impact admission decisions.

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

We provide personalized career counseling to help students identify their strengths, interests, and career goals. We guide them towards building a career path aligned with their passions and capabilities. We offer workshops and training sessions to develop essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and adaptability. Our teachers also equip students with skills that are in demand in the job market. Occasionally, we organize industry visits, guest lectures, and internships to expose students to real-world scenarios and industry practices. This first-hand experience helps them understand the competitive landscape. We also have established mentorship programmes where experienced professionals or alumni guide students in their academic and career journeys. Mentors can provide valuable insights and support.

How does the curriculum of your department/college ensures the best practice of the industry?

All the departments in our college can actively seek input from industry professionals, employers, and alumni to understand current trends, skill requirements, and challenges. This feedback shapes our curriculum design and updates. We have advisory boards comprised of industry representatives who can provide ongoing guidance and ensure that the curriculum remains relevant to industry needs. We also have curriculum committees with faculty members and industry experts who review and update the curriculum regularly based on industry advancements. The college placement cell offers internships and opportunities for students to work on real-world industry projects, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings.

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

A department with a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members, whose expertise can be further enhanced through continuous professional development programmes, research opportunities, and collaborations with industry professionals is a major strength. A strong focus on research and innovation, allocating more resources, and establishing research centers or labs can further strengthen its research capabilities and impact, which sets us apart from other colleges. We also have established partnerships with industries, nurturing and expanding these collaborations can offer more opportunities for internships, industry projects, and guest lectures, enriching students' experiences and enhancing the department's relevance to real-world challenges. Our department also has a strong alumni network; engaging with alumni for mentorship, career guidance, and guest lectures can provide valuable support and networking opportunities for current students.

What is the latest program that you are offering in your institute/dept. which will help students outperform and stand apart from the crowd?

Currently, we have programmes that are industry-specific certifications. They aim at training, and giving students a competitive edge in their chosen fields. Another programme we offer is dedicated to sustainable practises and environmental awareness, addressing pressing global challenges and promoting green initiatives. The college also has a programme exploring the potential of virtual and augmented reality technologies, enabling students to create immersive experiences and applications.

What are the best practices in the course you’re offering?

We define clear and specific learning objectives for the course, outlining what students are expected to achieve by the end of the program. We use a variety of engaging and interactive content, such as videos, animations, quizzes, and case studies, to keep students motivated and interested. Our curriculum incorporates active learning strategies that encourage student participation, collaboration, and critical thinking, such as group discussions, debates, and problem-solving activities. Furthermore, we provide opportunities for students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios through projects, internships, or industry collaborations. We also implement regular formative assessments and provide timely feedback to help students track their progress and make improvements.

What are some valuable insights of the program that you are offering at your institute/dept.?

Our programme has a well-designed, up-to-date curriculum that aligns with industry trends and demands, offering students the latest knowledge and skills. It emphasis on hands-on learning and practical application of concepts, enabling students to gain real-world experience. We have also integrated industry projects, internships, or partnerships within the programme, allowing students to connect with the professional world and apply their skills in real settings. We also have a team of experienced and knowledgeable faculty members who can guide and mentor students effectively. The college also provides opportunities for research and innovation that enable students to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their field.

How does the program ensure that students are being prepared for the future?

We try to keep our programme forward-looking curriculum that includes emerging trends, technologies, and industry developments relevant to the future job market. We emphasize critical thinking and problem-solving skills that equip students to tackle complex challenges they may encounter in their future careers. We try to teach adaptability and resilience, which prepare students to navigate uncertainties and changes that may arise in their professional lives. We also make it a point to integrate technology and digital literacy into the program to ensure that students are prepared for a tech-driven future and can leverage digital tools effectively.