Dr. Bishnu Pal is a Professor of Physics and the Dean of the School of Engineering and Academics at Mahindra University. He served at Mahindra École Centrale (MU) right from its beginning in July 2014 until June 2017 as a Professor of Physics in the School of Natural Sciences, and then for one year he was a Consulting Professor in Physics at the Times Group’s Bennett University in Greater Noida. He rejoined MU in July 2018 as Dean of Academics. Prior to these, he was a Professor of Physics for over 24 years since 1990 at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, during which he served as the Chairperson of the Physics Department and Head of the Computer Services Centre.

Dr. Pal has been deeply involved in guided wave optics and photonics education since its nascent days in the mid-1975s. He had played a key role in establishing and running the highly successful interdisciplinary M.Tech. and research program on Optoelectronics and Optical Communication and a teaching and research laboratory in fibre optics at IIT Delhi. A spin-off from this has resulted in the commercialization of a Fiber Optics Educational Kit among several national and internationally sponsored mega research projects.

Professor Pal was a Member of the Board of Directors of OSA The Optical Society (USA), its International Council and the Long-Term Planning Group for publications. He was President of the Optical Society of India, Associate Vice President of the IEEE Photonics Society’s Membership Council, and a member of the International Jury for the Galileo Galilei Prize of the International Commission of Optics and the Sang Soo Lee Award, jointly awarded by the Optical Society of Korea (OSK) and Optica (USA). He has been on the organising technical programme committees of over 50 reputed international conferences and workshops and has guest edited over ten special topical issues of several international journals.

Mahindra University

You held key positions at various prestigious institutions throughout your career. What is that one thing that made you excited and walk with Mahindra University in the journey?

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of holding key positions at some of the most prestigious institutions in the fields of engineering and education. These experiences have provided me with valuable insights into the academic world, allowing me to witness the transformational impact that education can have on individuals and society. When I was approached by Mahindra University, there was one aspect that truly stood out to me and ignited my enthusiasm for this new endeavour, the university's unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and holistic education. Mahindra University has a unique vision that goes beyond traditional educational paradigms. It aims to cultivate not just exceptional engineers but well-rounded individuals who are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century. This holistic approach to education aligns closely with my own beliefs and values. 

How do you balance the needs of faculty, students, and administration as a Dean of Ecole Centrale?

As the Dean of Ecole Centrale at Mahindra University, I prioritise a collaborative approach to balance the diverse needs of faculty, students, and administration. Our institution's success hinges on effective communication and shared goals. We foster an environment where faculty expertise is recognised, students' academic journeys are supported, and administrative functions streamline operations. This synergy enables us to deliver a holistic educational experience that propels our students towards excellence. Balancing the needs of faculty, students, and administration is an ongoing and complex task. It requires a commitment to open communication, shared governance, and a student-centric approach, all within the context of a well-defined strategic vision. By working collaboratively and valuing the contributions of each stakeholder group, we aim to create a vibrant and harmonious academic community at Ecole Centrale - School of Engineering.

As a Dean of the School of Engineering what is the USP or what are the differentiating factors that make Mahindra University stand out from other colleges?

Mahindra University prides itself on a commitment to excellence, innovation, and holistic education, and it is these key principles that shape our distinctiveness. Mahindra University places a strong emphasis on innovative pedagogical approaches to adopt modern teaching methods, including experiential learning, project-based learning, and the integration of emerging technologies into the curriculum. One of the standout features of Mahindra University is our deep integration with industry. We have established strong collaboration with leading companies, providing our students with opportunities for internships, industry projects, and mentorship. Our graduates have gone on to excel in their careers and have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Mahindra University places a strong emphasis on global exposure and collaborations. We have established partnerships with renowned international universities and institutions, enabling our students to engage in exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and internships abroad. Our curriculum is designed to foster an interdisciplinary approach to engineering education. We believe that the most innovative solutions to complex challenges come from the convergence of various disciplines.

How do you stay current with the latest trends and developments in the field of Engineering and incorporate them into the curriculum and programs offered by Mahindra University?

Ensuring that our curriculum and programmes at Mahindra University remain at the forefront of the ever-evolving field of engineering is a top priority for us. Our faculty members, who are experts in their respective engineering disciplines, actively engage in ongoing research and professional development. Mahindra University maintains strong partnerships with leading engineering companies and organisations, which provide valuable insights into industry trends and requirements, enabling us to align our curriculum with the needs of the job market. Engineering is increasingly becoming interdisciplinary. We encourage collaboration between different departments and schools within the university to foster innovation and incorporate multidisciplinary approaches into our programmws. We actively involve our students in the curriculum development process. We leverage this diversity to incorporate best practices into our curriculum.

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How well is Mahindra University focusing on maintaining industry relationships with companies in order to leverage them for live projects, training, and placements for the students?

At Mahindra University, we firmly believe that an academic institution's success is intricately linked to its ability to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. We have established robust partnerships with a diverse range of companies, both national and international, spanning various sectors. These partnerships are cultivated through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), collaborative research projects, and frequent interactions between our faculty and industry experts. We regularly organize industry-academia conclaves and seminars that serve as platforms for dialogue and knowledge exchange between our faculty, students, and industry experts. These events provide an opportunity for our students to network with professionals, understand market trends, and explore career prospects. Our success in this endeavor is evidenced by the achievements of our graduates and the continued support and engagement of our industry partners. We remain dedicated to further strengthening these relationships, ensuring that our students continue to excel in their careers and contribute significantly to the industries they serve.

What measures would you take to ensure that Mahindra University provides a conducive learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure?

First and foremost, creating a conducive learning environment begins with a dedicated focus on academic excellence. To ensure that our students have access to cutting-edge resources and facilities, we have made significant investments in our infrastructure. Our laboratories are equipped with the latest technology and equipment, enabling students to engage in hands-on learning experiences. We have research centers and innovation hubs that promote interdisciplinary collaboration and encourage students to pursue innovative projects. Our library uses the KOHA software package which is an integrated multi-user library automation management system that supports all in-house activities of the library and deploys an RFID (Radio Frequency Identifier) automation system and circulation system. Mahindra University places a strong emphasis on technology-enabled learning. We have implemented a robust Learning Management System (LMS) that provides students with easy access to course materials, lecture recordings, and online resources. This digital platform allows for flexible learning, ensuring that students can access educational materials anytime, anywhere. Additionally, we are continuously upgrading our IT infrastructure to keep pace with the ever-evolving technological landscape.

What are the biggest challenges currently facing by Engineering colleges, and how do you plan to address them as a dean?

One of the foremost challenges for engineering colleges is staying abreast of rapid technological advancements. The tech landscape evolves swiftly, and engineering curricula must keep pace. As Dean, I plan to establish a dedicated committee for curriculum revision and enhancement. This committee will comprise industry experts, faculty members, and students to ensure that programmws align with current industry needs. We intend to expand international collaborations, encourage student and faculty exchange programs, and facilitate joint research initiatives with renowned universities worldwide. My vision is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and a student-centric approach to education. By focusing on these key areas, my aim is to position Mahindra University as a leading institution in engineering education and produce graduates who are not only technically adept but also well-prepared for the dynamic challenges of the modern world.

How would you promote experiential learning and practical application of knowledge within the College?

At Ecole Centrale - School of Engineering, we are committed to offering a holistic and comprehensive education that extends beyond traditional classroom learning. We recognise the importance of experiential learning in preparing our students for real-world challenges and enhancing their problem-solving skills. To promote experiential learning and the practical application of knowledge, we have adopted a multifaceted approach, including project-based learning, internships and industry collaborations, laboratories and research centers, hackathons and competitions, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

What kind of steps Mahindra University is taking in order to bridge the gap between academia and the real industry world?

Mahindra University’s commitment to fostering a seamless bridge between academia and the real industry world has led it to implement a comprehensive set of initiatives that demonstrate its dedication to producing job-ready graduates and contributing to industry advancements. The university conducts regular curriculum reviews, incorporating feedback from industry experts, to ensure that students acquire the latest knowledge and skills demanded by the job market. Courses are updated to reflect technological advancements and emerging industry trends. It offers students opportunities for internships, co-op programs, and industry projects, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. Recognising the importance of soft skills in the workplace, Mahindra University offers programs and workshops that focus on communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Mahindra University's commitment to bridging the gap between academia and the real industry world is reflected in its holistic approach, which encompasses curriculum development, experiential learning, industry collaborations, innovation, and ongoing improvement efforts. These initiatives not only produce industry-ready graduates but also contribute to the growth and innovation of the industries they serve.