Mr. Tapan Kumar Shandilya is the Vice Chancellor of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University, formerly known as Ranchi College. Prior to his current position, he served as the Vice Chancellor of several prestigious institutions, including Veer Kunwar Singh University in Arrah, Bihar, and Nalanda Open University in Patna, Bihar. He also held the position of Pro Vice-Chancellor at Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University in Bhagalpur. Since the university’s establishment in 2018, he has taken on the role of the second Vice Chancellor of this esteemed university. 

Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University


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

As the Vice Chancellor of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University, my roles and responsibilities are multifaceted and encompass various aspects of university administration and student welfare. Firstly, my foremost responsibility is to ensure that the university operates smoothly and efficiently. This involves overseeing the day-to-day functioning of the institution, managing administrative affairs, and ensuring that all academic and non-academic activities run seamlessly. Additionally, I am dedicated to providing the best possible educational experience for our students. This includes implementing policies and initiatives that enhance the quality of education, fostering a conducive learning environment, and promoting academic excellence. I understand the importance of equipping our students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields, and I strive to ensure that our curriculum remains relevant and up-to-date. Furthermore, I am focused on promoting research and innovation within the university. Encouraging faculty members and students to engage in research activities, collaborating with other institutions, and fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity are integral parts of my responsibilities. I believe that research is essential for the growth and advancement of the university and contributes to the overall development of society. In summary, my roles and responsibilities as the Vice Chancellor of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University revolve around ensuring the smooth functioning of the institution, providing high-quality education, addressing the needs of our students, and fostering an environment of research and innovation. I am fully committed to serving the university and its stakeholders to the best of my abilities and striving for continuous growth and excellence.


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

The top priority for Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University over the next 10 years is to focus on enhancing the quality of education and ensuring the holistic development of students. We aim to provide our students with a well-rounded education that equips them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This will enable them to meet the demands of the industry and contribute meaningfully to society. To achieve this, we are committed to implementing various measures. Firstly, we strive to improve the infrastructure and facilities within the university campus. Upgrading classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and other learning spaces is crucial to create a conducive environment for effective teaching and learning. Secondly, we prioritize faculty development and research. Encouraging our faculty members to enhance their knowledge and expertise through research and professional development programs ensures that they deliver high-quality education to our students. By promoting research activities, we aim to foster a culture of innovation and contribute to the body of knowledge in various fields. Lastly, we prioritize the overall well-being and personal development of our students. We offer a range of co-curricular activities, sports, cultural events, and student clubs to encourage their participation and nurture their talents. We also provide counseling and support services to ensure their mental and emotional well-being. Our top priority over the next 10 years is to uplift the quality of education, promote research and innovation, strengthen industry-academia linkages, foster interdisciplinary learning, and prioritize the holistic development of our students. By focusing on these areas, we aim to position Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University as a leading institution of higher education and produce well-rounded graduates who are ready to excel in their chosen fields.


Being the VC of this University, how do you strategize about the key programs and plans for the marketing and administration of your university and how do you help your student to cope with the competition being so high in the outside world?

As the Vice Chancellor of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University, I am actively involved in strategizing key programs and plans for the marketing and administration of the university. We understand the importance of promoting our institution and reaching out to potential students and stakeholders. To effectively market the university, we employ various strategies. We organize seminars, workshops, and conferences that feature industrial experts and educational specialists as guest speakers. These events provide our students with valuable insights into industry trends, emerging technologies, and career opportunities. By inviting renowned personalities to share their expertise, we ensure that our students stay updated with the latest developments in their respective fields. We also encourage our faculty members and heads of departments to organize departmental seminars and workshops. These platforms facilitate knowledge exchange, encourage research collaboration, and enhance the academic environment within the university. By empowering our faculty and providing opportunities for professional development, we ensure that they deliver quality education and contribute to the growth of their respective disciplines. By focusing on a well-rounded education, industry collaborations, and extensive student support, we strive to empower our students to excel and face the challenges of the outside world with confidence and competence. Our ultimate goal is to produce graduates who are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the necessary skills, values, and mindset to make a positive impact in society.

Check Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University Courses & Fees


Being the VC of this University, what is your philosophy of leadership? How would you describe your leadership style?

As the Vice Chancellor of this university, I strongly believe in the significance of leadership in driving the growth and development of an institution. I consider my role as a leader to be instrumental in shaping the direction and progress of the university. My leadership philosophy revolves around fostering a sense of unity, collaboration, and stakeholders of the university. I believe in creating an inclusive and supportive environment where faculty, staff, and students work together towards a common goal. By promoting a culture of brotherhood and teamwork, we can collectively contribute to the growth and success of the university. In terms of my leadership style, I strive to be approachable, transparent, and receptive to the ideas and concerns of others. I encourage open communication and constructive feedback from all members of the university community. By creating a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas, we foster an environment where everyone’s voices are heard and valued. One of my key focuses as a leader is to promote a strong educational environment and research culture within the university. I believe in the transformative power of research and its impact on academic excellence. Therefore, I work closely with faculty members to encourage and support research initiatives. By providing the necessary resources, infrastructure, and guidance, we aim to promote a vibrant research ecosystem and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in our respective fields. Ultimately, my leadership style is characterized by a strong commitment to the well-being and development of our university. I firmly believe that by fostering a positive and collaborative environment, promoting research and innovation, and embracing a culture of continuous improvement, we can position our university as a leading institution in the region and beyond.


What do you see as College’s greatest strengths? Any insights into how your university could be more welcoming to students of different races or economic backgrounds?

The greatest strength of our university lies in its reputation and recognition as one of the premier institutions in Jharkhand. We have a significant number of students enrolling in both vocational and non-vocational departments, with approximately 15,000 to 16,000 admissions every year. This demonstrates the trust and preference students have in our university for their higher education. One of our key priorities is to ensure that our university remains inclusive and welcoming to students from different races and economic backgrounds. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all students, irrespective of their backgrounds, to access quality education and succeed in their academic pursuits. To make our university more welcoming to students from diverse backgrounds, we have implemented several initiatives. Firstly, we provide financial support and scholarships to economically disadvantaged students, enabling them to pursue their studies without financial constraints. These scholarships aim to bridge the gap and ensure that no deserving student is left behind due to financial limitations. Secondly, we promote diversity and inclusivity through various student support services and programs. We encourage student organizations and clubs that celebrate different cultures, languages, and traditions, fostering an environment where students feel valued and respected for their individual identities. Additionally, we are constantly striving to enhance our outreach efforts to underrepresented communities, creating awareness about the educational opportunities available at our university. We collaborate with schools, community organizations, and local authorities to provide information and guidance to students who may not have easy access to higher education resources.


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

As the Vice Chancellor of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University, one of our primary objectives is to equip our students with the necessary skills and abilities to cope with the high levels of competition in the outside world. We understand that the job market is highly competitive, and it is crucial for our students to stand out and excel in their chosen fields. To help our students cope with this competition, we have implemented various measures and programs. One of our key initiatives is the provision of special training programs focused on personality development and communication skills. We believe that these skills are essential for students to effectively present themselves and communicate their ideas and abilities in a professional setting. Through these training programs, we aim to enhance our students' confidence, presentation skills, and overall personality enabling them to make a positive impression during interviews and other selection processes. We provide them with guidance on interview techniques, resume writing, and other aspects of the job application process. Additionally, we offer career counseling and guidance services to help students explore different career options and make informed decisions about their future. We provide them with information about industry trends, job market demands, and the skills required to excel in their chosen fields. This empowers our students to make strategic choices and develop the necessary skills to succeed in their desired careers. By combining academic excellence with practical training, industry exposure, and career guidance, we strive to prepare our students to cope with the high levels of competition in the outside world. We aim to develop their skills, nurture their talents, and instill in them the confidence and capabilities required to thrive and succeed in their chosen professions.

Click Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University Placements


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

To the current youth and aspiring students, my suggestion is to take the time to introspect and identify your true interests and passions. It is important to have a clear vision and set realistic goals for your academic and professional journey. Consider the field of study that aligns with your interests and strengths, whether it be in science, commerce, arts, engineering, medicine, agriculture, or any other sector. Once you have identified your field of interest, dedicate yourself wholeheartedly to your chosen path. Be prepared to put in the hard work, commitment, and perseverance required to excel in your chosen field. Seek opportunities to gain practical exposure and experience in your area of interest through internships, research projects, or industry collaborations. In addition to academic pursuits, focus on developing your soft skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. These skills are highly valued in today’s dynamic and competitive world and will help you navigate challenges and seize opportunities. I encourage you to remain open-minded and embrace continuous learning. Stay updated with the latest developments in your field and actively seek out opportunities for personal and professional growth. Participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences to expand your knowledge and network with professionals in your field. Lastly, remember that success is not solely defined by academic achievements or career accomplishments. Strive to maintain a healthy work-life balance, take care of your physical and mental well-being, and contribute positively to society. Engage in community service or volunteer activities that align with your values and interests. By following these suggestions, you can chart a meaningful and fulfilling path for yourself, one that aligns with your passions and aspirations. Believe in your abilities, stay focused, and never stop learning and growing. The future is full of possibilities, and with determination and dedication, you can achieve great things and make a positive impact on the world.