Dr. Dheeraj Kumar is the Deputy Director of the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) at Dhanbad. He has over 21 years of experience and has been associated with IITISM since 2011. Some of the other roles he has worked as are, Chairman of Admissions at IBAT, KIIT University, and Head of Education and IT at the Indian Institute for Production and Management.

Dr. Kumar has published three books and 66 papers in reputed journals. Moreover, he has guided 21 students in their PhD studies, and he has a patent registered in his name. He is the Project Director of the Mining Technology Innovation Hub, a member of the Central Empowered Committee, the PMMC National Centre in Geodesy, and the National Geodetic and Geospatial Consortium, among others.

ISM Dhanbad

Being the Deputy Director of Indian Institute of Technology Dhanbad IITISM , what is your leadership philosophy?

As the Deputy Director of an institution like IIT Dhanbad, my philosophy would revolve around a student-centric approach, fostering academic excellence, promoting diversity and inclusivity, and establishing strong industry collaborations. I would prioritize providing modern infrastructure and facilities to support cutting-edge research and enhance the overall learning experience for students. Transparency and ethical governance would be paramount to building trust and credibility within the institution and the broader community. Empowering the faculty and recognizing their contributions to teaching and research would be essential in creating an environment of creativity and collaboration. With a clear vision and mission, I would help the administration in setting long-term goals and ensure that all decisions align with the institution's overall objectives. This holistic approach would aim to produce well-rounded graduates equipped with essential life skills, ready to make meaningful contributions to society.

What are some of the biggest challenges you see, both for higher education in general and for Indian Institute of Technology Dhanbad IITISM specifically?

In higher education, including institutions like IIT Dhanbad (IITISM), several significant challenges persist. Ensuring internal resource generation and becoming financially self-sustained to maintain high standards of education and research is a pressing concern. Additionally, providing access and affordability for a diverse student population remains a challenge, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Sustaining and enhancing the quality of education amidst rapidly evolving fields and technologies requires ongoing effort. Attracting and retaining talented faculty members is crucial, given the competitive landscape. Encouraging cutting-edge research and fostering innovation necessitates a supportive ecosystem and funding opportunities. Lastly, the global competition demands continuous efforts to maintain reputation and attract international talent.

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

As a Deputy Director, my key roles and responsibilities to the institute and its students would revolve around making this institute as the most preferred destination of higher education in consonance with the NEP 2020 . I would help the administration I. setting a clear vision and mission for the institution, establishing long-term goals and formulating strategies to achieve them. Ensuring academic excellence would be a top priority, collaborating with faculty and administrators to maintain high-quality education, promote innovative teaching methods, and foster a culture of research and intellectual growth. Additionally, I would prioritize student welfare, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment and providing opportunities for their personal and professional development. Supporting the faculty and staff would also be crucial, by promoting professional development, recognizing excellence, and fostering a collaborative and nurturing work culture. Efficient resource management would be a priority to optimize budgets and allocations, ensuring the university's sustainable growth and success.

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What would you like people to know about your Indian Institute of Technology Dhanbad IITISM that they may not know?

IIT Dhanbad (formerly ISM) has a rich history dating back to 1926, originally established to serve the mining industry. Since becoming an IIT in 2016, it has expanded its academic programs to include various engineering disciplines, applied sciences, management studies, and humanities. Despite its growth, the institute remains a leader in mining engineering and continues to excel in research, collaborating with industries and international institutions. Its diverse disciplines and reputation in research contribute to its prominence as a top engineering and technology institution in India.

What do you see as the Indian Institute of Technology Dhanbad IITISM greatest strengths?

The Indian Institute of Technology Dhanbad (IITISM) boasts several remarkable strengths. Firstly, its legacy and expertise in mining engineering stand as a hallmark of its historical significance. The institute has earned a strong reputation for producing skilled mining professionals and conducting cutting-edge research in this field. Additionally, IIT Dhanbad is known for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, providing rigorous and comprehensive programs across various disciplines. The dedicated faculty and intellectual growth-focused environment contribute to its academic prowess. Moreover, the institute's research contributions extend beyond mining to encompass engineering, applied sciences, and environmental studies. Collaborations with industries and institutions further enhance its research reputation. Furthermore, IIT Dhanbad fosters an entrepreneurial culture, inspiring students and faculty to embrace innovation and supporting startups to thrive within the campus ecosystem. Lastly, the institute's strong industry connections facilitate valuable internships, research collaborations, and placement opportunities for students, ensuring a seamless industry-academia partnership.

How does the curriculum of Indian Institute of Technology Dhanbad College/University ensure the best practice of industry?

The Indian Institute of Technology Dhanbad (IITISM) ensures the best industry practices are integrated into its curriculum through various strategies. The institute regularly updates its curriculum to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and advancements, equipping students with relevant knowledge and skills. Strong industry-academia collaborations are fostered through partnerships, research projects, and expert lectures, offering students practical exposure to real-world challenges. Encouraging internships and industrial training allows students to gain hands-on experience and understand industry best practices. Moreover, organizing guest lectures and workshops featuring industry experts provides valuable insights to students. These measures collectively ensure that IIT Dhanbad's curriculum aligns with the demands of the industry, producing skilled and industry-ready graduates.

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

For the current youth and aspiring students, here are some valuable suggestions. First, follow your passions and interests, as it leads to a more fulfilling and purposeful career. Embrace continuous learning beyond formal education, as it keeps you adaptable and open to new opportunities. Set clear goals and work hard, persevering through challenges to achieve your dreams. Be open-minded and embrace diverse experiences to expand your horizons. Lastly, build a strong support network of positive individuals who can guide and uplift you on your journey. These principles can pave the way for personal and professional growth, helping you become successful and fulfilled individuals.