Shruti Dawar is the Centre Operational Head of the Zee Institute of Creative Art. With an MBA in Finance and Foreign Trade, she has over nine years of experience working in industry and academia. Her academic foundation, combined with practical experience, has equipped me with a holistic understanding of operational dynamics. Miss Shruti’s expertise lies in streamlining workflows, implementing cost-effective measures, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Zee Institute of Creative Art

What keeps you connected with the Education sector and how has your experience been so far with the institute?

The educational sector is the most satisfying career, as we get the opportunity to work with a team, develop core values and implement knowledge. The opportunity to make a positive impact on student's lives and contribute to their intellectual and personal development can be a strong motivator. Being part of a community of educators, students, and administrators fosters a sense of belonging and collaboration, creating a supportive environment. Seeing students succeed academically and personally can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience for those in the education sector.

What is your philosophy of leadership?

My philosophy of leadership is to be honest, do the right thing, and set a good example for others. I try to understand and empathise with the needs and feelings of those I lead. My focus is on helping my team succeed rather than just giving orders. At the same time, I own up to my actions and decisions and expect the same from my team. It is also essential to stay curious, be willing to adapt and keep learning throughout our lives. I speak plainly, listen actively, and keep everyone on the same page. Additionally, I give my team the tools and freedom they need to do their best work. I embrace differences in order to create an inclusive environment. This will help us face challenges head-on, make tough decisions, and encourage bravery in the team. Acknowledging the efforts and achievements of the team members is key along with thinking ahead and making decisions that align with long-term goals.

How does the curriculum of your institute ensure best practices?

Regularly reviewing and updating the curriculum to align with current industry trends, technologies, and practices is important for us. Collaboration with industry professionals and advisory boards can provide valuable insights into the curriculum development process. Guest lectures, workshops, and input from professionals can ensure that students are exposed to real-world practices. We also emphasise hands-on learning and practical application of theoretical concepts. Moreover, we incorporate the latest tools, software, and technologies used in the industry, along with establishing a system for continuous review and update of the curriculum. Our goal is to benchmark the curriculum against global standards in the field. This helps ensure that graduates are well-prepared for international best practices and standards. We also integrate the development of soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, into the curriculum. These skills are crucial in professional settings.

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What are your responsibilities towards the students?

As an Operational Head, my responsibilities towards students are to provide guidance on course selection, program requirements, and academic policies. I also assist students in developing study plans and time management skills. Addressing academic concerns and connecting students with relevant resources, such as tutoring services or academic advisors, is important. I also facilitate orientation programs to help new students acclimatise to the campus environment. I also need to offer resources or workshops on topics such as time management, stress reduction, and interpersonal skills. I serve as a liaison between students and faculty, administration, or other relevant parties and maintain open communication channels to address student concerns. I also collaborate with other departments to enhance student services and resources.

What are the placement opportunities available for students in your institute?

We have strong ties with the animation and VFX industries. Establishing partnerships, collaborations, and internship programs with industry leaders can enhance placement prospects. Our institute has a dedicated placement cell that actively works to connect students with relevant job opportunities. We investigate the success stories of alumni who have pursued careers in animation and VFX, Graphics, Interior and many more, as a strong track record of alumni success in reputable companies is an indicator of the institute's credibility. Internships provide valuable industry experience. We also organise industry visits, workshops, and guest lectures with professionals from every field, which can provide valuable networking opportunities and industry insights. The college has services to assist students in resume building, interview preparation, and job placement support and holds events such as job fairs, networking sessions, and industry conferences organised by the institute that can connect students directly with potential employers.

What is the top priority of your institute in the upcoming years?

Over the next few years, we will need to invest more in infrastructure and resources to support online and blended learning. We will also be exploring competency-based education and other innovative approaches. It is pertinent for us to prioritise the mental health and well-being of students. Providing accessible mental health services and support systems. Fostering a global perspective in education through national collaborations will help us prepare our students for a globalised workforce. It is also essential for us to prioritise professional development opportunities for faculty and staff and to ensure educators are equipped with the skills needed for evolving educational landscapes. We will look into ways to incorporate alternative forms of assessment that align with diverse learning styles and develop sustainable financial models for the institution. Encouraging research and innovation among faculty and students will be done by investing in research infrastructure and opportunities for collaborative projects.

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

Recognise that learning is a continuous process. Stay curious and be open to acquiring new skills throughout your life. Define your short-term and long-term goals, as having clear objectives will help you stay focused and motivated. Cultivate the ability to think critically and analytically. Understand that setbacks and failures are a natural part of life. Learn from them, adapt, and use challenges as opportunities for growth. Connect with peers, mentors, and professionals in your field of interest. Stay informed about current events, trends, and developments in your chosen field. Being knowledgeable about the world around you is essential for success. Prioritize your mental and physical health. Practice self-care, get enough sleep, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Be open to feedback, whether positive or constructive. Use feedback as a tool for improvement and personal development. Develop basic financial literacy skills. Learn how to budget, save, and make informed financial decisions. Understand and manage your emotions effectively. Developing emotional intelligence can enhance your interpersonal relationships and leadership skills.