Dr. D. Kannan is the Principal of Pollachi College of Arts and Science and a professor in the department of Computer Science. He holds a B.Sc., M.Sc., MCA, M.Phil., PGDCA, DSADP and a PhD as well. With over 30 years of experience, he has worked at reputed institutes like NGM College, Karpagam College of Arts and Science, SNMV College of Arts and Science and Nehru Arts and Science College.

Dr. Kannan was instrumental in setting up an undergraduate computer lab at the KASC, SNMV College of Arts and Science. He has helped introduce courses like B.Sc. CS and IT, BCA, and M.Sc. at SNMV as well. He has guided six PhD students, 34 M.Phil. students and 60 M.Sc. students with their projects and theses. Moreover, he has 27 papers published in different reputed national journals and 23 papers in international journals. Dr. Kannan has filed nine different patents in his area of expertise and organised 21 conferences, workshops and faculty development programs.

Pollachi College of Arts and Science

What is your leadership philosophy? 

My leadership philosophy centers on fostering teamwork and the collective growth of individuals. In my perspective, effective leadership involves fairness, self-awareness, and a continuous quest for knowledge to enhance leadership skills. It's imperative for leaders to create an environment that nurtures the independent growth of subordinates, encompassing academic development and other skills. Respect for the team, valuing diverse ideas, and maintaining an optimistic outlook are essential attributes for motivating and guiding the team without bias. The leader's role is not just to lead but to empower each team member, contributing to a harmonious and thriving collective. 

How does your college prepare students for placement? 

Our college focuses on comprehensive student development to enhance employability skills for placements. We concentrate on enriching students' intellectual quotient (IQ), verbal aptitude, logical and creative thinking, and reasoning abilities. Various activities, such as group discussions, written tests, presentations, and mock interviews, are organised to simulate real-world scenarios. A dedicated placement department, supported by qualified soft skill trainers, conducts skill enhancement and employability development programs. These initiatives, integrated with the efforts of the placement cells, ensure students receive specific training to meet the evolving demands of the job market and enhance their overall employability.

What is the college’s greatest strength and how can it be enhanced?

The cornerstone of our college's strength lies in our dedicated teaching and non-teaching staff. The synergy among our qualified faculty members is remarkable, particularly in the context of the ongoing pandemic, where online classes have played a pivotal role in enhancing students' knowledge. Our team, comprising young, enthusiastic, and hardworking faculty and staff, forms the backbone that enables us to achieve our objectives. To further enhance this strength, we continually invest in professional development, technological infrastructure, and collaborative initiatives that foster a conducive learning environment and contribute to the overall growth of our academic community.

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How do you guide your students to survive in a competitive scenario? 

We guide our students to thrive in a competitive environment by emphasising the development of skill sets and fostering professional networks through volunteer opportunities. It is imperative for students to continually enhance their skill sets, expanding their capabilities and acquiring new ones. Additionally, we encourage students to invest in themselves by joining professional associations, enabling them to enrich their knowledge and stay abreast of industry trends. Volunteering is considered essential in navigating the competitive landscape, providing students with valuable experiences, and maintaining a robust professional network that opens doors to various opportunities in their chosen fields.

How do you establish healthy relations with students and faculty?

To foster healthy relationships with both students and faculty, we prioritise the principles of constructive discipline, connectivity, individual interest development, and the provision of space for everyone. Mutual respect is at the core of our approach, with a focus on nurturing the unique interests of each individual within our academic community. Building trust is a central tenet in our student-faculty relationships, and we ensure a constructive disciplinary framework that encourages positive interactions. Through effective communication and understanding, we establish connectivity, creating an environment where both students and faculty feel valued and supported. Our commitment is to provide a conducive space for everyone to thrive and contribute positively to the academic community.

What are the key factors that keep you connected with the education sector?

My responsibility extends beyond academic instruction; it involves moulding students into socially responsible citizens, entrepreneurs, professionals, and compassionate individuals. Witnessing the transformative journey of our former students, who express happiness about their association with this noble profession, adds a profound layer to our commitment. The joy of contributing to the growth and development of the younger generation and aligning them with the demands of the contemporary world is immeasurable. Education, in its multifaceted role, not only shapes individuals but also acts as a nurturing parent for various sectors, contributing significantly to the emergence of societal achievements.

How could college be more welcoming to students of different races and economic backgrounds? 

Our unique approach includes providing scholarships for three years, irrespective of semester marks, highlighting our commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey. This initiative aims to break barriers and bridge gaps, fostering a culture where every student, regardless of their financial situation, feels welcomed and encouraged to pursue higher education. By extending equal chances and financial assistance, we are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity within the college community.