Dr. K. Karthikeyan, currently serving as the Principal at Sri Ranganathar Institute of Polytechnic College, boasts 15 years of invaluable experience in the field of education. Specialising in Structural Engineering, he holds a Master's in Engineering (M.E.) in the same discipline. Driven by a passion for teaching, he has dedicated his career to fostering a dynamic and enriching learning environment. Under his leadership, the institution has witnessed academic excellence and innovative practices. With a commitment to shaping future professionals, Dr. Karthikeyan continues to contribute significantly to the growth and development of both the students and the institute.

Sri Ranganathar Institute of Polytechnic College

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

My continuous teaching and administrative engagement, coupled with a deep passion, sustains my connection with the education sector. I am dedicated to integrating innovative and effective educational practices into my institution. I emphasise the incorporation of technology in teaching, believing it enhances classroom efficiency. Guiding students towards successful careers, offering valuable placements, fostering entrepreneurial spirit, and promoting a commitment to lifelong learning are integral aspects of my approach. These factors collectively drive my ongoing commitment to the dynamic and evolving landscape of education.

What is your philosophy of Leadership?

Leadership encompasses a unique blend of skills, qualities, attitudes, and actions that inspire others to achieve common goals, fostering unity and coherence in the organisation. Personally, my leadership style aligns with a visionary approach, maintaining a forward-thinking perspective in all institutional endeavours. Collaborating with my team, I strive to actualize our shared vision. Additionally, I incorporate a coaching leadership style, especially when addressing challenges that my faculty and students encounter. This ensures guidance and support in navigating complex situations within the institution.

What are some plans that you are currently (or will be) designing for students? 

Our aim is to nurture future entrepreneurs within our student community. I envision a shift from job seekers to job providers. By crafting courses that stimulate research and foster entrepreneurial spirit, students are empowered to transform their innovative ideas into tangible products. By encouraging the filing of patents, we strive to instill a sense of ownership and creativity. Additionally, we integrate technology into our teaching methods, focusing on enhancing students' communication skills, self-confidence, ethical values, and overall attitude. These initiatives are geared towards preparing students not just for careers but for successful and fulfilling lives.

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How do you bring in a practical and industry-oriented approach towards subjects?

I foster a practical and industry-oriented approach by urging students to relate academic concepts to their personal experiences, enabling them to envision solutions for real-world challenges. Additionally, we conduct role plays, emphasising understanding techniques rather than relying on rote learning methods. This ensures that students acquire practical insights and skills applicable to the dynamic demands of the industry.

What do you see as the greatest strengths of your college? 

Our college's paramount strength lies in our collaborative teamwork and innovative facilities developed over the years. We consistently strive for learning and exploration, ensuring a supportive environment for everyone. In instances of demotivation, we promptly address concerns, fostering a guilt-free atmosphere. The strong mutual support extends beyond task completion, with continuous improvements being implemented. Additionally, our courses undergo frequent updates in consultation with industry experts, aligning them with current standards. This commitment to teamwork, innovation, and adaptability positions our college as a dynamic institution, ready to meet evolving challenges and provide a holistic learning experience. 

How do you prepare your students to confidently deal with the outside competitive world? 

We foster a competitive spirit in our students by providing a challenging environment and encouraging them to experience healthy competition. Our approach avoids undue pampering, emphasising that students should actively seek knowledge and contribute equally to their growth. We believe in cultivating curiosity and prompting students to explore independently. To achieve this, we design exercises, assignments, and projects that require rigorous thinking, fostering a mindset of problem-solving rather than resorting to copying. Through such practices, we instil resilience, creativity, and a proactive attitude, ensuring our students confidently navigate the competitive landscape beyond the college walls.