Dr. Archana Pathak has been working as the Dean of Academics at Eklavya University of Madhya Pradesh. She has done B.Ed, M. H. Sc., M.Ed., M.A. & M. Phil in Sociology followed by PhD in Education and UGC NET in Education. Before joining Eklavya University, she has worked as a Founder Principal with St. Aloysius Institute of Technology Jabalpur MP for 3 years from 2018-2021.

She has a total teaching experience of 21 years and during those years, she has taught a wide variety of UG and PG programs to students. Apart from this, she has published 14 research papers in various national and international journals, authored 14 books with ISBN and contributed 19 chapters in various other books. She has also attended 6 international conferences, 5 national conferences, 19 seminars and 7 workshops throughout her diverse career. She is also a proud member of Agra based Psycholinguistics Association of India,Harprasad Institute of Behavioural Studies and Society of Behavioural Scientist followed by Prachi Psycho-Cultural Research Association of Meerut, Psychometrics and Educational Research Association of Patna, World Science Congress, Kolkata Life Membership, Indian Academy of Instructional Planning - Garhchiroli, Global Educational Research Association, Environment Sustainable Development Society and Council of Teachers Education of MP.

She started her professional journey in 1992 with Govt. D.B.P.G. Girls College at Raipur as an Assistant Professor and later on worked for Sant Danyaeshwar H.S. School for Science as a Regular Teacher, Department of Education in Pragati College at Raipur as Assistant Professor, Kawa Global Institute at Raipur as Assistant Professor, H.B. Mahavidhyalaya as an Assistant Professor, Department of Education in Hawabagh Women’s College, Jabalpur as a Regular Teacher, Department of Education in R.D.V.V., Jabalpur as a Lecturer to teach B.Ed.

Eklavya University

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

As the Dean of Academics at Eklavya University, I consider my role in education to be a noble profession. And without any doubt, our work as educators is not an ordinary job but a sacred duty, because we play an important role in shaping the future of society and the nation. And this understanding of the nobility of our profession keeps me motivated and committed to the education sector. Apart from this, being closely associated with the young generation acts a source of inspiration for me as their boundless energy, enthusiasm, and curiosity are truly enlightening. 

And I don't just teach them but also learn multiple things throughout the process. Also, while I interact with the curious minds, their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas challenge me to evolve and adapt, making education a dynamic and ever-learning process. Last but not the least, the opportunity to provide direction, motivation and guidance to students for their academic and personal goals and then witnessing their growth and development gives me immense satisfaction and happiness.

Being the Dean of Academics, what are your key responsibilities towards the students?

My primary responsibility as the Dean of Academics is to create an environment that supports students' growth and development while keeping the university's goals in mind. 

Apart from this, I am responsible for guiding and supervising the academic departments of our institution, supporting faculty members during curriculum development, ensuring programs get completed on time. Last but not the least, providing necessary academic support and guidance to the students, offering them the right resources and opportunities, promoting student engagement activities and encouraging their participation in extracurricular activities also comes under the scope of my responsibilities.

Which extracurricular activities are organized in your college to enhance the student's skills?

For the holistic development of students, our Eklavya University organizes diverse kinds of co-curricular activities ranging from sports events along with dance, music, poetry, drama and book reading. Another benefit of these activities and events is to enhance leadership, teamwork and social skills of students, make them more disciplined, improve their strategic thinking and help them work harmoniously within a team. Apart from this, they also get a creative outlet to self-expression themselves and nurture an appreciation for the arts.

Other than this, we have integrated community engagement programs to our university's values and curriculum as we strongly believe that fostering a strong connection between our students and society is very crucial. And through these community events, students not only learn from the community but also actively contribute to its welfare by becoming more responsible, socially conscious, well-rounded and empathetic individuals who understand the needs of the world beyond our campus.

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

At Eklavya University, bridging the gap between industry requirements and student learning is our utmost priority. Therefore, we collaborate with industries on a regular basis to gain valuable insights of the latest industry trends and needs and prepare our students accordingly. 

To ensure rigorous practical exposure for them, we provide amazing internship programs to students along with hands-on training. Additionally, we emphasize project-based learning to allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real time scenarios, learn the importance of teamwork, and enhance their problem-solving skills. Last but not the least, we have incorporated case studies in the curriculum and provide soft skills training and development programs, which are essential for students to grow in the industry.

How does your college enhance the faculty skills and prepare them as per industry standards?

We organize faculty development programs, seminars and workshops on a regular basis to keep our faculty members up-to-date with the latest industry trends and teaching methodologies. And orientation programs are also conducted for newly recruited faculty members. Apart from this, we have collaborated with the eminent industries to help faculty members gain real-world knowledge that can be directly incorporated into their teaching and research. Peer learning and knowledge sharing are also promoted through regular meetings and discussions among the faculty members. 

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

Our university has many remarkable strengths that set us apart, especially in the Bundelkhand region. We have a lush green campus, which makes the surrounding area more inspiring and positive. Then our infrastructure is equipped with modern facilities to support academic and extracurricular activities. Also, our classrooms, libraries, and research centers are well-resourced with digital devices and latest technologies that help students to excel in their studies. 

Apart from this, we have a well-designed curriculum that is regularly updated to align with the latest industry requirements and academic advancements. Lastly, Eklavya University's commitment to social responsibility is a distinctive feature and being situated in tribal areas is our unique strength. As it allows us to address the specific needs and challenges of these communities.

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

I would advise my dear students to stay attentive and dedicated towards their studies. Also, attend your lectures regularly, pursue your passion and stay curious and adaptable to changing surroundings.