Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy, Principal: Dr.S.Vasudeva Murthy Interview

Dr. S. Vasudeva Murthy has been working at Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy, Narsampet, Telangana as a Principal for the last 18 years and teaching pharmacology and biostatistics. He received his Ph.D. from Kakatiya University, Warangal. Dr. Murthy was awarded FIP Fellowship-2003 from the FIP Foundation for Education and Research, The Hague, Netherlands for his research on Nasal lavage Protein Patterns of leprosy patients and had a short stint at the University of Central Florida, Orlando, USA. During his more than two decades of academic research experience, Dr. Murthy has extensively investigated phytoconstituents for their activities by incorporating molecular biology techniques. Now, he is mainly focusing on investigating the effects of amino acids, drugs, nutrition, and phytochemicals action on the brain and their cognitive behavior extensively studied in animal models.

What is the latest program that you are offering at Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy, Hyderabad which will help students outperform and stand apart from the crowd?

Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy in Narsampet is offering its latest program aimed at helping students outperform and stand apart from the crowd. This program includes online certificate courses provided by renowned organizations in India and other countries. These courses are designed to equip students with specialized knowledge and skills, enhancing their understanding of pharmaceutical sciences and giving them a distinct competitive advantage. Simultaneously, the college is providing experiential learning opportunities based on pharmaceutical sciences. Students are engaging in practical internships, research projects, and hands-on training, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. This approach not only reinforces their understanding but also sets them apart by providing tangible experiences within the field. These initiatives are positioning students to excel and distinguish themselves in the dynamic landscape of pharmaceutical sciences.

What are the factors that make this program the best for the students to opt for?

This program excels for students due to key factors. Firstly, it emphasizes real-world experience through internships, research, and hands-on training, vital for effective learning. This equips students with skills to excel in pharmaceutical sciences careers. Moreover, including online certificates from esteemed Indian and global organizations adds specialized depth. These courses enhance expertise in specific pharmaceutical areas, preparing students to tackle industry challenges effectively. Additionally, the program prioritizes enhancing job prospects, a vital student concern. The blend of practical experience and specialized knowledge through online certificates makes graduates highly sought-after by employers. They enter the job market with a competitive advantage, poised to contribute meaningfully.

What will you say are the “best practices” in the course you’re offering? 

In the course currently being offered by Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy, several best practices are being implemented across different levels of education. For undergraduate students, there is a strong emphasis on practice & concept. This approach effectively bridges the gap between syllabus-oriented education and the dynamic needs of industries. Through this, students actively engage with real-world scenarios, aligning their learning with industry demands. In the case of PharmD students, the program involves immersive real-time projects within multi-specialty hospitals, enabling them to function as clinical pharmacists in practical settings. This hands-on experience enhances their clinical skills and prepares them for the challenges of real healthcare environments. For postgraduate Pharmacy students, a noteworthy practice involves collaborative projects with pharmaceutical industries. This direct involvement allows students to apply their knowledge to real industry challenges and gain insights into the practical aspects of the pharmaceutical business.

What are some valuable insights from the program that you are offering at your institute?

The program at Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy offers valuable insights through research and project work. Students engage in these activities, gaining hands-on experience that equips them with practical skills and enhances their decision-making abilities. Through research initiatives, students delve into cutting-edge topics, contributing to the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences. Additionally, the project work component exposes students to real-world challenges, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving. These experiences foster a deep understanding of industry dynamics and prepare students for their professional journeys. By actively participating in research and project endeavors, students at Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy develop the competence to excel in the pharmaceutical field while making meaningful contributions to its development.

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How does the program ensure that students are being prepared for the future?

The program at Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy is thoughtfully designed to ensure students are well-prepared for the future. It incorporates a range of best practices, including real-world experience, specialized online courses, and collaborative industry projects. Through experiential learning such as internships, research, and practical training, students gain insights that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industry demands. Online certificate courses from esteemed organizations provide specialized expertise, while collaborative projects with pharmaceutical industries foster practical skills. Moreover, the program’s focus on enhancing job prospects directly addresses students’ future readiness. By instilling both practical experience and specialized knowledge, graduates become highly competitive candidates in the job market. Through these comprehensive practices, Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy ensures that students are equipped with the skills, experience, and confidence needed to thrive in their pharmaceutical careers, effectively bridging the gap between education and industry requirements.

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

I take immense pride in the achievements of Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy, especially considering our location in the remote village of Muqdumpur, near Narsampet. The impact is truly remarkable as we have been able to provide opportunities to students primarily from Narsampet and nearby villages. It’s a source of great satisfaction that numerous bright students from these regions have emerged as successful professionals in the pharmaceutical field, both in India and Abroad. This accomplishment underscores the effectiveness of our education and the dedication of our students, faculty, and staff. By nurturing local talent and enabling them to excel globally, we contribute to the growth and development of not only individuals but also the entire pharmaceutical industry.

What strategy do you employ for building an efficient work team?

We are actively employing a multifaceted strategy to construct an efficient work team at our institute. Aligned with our institution’s vision, we are fostering an environment that nurtures friendly and professionally competent staff members. Through ongoing initiatives, we are promoting collaboration, effective communication, and mutual respect among team members. By encouraging open dialogue, we ensure that every staff member’s input is valued and contributes to our collective goals.

What was the most challenging task that you faced in your career so far, and what did you learn from it?

One of the most challenging tasks I encountered in my career was securing a research fellowship at the University of Central Florida, Orlando, during my PhD program. Overcoming this challenge was immensely rewarding, as I successfully obtained a research grant from the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) in The Hague, Netherlands. The opportunity to work under the guidance of experienced mentors and within the enriching university atmosphere has been a phenomenal experience. This journey taught me the significance of perseverance, networking, and seizing global opportunities, contributing greatly to my growth and expertise. Additionally, our strategy involves continuous professional development. We are providing opportunities for training, workshops, and skill enhancement, keeping our team up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in the field. This approach not only fosters individual growth but also contributes to the overall excellence of the team.

What do you find most difficult about being a Principal?

The most challenging aspect of being a Principal is managing a college situated in a remote village. Given our rural setting, some students often come from agricultural backgrounds and occasionally skip classes to work in the fields, especially during harvest season. To address this, I am consistently encouraging students to maintain regular attendance and actively participate in classes. Moreover, I’m engaging in counseling sessions with parents to emphasize the importance of sending their wards to college consistently. This ongoing effort aims to strike a balance between academic pursuits and practical responsibilities, ensuring our students receive a well-rounded education.

What is your Vision for Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy, Narsampet in the next five years?

In the next five years, my vision for Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy, Narsampet, is to evolve into a vibrant hub of education and innovation. I see our college as a dynamic center that not only imparts cutting-edge pharmaceutical knowledge but also fosters a culture of holistic growth. Our graduates will be renowned for their unwavering commitment to ethical practices and their ability to address real-world challenges. We aim to enhance industry collaboration, equipping our students with practical skills that make them industry-ready. By incorporating emerging technologies, we aspire to provide an education that’s globally relevant. Through this transformation, we envision Jayamukhi College of Pharmacy becoming a beacon of excellence, contributing to the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences and nurturing responsible leaders who drive positive change in healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry.