Dr. Neha Pandey is the Principal at Biyani Group of Colleges, Jaipur. She has pursued a BE in Computer Science from the Department of Computer Science, at Pune University. She has 20 years of Academic experience and 10 years of Industry experience. She is the winner of the Lilawati National Level Women Empowerment Award.

Biyani Group Of Colleges

What are the key factors that keep you connected to the education industry?

My connection to the education industry is fueled by a belief that it goes beyond imparting bookish knowledge; it's about empowering students for financial independence and overall development. Google facilitates financial independence, but as educators, our role is profound. We shape not just academics but also instill habits for holistic growth—academic excellence, personality development, and fostering good humanity. Ensuring these aspects brings immense satisfaction, making teaching a fulfilling endeavor. It's about contributing to students' success beyond textbooks, ensuring they become not only knowledgeable individuals but also good human beings. This holistic approach keeps me committed to the education sector, providing a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

What is your philosophy of your leadership style and how would you describe your leadership style?

My leadership philosophy centers on leading by example, emphasizing action before motivation. I believe in actively engaging with tasks to inspire my team. A crucial aspect is empathy—I put myself in their shoes to understand their challenges thoroughly. I reject a dictatorial approach, opting for inclusive leadership. True leadership involves unity, sometimes requiring passing the baton to different team members for growth and shared responsibility. Drawing an analogy from birds in flight, where leadership shifts, I advocate giving everyone opportunities to lead. In summary, my leadership style blends hands-on involvement, empathy, inclusivity, and a rotational approach to foster a collaborative and dynamic team environment.

Please share your views on the National Education Policy and what initiatives are the groups of colleges taking concerning this policy?

The new education policy, which introduces the semester scheme, has been implemented. The universities have provided the syllabus, and all necessary preparations are underway. A structured plan has been devised for classes spanning the first to third years. In higher education, the primary focus is on providing practical exposure to students, with the introduction of a multiple entry-exit option. Previously, if a student's education was interrupted after completing the first year, they wouldn't be considered a graduate even after completing two years. The Multiple Entry Exit System now allows students to obtain an advanced diploma after two years. If a student exits after one year, they receive a diploma and can return after two years without any concerns about gaps in their education. This policy is beneficial, providing flexibility for students to fulfill family responsibilities, complete a responsibility test, and return to complete their graduation in the third year. It's a commendable approach.

Additionally, the focus is primarily on skill development and, secondarily, on value education. Allow me to elaborate on our consortium of colleges. Our involvement dates back to 2006 when we commenced part-time work, delivering one or two lectures per week and conducting week-long skill development courses. 

The vision was to equip commerce students with essential skills like tally, accountancy, Excel, and advanced Excel, while those interested in fashion design gained relevant knowledge. Similarly, science students were encouraged to learn C language and programming. Although such comprehensive education was not widespread, we were already providing these essential elements. 

Regarding IT, our workshops identified and addressed skill gaps in the sector, ensuring our students are industry-ready. We've been implementing these practices, and with the advent of the new education policy, a systematic structure has been established.

Being an integral part of the colleges how your work has impacted the overall growth of the organization?

I would say that I am a workaholic; I can't sit without work. That is what I try to inculcate in my team members. When I have 10 more hands working like me, we can touch the sky. 

Over the last six years, we ventured into autonomy, making the college autonomous, granted by the University Grants Commission. 

We also entered skill development, opening many skill centers. In this vertical, we received orders from RSLDC and AICTE, enabling us to train over a thousand young minds, providing them with good placements, and making them employable. 

Another notable achievement was obtaining accreditation for NAAC for the Biyani Institute of Science and Management. I could achieve this only because I had good people working with me; nobody can do it single-handedly.

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What did you move towards the education industry as an educator and why do you feel that education is the best industry to work in?

After finishing my computer science degree, my dream was to become a software developer. Fortunately, I landed my first break as a system analyst right after completing my engineering. I worked in this role for about five years, but I realized I didn't enjoy the desk job; perhaps I was more of a people person. After this realization, I pursued an MBA, transitioned to corporate roles, including managerial positions in a large company, and also worked with Wipro for a while. Eventually, I felt the need to be in a place where I could inspire more individuals like me. This realization led me to the education industry, where I believed I could contribute to nurturing young minds. I made the switch from corporates to academics in 2003.

What are the toughest priorities of the college for the coming years?

The first aspect is aligned with the Prime Minister's 'Make in India' concept, focusing on research, development, incubation, and startups. The second emphasis is on the holistic development of individuals. While mental capabilities are crucial, a strong value system is equally essential for effective leadership.

At Biyani Girls College, we prioritize teaching students not only technological and managerial skills but also instilling good values. Regular value-based education is provided, incorporating teachings from the Gita and Mahabharata, and the Oorja program offers personality enhancement and skill-based investment system programs. 

Our overarching goal is the overall development of each student, with a three-year focus on research, development, incubation, and startups.

How would you define your connection with the students and the other faculty members who are empowering uh your vision for the college and how do you balance that expectation between the students and the faculty members?

Certainly, let's begin with the students. They possess immense passion, and with proper guidance, the sky becomes their limit. Having the right mentor is crucial, and we've established a Student Council comprising a president, vice president, and a team of 30 members across various clubs. 

Our vision is realized through these students who, in turn, become mentors to their peers through class representatives. Shifting to our teachers, they are exceptionally passionate, loving, and dedicated, working six to seven hours daily. 

I take pride in stating that academically, Biyani Group of Colleges stands among the best, consistently producing university merits and gold medalists, showcasing the teachers' unwavering commitment to students' success.

What kind of placements internships and higher study opportunities are provided by the Biyani group of colleges?

We boast a comprehensive Placement Cell led by our Training Placement Officer, supported by department-wise coordinators. Our goal is to offer students global and national exposure. Additionally, we focus on nurturing entrepreneurial skills, believing that future entrepreneurs can create job opportunities. The Entrepreneurship Cell (E-Cell), established with grants from AICTE and the Government of Rajasthan, facilitates this vision. Collaborating with renowned Indian and international companies, especially in Japan and Germany, we provide internship and placement opportunities. Our students engage in impactful projects, fostering real-world skills and ensuring their academic and professional growth in India and abroad. The E-Cell has been instrumental in forming alliances with industries, resulting in successful placements for our students.

Anything that you want to share with us for our upcoming generation, upcoming entrepreneurs, or upcoming students?

Children today are remarkably focused and aware of their goals, but maintaining emotional balance is challenging. Elevating your emotional core enhances academic performance, fosters personal growth, and improves relationships. Success follows those who master self-talk, allocating 10 to 15 minutes daily for introspection. Many struggle with solitude, but it's crucial to engage in positive self-talk, training the subconscious mind. I encourage every child to permit themselves moments of positive reflection, emphasizing the trainable nature of the mind. This practice cultivates holistic development, paving the way for success in various aspects of life.