Ms. Aditi Sharma Anand is the Head of the Department of Fashion at LISAA School Of Design. She has 13 years of experience in the fashion industry. She is a proud graduate of Pearl Academy of Fashion, and has owned successful women's wear label “Aaina by Aditi" and "Paintbox by Aditi." She has also served as the creative director of the NGO "Kadam Kadam Milaye Ja."

LISAA School of Design

Being a Faculty of your Department, what are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

As a faculty member in this department, I am committed to delivering impactful lectures, guiding and mentoring students, and creating a positive learning environment. My responsibilities include assessing students' progress, providing constructive feedback, and staying current with advancements in our field. Additionally, I actively contribute to departmental activities and committees to enhance the overall academic experience.

How do you try to bring in a practical approach towards subjects and make it industry-oriented?

Incorporating a practical approach and making subjects industry-oriented involves integrating real-world examples, case studies, and practical exercises into the curriculum. I strive to relate theoretical concepts to practical applications, invite guest speakers from the industry, organize workshops, and facilitate internships or projects that simulate industry challenges. This ensures students gain hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of how their knowledge applies in real-world settings.

What are the best practices offered by the department to the students which help them gain necessary skills?

In our design institute, we prioritize several best practices to help students gain necessary skills. These include hands-on projects, collaboration with industry professionals, workshops and masterclasses, exposure to the latest design tools and technologies, internships, and a curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. Additionally, mentorship programs, design competitions, and participation in relevant conferences are encouraged to enhance students' skill development and prepare them for the dynamic field of design.

How do you help your student to cope up with the competition being so high in the outside world?

To help students cope with the high competition in the outside world, I emphasize a multifaceted approach. This includes providing career counseling, organizing workshops on resume building and interview skills, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and encouraging participation in industry competitions and projects. Additionally, I guide students in developing a strong portfolio, networking with professionals, and staying updated on industry trends. By instilling confidence, resilience, and a proactive mindset, I aim to prepare students to navigate and succeed in a competitive professional landscape.

What are the challenges you faced/ are facing to uplift the quality of education of your department?

Addressing challenges in uplifting the quality of education in my department involves adapting to evolving educational trends, ensuring access to updated resources, and fostering a culture of innovation. Overcoming budget constraints, keeping pace with technological advancements, and addressing diverse learning needs are ongoing challenges. Collaboration with industry partners, continuous professional development for faculty, and regularly updating the curriculum are strategies to tackle these challenges and enhance the overall quality of education in the department.

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What do you see as the department’s/ college’s greatest strengths and how it can be enhanced?

The department's greatest strengths lie in its dedicated faculty, diverse student body, and the robust curriculum. To enhance these strengths, fostering a stronger connection with industry partners for collaborative initiatives, investing in faculty development programs, and continually updating the curriculum to align with industry demands would be beneficial. Additionally, promoting a culture of research and innovation, expanding student support services, and leveraging technology for effective teaching can further strengthen the department and contribute to its continuous improvement.

What valuable advice would you like to the students for them to have a prosperous career ahead?

My advice to students for a prosperous career is to prioritize continuous learning, stay adaptable to industry changes, and actively seek opportunities for skill development. Build a strong professional network through internships, networking events, and industry connections. Cultivate effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and embrace a proactive and positive mindset. Don't shy away from challenges; view them as opportunities for growth. Finally, set clear goals, stay focused on your passions, and maintain a balance between work and personal well-being for long-term success.

How does the department/College enhance the skills of the faculty and prepare them according to the industry standards?

The department/ college enhances faculty skills by facilitating regular professional development programs, workshops, and training sessions. Emphasis is placed on staying abreast of industry trends, incorporating modern teaching methodologies, and fostering research collaborations. Exposure to industry practices is encouraged through partnerships, internships, or sabbaticals. Continuous feedback and peer collaboration contribute to skill refinement. By promoting a culture of lifelong learning, the department ensures faculty members are well-prepared and aligned with current industry standards, ultimately benefiting both educators and students.

What are the interventions and approaches you bring in apart from curriculum to train/ teach the students?

Apart from the curriculum, I implement various interventions and approaches to enhance student learning. These include organizing guest lectures by industry experts, facilitating hands-on workshops, incorporating real-world case studies, encouraging internships, and promoting collaborative projects with industry partners. Additionally, I foster a participative learning environment through group discussions, presentations, and interactive sessions. Utilizing modern teaching technologies, providing access to relevant resources, and offering mentorship for individualized guidance further contribute to a holistic and practical education experience for the students.

How do you ensure that the courses offered at the college are up-to-date and aligned with industry trends and demands? Are there any mechanisms in place for regular curriculum review and updates?

Ensuring courses are up-to-date and aligned with industry trends involves a systematic curriculum review process. We conduct regular assessments of course content, soliciting feedback from industry professionals, alumni, and faculty. Advisory boards comprising industry experts provide insights, and we stay informed about emerging trends through professional networks. Continuous dialogue with employers helps identify evolving skill requirements. This feedback loop informs regular updates to the curriculum, allowing us to maintain relevance and prepare students for the dynamic demands of the industry.