In an exclusive interaction with APAC Media & CXO Media, Prof Vijay K Agrawal, Vice Chancellor, RKDF University, highlights the preparations being made to make students industry-ready through digital initiatives, collaborations with industry and multidisciplinary R&D programs.
What are the different digital initiatives undertaken at RKDF University?
The RKDF University is committed to adopting various technology-driven initiatives to improve access for students to study material, promote digital literacy, and improve teaching and learning methods. Innovative pedagogical approaches are adapted to move beyond the traditional teaching methods and emphasise active student involvement and learning.
The faculty members act as facilitators, and students are provided with recorded lecture modules for different disciplines. We have our own recording studio where expert lectures are recorded, validated, and then provided to our students. This includes adaptation of online learning platforms like SWAYAM, SWAYAMPRABHA, e-PG Pathshala, Shodhganga and e-ShodhSindhu. The faculty and students are also encouraged to use Shodh Shudhhi (PDS), VIDWAN, Academic Bank of Credits (ABC), and the National Digital Library.
The University has also implemented virtual labs and robotics/drone programs to engage students and integrate technology into the curriculum. The University has also adapted online platforms such as the ERP system for the smooth functioning of student-centric work like admission, exam and fee payment.
How have you involved different stakeholders, including students and faculty, in these digital initiatives?
The University has developed smart classrooms in all the departments. We actively encourage our faculty members and students to use digital learning platforms. The University also provides training to teachers for effective integration of technology into their teaching methodology, and also to establish various communication models for efficient feedback and collaboration.
Apart from faculty and students, other stakeholders, including administrative, accounts, IT and other support staff, are also encouraged to incorporate digital initiatives for office management, admission process and fee transfer.
How is RKDF University collaborating with different industries for industry-ready programs with different specialisations?
The University has signed an MoU with different industries for academic and industrial training. It is continuously making efforts to develop industry-ready programs, which aim to bridge the gap between industry and academic learning.
The university has collaborated with various industries to improve practical experience, provide mentorship from industry professionals and also to offer internships. Some of the programs developed with industry-specific specialisation include Machine Learning, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, Electric Vehicle and Energy. The CSR fellowships are also being provided to meritorious and economically weaker sections of students.
How would you assess the placement success of RKDF University?
The University has established a dedicated Training & Placement Cell, which continuously assists students to get jobs in various National & International companies. This cell helps students in different areas, including preparing them for interviews, group discussion and exposure to different job profiles.
We also arrange Mega Open/Closed campus drives, in which companies come to RKDF University, Bhopal, for placement. To date, more than 100 companies have conducted their closed and open campus drives and provided jobs to around 5000 students.
What led to the different accreditations and recognitions from the likes of NAAC and UGC?
The RKDF University has received an A+ grade from NAAC for its first round of accreditation with 3.28 grade points. We also got recognition from the Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (SIRO), Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. The Homoeopathy department of the University has received an A+ grade from Quality Control of India (QCI).
The University has also been recognised by UGC under 2F and by various government agencies and departments, including National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), and Ministry of Power (MOP).
How is RKDF University looking at multidisciplinary R&D programs?
The R&D programs in RKDF University are not limited to the routine areas but extend outside the confines of traditional education to drive students and faculty to the forefront of global competitiveness and cutting-edge research. The University allows faculty to collaborate with scientists/faculty working in the associated interdisciplinary areas and develop multidisciplinary research proposals.
The University has also been recognised by various national & international research agencies, including RPI University USA, USLLC USA, National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) and Ministry of Power (MOP). Some of the interdisciplinary projects developed by faculty and students of the University include Dental Conduction Device, Nano-salt Chulha, Thermo-electric generators, and Heartbeat Monitoring Device.
Our projects are being given financial support from MPCST, National Academy of Sciences, India, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) and Ministry of Power (MOP). This year, our faculty members have submitted various research proposals to funding agencies such as ICSSSR, DST, DBT, BIRAC, etc.
How is RKDF University looking to leverage AI and other new-gen technologies to enhance learning quality?
The RKDF University is continuously leveraging AI and other new-gen technologies, including adaptive interactive learning systems such as AI-powered Interactive Study Panels. The primary goal is to generate an efficient, accessible, and engaging learning experience for its students. The university has introduced AI as a UG program. Data mining and machine learning are other electives made available to students.
How is RKDF University supporting students from different socio-economic strata?
The RKDF University support students of different socioeconomic status by providing financial assistance, generating an inclusive campus environment and offering academic support. Regular counselling sessions are also conducted to keep them mentally fit and avoid any unnecessary depression.
Some of the schemes offered by RKDF University include Savitribai Phule Scholarship, Reduction in Tuition fees for Meritorious Students of marginalised class and Scholarship for in-house needy students pursuing higher studies.
How do you look at revisions of academic curricula to incorporate the latest industry best practices?
In tune with the UGC and NAAC guidelines, the university continuously revises its academic curricula to incorporate the latest industry best practices. The curriculum is revised as per industry demands, focusing on developing efficient practical skills and collaborations with industry professionals. It primarily aims to bridge the gap between the industry needs, academic knowledge and workforce.
