Know all about SRM University Delhi-NCR: Interview with Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal (VC)

In this exclusive interview with Careers360 Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal spoke about the vision of SRM University Delhi-NCR vision, NEP and its importance, and SRM University placements. Scroll down the article to know more about SRM University Sonepat.

About: SRM University, Delhi-NCR, Sonepat, Haryana (SRMUH) was established in 2013 under the Haryana Private University Act 2006. SRM University Sonepat is a private university established by the SRM Institute of Science and Technology Trust (SRM IST Trust). SRMUH is a AAAA+ rated university in North India, by Careers360. SRM University Sonepat or SRMUH offers over 70 UG, PG and PhD programmes in 20+ disciplines. Admission at SRM Sonepat is offered in two modes: Early Admission Mode (EAM) and Regular Admission Mode (RAM). SRM University Sonepat has been ranked among the top 50 universities in India.

Careers360: What is your vision for SRM University Delhi NCR?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: SRM University Delhi-NCR, Sonepat aims to emerge as a leading world-class university that creates and disseminates knowledge, upholding the highest standards of instruction in medicine and health sciences, engineering and technology, management, law, science and humanities. Along with academic excellence and skills, SRM University curriculum imparts integrity and social sensitivity to mould our graduates, who may be best suited to serve the nation and the world.

Careers360: NEP is now in place at most universities. Can you give an insight into its impact and the benefits students would get?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: As our education system was traditionally based on the Anglo-Saxon method, where we judged the student by just passing and failing. We ignore the major part of learning which the student has not learned. So, there is a difference between education, which leads to degrees, and learning, which leads to knowledge.

NEP focuses more on knowledge rather than giving degrees to students. NEP gives us a wide range of options where a student can take subjects outside the main discipline, which is also credit-based. The socioeconomic conditions of our nation are also recognised by NEP, and many students are unable to continue their education. As a result, they have the option to leave the programme and return later to complete it, provided that the programme is now four years long rather than the three years of an undergraduate degree.

Also See: SRM University Courses

Careers360: Outcome-based learning and pedagogy is a vital factor. How is this brought about?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: At SRM, before preparing the curriculum, the faculty in each programme define specific outcomes and educational goals. The curriculum at SRM University is based on outcome-based learning, which is how CEOs, PEOs, and PSOs are established. These are carefully deliberated among faculty to clarify the expected student achievements by the end of the programme. Moreover, SRM University Delhi NCR annually reviews 80% of the curriculum, removing outdated content, incorporating new material, and adjusting existing components to stay updated with educational and industry needs.

Careers360: Can you give an insight into the research-oriented programmes with mandatory internships that are now part of the system?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: For NEP, internships are mandatory because the focus of NEP is more on learning outcomes, which would be experiential learning. At SRM University, experiential learning occurs through research-focused initiatives. We boast state-of-the-art labs and collaborations with industry leaders such as Siemens, Bosch, and IBM. The Center for Drug Discovery and Development (C4D) at SRM University Delhi NCR exemplifies the commitment to research, requiring faculty to publish at least two research articles annually in reputable journals indexed in Scopus or Web of Science. Our educational philosophy, encapsulated in our motto "learn, leap, and lead," underscores our holistic approach to nurturing students through mentorship and comprehensive development.

Careers360: Student diversity and inclusivity are indicators of educational equity. In your opinion, how do they contribute to a well-rounded environment, and how is this factored into the SRM selection process?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: The diversity and inclusivity at SRM University Delhi NCR, with students coming from various states across India such as Kerala, West Bengal, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, as well as international. SRM University values inclusivity, with a diverse student population that includes students from different regions and backgrounds. SRM University also prioritises the inclusion of Haryana students, with a 25% reservation for girls in accordance with government statutes. This commitment to diversity enriches the university environment and is an integral part of the SRM selection process.

Careers360: With changing technology comes changing needs of the industry and this falls back onto the educational institutes. How does SRM keep in sync with the changing trends and how does it ensure its students are ready to meet the demands of the industry?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: SRM University Delhi NCR approach to staying aligned with industry trends and preparing students for industry demands through a three-pronged strategy:

1. Continuous Faculty Development: SRM University ensures its faculty stay updated through continuous development programmes. Faculty members at SRM University are encouraged to attend seminars, workshops, and training programmes both locally and internationally. SRM University supports this initiative by providing grants and salary support during their international visits. This helps keep the faculty well-informed about the latest technological developments directly from the industry.

2. Curriculum Revision: SRM University Delhi regularly revises its curriculum to incorporate current industry needs. For instance, topics like Artificial Intelligence (AI) were quickly integrated into the curriculum as they became relevant, even for non-technical programs like law. The adoption of the National Education Policy (NEP) allows flexibility for students to choose interdisciplinary courses, ensuring they receive updated and relevant knowledge.

3. Supportive Management: SRM University Delhi management plays a crucial role in supporting infrastructure upgrades. For example, when the Computer Science department needed new computers to run specific software, the management quickly responded by providing new machines and creating additional labs. This proactive support ensures that students and faculty have access to facilities, which are essential for practical learning and research.

Overall, SRM University Delhi strategy revolves around keeping its faculty updated, revising the curriculum promptly, and providing robust infrastructure support, all of which are aimed at equipping students with the skills needed to excel in the dynamic industry landscape.

Also Read: SRM University Delhi facilities

Careers360: Please give details on SRM University Delhi NCR's international collaborations and exchange programmes. How is the student experience enhanced through these?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: SRM University Delhi NCR actively participates in international collaborations and exchange programmes to enrich the student experience. The administration team of SRM University Delhi participates in educational fairs all over the world, including those in South Africa, Abu Dhabi, Nepal, and Bhutan. Recently, SRM hosted two batches of 30 students each from Bhutan, representing various schools. These interactions with government officials and school principals help in understanding and incorporating international educational systems, thereby enhancing the overall educational experience for SRM University Delhi students.

Careers360: What about the exchange programmes for some of the students going abroad with your collaboration?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: SRM University facilitates exchange programmes for students through various MOUs. For instance, in a recent MOU with a university in Colombo, 30 students from Sri Lanka enroll in the hotel management programme every year. These students spend three years studying at SRM and then complete a mandatory one-year internship in Sri Lanka, where they gain practical experience in their field of study, particularly in cuisine and related skills. Upon completion, they receive their degree from SRM University, enhancing their global educational experience.

Also See: SRM University Delhi admissions

Careers360: Placements are a crucial factor. This is the first thing that parents and students look at while joining an institution. Can you give some insights on the placements at SRM Sonipat?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: SRM University has a strong placement and internship department led by a director who focuses on enhancing students' soft skills. Many students lack initial exposure to the professional world, so the university provides training in interview techniques and CV preparation through skilled trainers. Mandatory internships further prepare students, often leading to job offers from the same organisations. Overall, SRM University Delhi placement cell boasts a strong placement record, ensuring students are well-prepared and competitive in the job market.

Careers360: If you had to give a message to students, what would you choose to tell them?

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal: Learning at the institutional level, one has to have a focused and consistent approach. Setting clear targets and goals right from the beginning of their academic journey to achieve success in life is important.

Dr. Paramjit S. Jaswal

Vice-Chancellor, SRM University Delhi-NCR, Sonepat

A Ph.D., PDF (London), and a Fulbright Scholar, Dr. Jaswal comes with 42 years of teaching experience. Dr. Jaswal has authored/edited more than 44 books. His Book on "Environmental Law” second edition (2003) has been cited thrice by the Supreme Court of India in the landmark judgements. Prior to joining SRM University Sonepat, Dr. Paramjit Jaswal was vice chancellor at Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab and Hidayatullah, National Law University, Raipur, Chhattisgarh.

Dr. Jaswal has been awarded the Nehru-Centenary British Fellowship Award for the year 1991-92 for doing post-doctoral research in the Department of Law, School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, London (U.K.), Bharat Jyoti Award in 2006, Eminent Great Personality of India award in 2011 and many others.