Continuous Learning & Skill Enhancement Are Founding Principles: Dr Ram Sharma, UPES CCE

In an exclusive interview with BW Education, Dr Ram Sharma, Vice Chancellor, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), delves into the rich history and founding principles of UPES Centre for Continuing Education (CCE). Sharma highlights the institution's commitment to continuous learning, skill enhancement and industry-oriented education. The interview also sheds light on UPES CCE's focus on preparing graduates for successful careers and exciting future, including the integration of artificial intelligence and comprehensive student support initiatives. Edited excerpts from the interview:

Tell us about the history and founding principles of UPES CCE.

UPES CCE is an initiative by the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, functioning since 2007 in India. It was established with the aim of providing lifelong learning opportunities and professional development to working professionals and executives. The founding principles of UPES CCE revolves around the concepts of continuous learning, skill enhancement and industry-oriented education. It conducts open and distance learning programmes as well as online programmes. Its programmes follow the curriculum and academic processes of any regular programme at UPES. CCE resonates with the university’s singular purpose, which is to enable each learner to achieve their individual purpose in life through the guiding light of knowledge.

How does UPES CCE differentiate itself from other universities in India? 

UPES CCE differentiates itself from other universities in India through its unique offerings and approach. Some key differentiating factors include:

Industry-aligned programmes: Designed in collaboration with leading industry experts, including AI in the curriculum to stay up to date with the trends.

Specialised domains: Programmes in high-demand domains include Health and Safety Environment, Renewable, Power, Oil and Gas.

Flexibility and convenience: With online and distance learning programmes, which provide flexibility for working professionals, students can balance education with their professional and personal commitments.

Industry partnerships and collaborations: Strong ties with industry partners like KPMG, Adani and Microsoft enable students to gain exposure to real-world projects and placement opportunities.

Career services: Dedicated career services support for students, including assistance with resume building, interview preparation, and job placement.

Recognition and accreditations: Accredited by organisations like the UGC, DEB, NAAC A, QS 5 Star, etc.

What are the key academic programmes and courses offered by UPES CCE? 

UPES CCE emphasises the importance of experiential learning and offers programmes designed to enhance critical thinking, problem-solving and leadership skills. It offers various Undergraduate, Postgraduate courses and certifications in high-growth areas like Health Safety and Environment, Renewable, Power, Oil and Gas. 

The key academic programmes and courses offered by UPES CCE are Certificate Programmes, Postgraduate Programmes, MBA Programmes, BBA Programmes. The programmes are designed to enhance professional skills, provide industry-relevant knowledge and foster career growth. 

Moreover, the courses are recognised and accredited by relevant regulatory bodies like UGC, NAAC A, QS, NIRF. Also, the learning experience includes interactive sessions, case studies, assignments and assessments to facilitate holistic learning and skill development.

How does UPES CCE integrate industry experience and practical training into its academic programmes? 

UPES CCE integrates industry experience and practical training into its academic programmes. The curriculum aligns with current industry trends and requirements including AI and innovations. Guest lectures by industry professionals are also conducted to provide insight and practical knowledge. Students work on real-world challenges and scenarios provided by industry partners. This allows them to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations. 

Furthermore, it facilitates internships for students with renowned companies and industry bodies, fostering partnerships that contribute to practical training and exposure for students. 

It also conducts workshops and skill development programmes that focus on enhancing students' practical skills and provides career support services, including resume building, interview preparation and placement assistance, to help students secure employment opportunities in relevant industries.

How does UPES CCE support and facilitate research and innovation among its faculty and students? 

UPES CCE supports and facilitates research and innovation among its faculty and via diverse initiatives and programmes. It aims to bridge the lag between academia and industry by offering industry-relevant programmes and courses. 

UPES CCE stresses the importance of experiential learning and provides programmes crafted to enhance critical thinking, problem-solving and leadership skills. It inspires faculty and students to engage in research activities across different domains. 

It also offers funding and resources to support research projects, facilitating faculty and students pursuit of innovative ideas and solutions. 

Furthermore, it organises research conferences, symposiums and workshops to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration and provides access to state-of-the-art research facilities and laboratories, enabling faculty and students to conduct cutting-edge research in their respective fields. Additionally, it provides mentorship and guidance to faculty and students.

How does UPES CCE prepare its graduates for successful careers in their respective fields? 

UPES CCE focuses on providing industry-oriented education. The curriculum is crafted in collaboration with industry experts and offers specialised PG, UG courses and certifications in areas such as Health Safety and Environment, Renewable, Power, Oil and Gas and more, which are highly relevant in today's job market.

The faculty members at UPES CCE are experienced professionals who bring real-world industry insights into the classroom. It also offers opportunities for hands-on learning through industry internships, projects and case studies.

It also arranges career development programmes, including resume-building workshops, interview preparation sessions and personality development classes, to enhance students' employability skills. 

There is also a devoted placement cell that helps students secure internships and job placements by organising recruitment drives, connecting students with potential employers and offering career counseling services. 

The college concentrates on holistic development by encouraging extracurricular activities, leadership development programmes and entrepreneurship initiatives, fostering a well-rounded skill set in graduates. UPES CCE underscores lifelong learning and offers opportunities for alumni engagement and continued professional development.

Can you share any exciting future plans or developments for UPES CCE? 

UPES CCE's future plans and developments mirror its commitment to evolving education with advanced technologies, offering holistic student support and preparing students for global career opportunities. 

UPES CCE entails an AI module in all its programmes. This integration of artificial intelligence will enhance the learning experience, provide advanced analytics and equip students with future-ready skills. 

Also, through the 'We Care' initiative, the institution goes beyond education and provides additional support like:

Medical Insurance: All students are offered medical insurance and the cost of the premium is covered by UPES CCE. This ensures that students have access to healthcare facilities without financial burden.

24/7 Mental Health Career Counselor: A dedicated mental health career counselor is available round the clock to support students' mental wellbeing.  

Furthermore, UPES CCE offers global masterclasses and dual certification in its courses. These certifications enhance their resumes and professional qualifications, making them more attractive to foreign recruiters.