Seeking Truth

Tell us about your current work?

I currently work as the Secretary of Samagra Shikshana Samithi Trust, which encompasses seven institutions specialised in the areas of management, commerce, life sciences, paramedical sciences, nursing and law. My role primarily involves administration and management of the Trust.

What is the need of the hour in the education sector?

First is realigning ourselves as institutions from degree granting entities to focussing on skill development. Reskilling of faculty and encouraging more talent to enter the education sector is paramount. I believe that great teachers build great nations. Also, we need more meaningful and impactful collaborations with the industry. Finally, bringing in more institutional autonomy would help in building quality institutions across the country.

What makes you stand out among competitors in your sector?

The willingness to experiment and learn from experimentation has been a game-changer. Our ability to think of ourselves as a start-up gives us the zeal to learn daily from others as well as reflect on our journey. We believe in focussing on a very few things and that concentration yields in greater results and makes us stand apart from the competition.

How would you define your philosophy of education?

To me, education is life and one that is limitless. Irrespective of formal or informal, synchronous or asynchronous, education is beyond just academics. We as humans should embrace learning, unlearning and relearning. It is hard to define education as it encompasses various facets of life and if I had to define it in the fewest of words, it is ‘seeking truth’. That journey of seeking truth never ceases to end, it constantly evolves and there is always some question worth pondering over.

What changes would you like to spearhead?

I am a big believer in implementing technology the right way and working towards building our digital learning resources that can help learners learn more effectively and conveniently. I am also working on building a technology platform that could help institutions self-regulate and self-assess quality, one that is aligned with NEP 2020.

How does it feel to be a part of the 40 Under 40 club?

Firstly, I would like to thank the eminent Jury for this recognition. I feel ecstatic, honoured and humbled on receiving this prestigious award. It drives me more towards building quality institutions in the country and helping others with the same unified vision.