Prof. Dinesh K. Kanchan is the Dean at ITM (SLS) Baroda University. He holds an M.Sc. degree in Physics and earned his Ph.D. from IIT Delhi. Over the course of his career, he contributed to various institutions including Sagar University, and Udaipur University (1986-1991), and subsequently joined M.S. University in 1991. His academic journey includes supervising the completion of 15 Ph.D. degrees and successfully overseeing 9 research projects funded by esteemed organizations such as DST, UGC, and IUAC (Nuclear Science Center) in New Delhi. He is the author of more than 170 research articles published in prominent international journals. Additionally, he actively participated in over 85 national and international conferences and workshops, both as an attendee and as a speaker. He has also contributed to the peer-review process by serving as an expert reviewer for approximately 60 international journals. 

ITM (SLS) Baroda University

What inspired you to pursue a career in higher education and what drew you to your current role as a dean?

Most people are drawn to careers in higher education due to their passion for learning, desire to share knowledge, and commitment to shaping the next generation. As a Dean, I am inspired by the opportunity to lead, innovate, and foster academic excellence within an institution guiding both students and faculties towards success.

What do you see are the biggest challenges facing higher education today and how do you think your institute is addressing those challenges?

It is adapting to rapid technological advancement and changing learning preferences. My university is addressing these issues by integrating digital tools, and flexible learning options, and promoting online resources to enhance the overall learning experiences and accessibility for the students. Also, the rising cost of education is a real concern. To tackle this our university has actively started creating a large number of scholarship opportunities, and financial aid programs for poor people to mitigate the financial burden on the students while maintaining their quality education.

What do you think sets your institute apart and how do you communicate that unique value proposition to the students and other stakeholders?

It is the commitment to experiential learning. We provide students with real-world opportunities, industry partnerships, and hands-on projects that bridge the between theory and practice. This unique approach equips our graduate students with practical skills and competitive in the job market and makes them employable in the industries.

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What are your primary responsibilities as a dean and how do you balance them with other aspects of your job?

As a dean, the primary responsibilities include overseeing the academic programs, faculty development, student affairs, and the university or institutional advancements. Here as a dean in training & placement and also, I am working as a dean of research and consultancy at the university, I also engage in strategic planning and fostering a positive learning environment and research activities. Also, to balance these tasks which actually involves effective time management as I am working on two or three portfolios and there is a large number of teachers and students to be tackled, this involves effective management, a delegation of power to the different heads and the teachers, and collaborations with the departmental heads for accomplishing our tasks.

Being the dean of ITM (SLS) at Baroda University, how would you describe your leadership style?

As a dean of ITM Baroda University, my leadership style is mainly collaborative and visionary. I believe in creating an environment of open communication where the ideas of the faculty students, staff, and other stakeholders are valued. I strive to empower and support my team, encouraging innovation and professional growth. I also emphasize in clear strategic vision aligning academic excellence and the holistic development of our students. These are roles generally I take and carry on.

How does the curriculum of ITM (SLS) Baroda University ensure the best practice of the industry?

ITM (SLS) Baroda University is designed to ensure the best practices of the industry through a dynamic plan of theoretical knowledge as well as practical application. We regularly collaborate with industry experts to develop and update our courses ensuring they are aligned with the current trends, emerging technologies, and real-world demands. We offer internships, workshops, projects, and industry with industry partners enabling these students to gain hands-on experience and a deep understanding of industry practices to make them employable.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in pursuing a career in higher education administration and how do you see the field evolving in the years to come?

I would advise developing educational leadership, management, and communication skills in this higher education field. Seek opportunities to gain experience in various administrative roles within academic institutions to understand their complexities. Higher education administration is likely to be influenced by technology, changing student demographics, global trends, and other technological aspects that are emerging. The focus on inclusivity, diversity, and online education is expected to grow. As administrative roles become more interdisciplinary, professionals who can bridge traditional administrative functions and innovative practices will be high in demand therefore continuous learning and flexibility will be essential to success in this evolving landscape.

Any suggestions you would like to give to current youths and aspiring students?

Embrace a growth mindset, and secondly, pursue learning and passion. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, take on the challenges. These experiences often lead to the most significant personal and professional growth. So, be adaptable to change as the world is evolving rapidly. And I would finally ask the students to remember that success is a result of consistent effort, resilience, and they must be willing to learn from both success and failure. Therefore, by staying curious and dedicated, the students will be well-equipped to navigate the path ahead and achieve their goals.