Rajagiri College of Management and Applied Sciences, Head of Department- Computer Science: Mr. Sijo Jacob Interview

Mr. Sijo Jacob, a post-graduate in Computer Applications, has been part of Rajagiri College of Management and Applied Sciences since 2013. Serving as the head of the department of Computer Science, he has actively contributed to the academic landscape by participating in numerous seminars and workshops across various technical domains. His dedication to teaching, coupled with an extensive understanding of programming, stands as a testament to his commitment to education.

Mr. Sijo possesses a wealth of industrial experience, having undertaken and excelled in challenging projects. His expertise spans diverse areas of software development, allowing him to stay at the forefront of emerging technologies. Renowned for his exceptional teaching abilities and precise knowledge delivery, Mr. Sijo specializes in a range of programming languages, including C, C++, VB, JAVA, PHP, ASP .NET, SharePoint, JavaScript, and numerous Database Management Systems.

Mr. Sijo’s academic credentials include an MCA from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, and a BCA from Calicut University, Calicut. Additionally, he holds an international certification as a Certified Office Professional (Microsoft). Before assuming his role as the Head of Department, Mr. Jacob served as an Associate Software Developer at Degiora Software Technologies Pvt. Ltd in Infopark, Cochin.

What is the latest program that you are offering in your institute/dept. which will help students outperform and stand apart from the crowd?

The Department of Computer Science currently provides a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) program, with plans to transition to a four-year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP) in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP). This program emphasizes the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies like programming, cybersecurity, machine learning, and data analytics into the curriculum. Moreover, there are upcoming plans to launch a specialized master's program in Artificial Intelligence (AI) soon to deepen students' understanding and practical application in this evolving field.

What are the factors that make this program the best for the students to opt?

There are several factors that contribute to making this program an excellent choice for students. The curriculum for this program, crafted in 2023, directly aligns with current industry trends. Courses focusing on programming, cybersecurity, machine learning, and data analytics cater to the high demand for these skills in the job market, ensuring graduates possess sought-after expertise. The emphasis on incorporating the latest advancements in the field reflects the program's commitment to keeping students updated with the most recent tools and methodologies. This exposure prepares them for the rapidly evolving technological landscape. The transition to a four-year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP) under the National Education Policy (NEP) underscores the program's dedication to modernising education. This upgrade offers students a more comprehensive learning experience, allowing them to select courses based on their interests. The forthcoming specialised master's program in Artificial Intelligence (AI) anticipates future industry requirements. This initiative empowers students with advanced expertise in an emerging and high-demand field, providing them with a competitive advantage.

How did you train yourself/faculty to deliver this program to the students?

The preparation of faculty to deliver an advanced program involves a multifaceted approach, incorporating ongoing professional development, practical experiences, and innovative teaching methods. Ongoing workshops, specialised training, and professional development programs are organised to keep faculty updated with advancements in AI, cybersecurity, programming, and data analytics. Workshops are focused on effectively integrating modern tools and platforms into the curriculum, ensuring faculty proficiency for impactful instruction. Faculty training emphasises creative teaching methods like flipped classrooms and project-based learning, fostering engaging and interactive learning environments. Participation in conferences and networks facilitates knowledge sharing and exposure to diverse teaching approaches, enhancing instructional strategies. Regular feedback sessions enable faculty to refine teaching methods, ensuring ongoing improvements in delivering the program's content. Providing updated resources like textbooks and technological support enables faculty to create a vibrant learning environment conducive to student success.

How do you tend to build an industry connected with this program?

Creating a strong industry connection for a program involves a multifaceted approach. To begin, establishing a strong network with industry experts who offer invaluable guidance for aligning the curriculum with current industry needs. Partnering with companies to provide opportunities for the students to gain practical experience while building crucial industry networks. Inviting professionals for seminars and workshops offers students direct insights into industry practices and emerging trends. Additionally, fostering collaborations for industry projects allows students to tackle real-world challenges. Organizing networking events, career fairs, and conferences facilitates interaction between students, faculty, and industry representatives, fostering valuable connections. Encouraging faculty-industry collaborations drives innovation and addresses industry-specific challenges. Engaging alumni in mentoring and career guidance further strengthens industry ties. Integrating industry-relevant modules and certifications within the program bridges the gap between academia and practical industry demands. Lastly, seeking regular feedback from industry partners ensures the program remains responsive to evolving industry needs, enhancing students' readiness for successful careers in the field.

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What are the types of projects that the students are working on through this program?

Through this program, students complete various types of projects that offer hands-on experience and practical application of their knowledge. They often work on live projects in collaboration with industry partners, tackling real-world challenges and gaining exposure to industry practices. Additionally, students create applications for their own business ideas, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. They undertake projects involving product development, enhancing their skills in design, development, and implementation. Moreover, they create applications aimed at automating institutional activities such as leave management and exam scheduling, providing solutions for efficient administration. Furthermore, students develop applications like those being created in the industry, enabling them to understand and apply current industry standards and technologies effectively. These diverse project types offer students a well-rounded experience, preparing them for the dynamic demands of the professional landscape.

What are the benefits and career options after pursuing this course?

Upon completing this course, students gain a multitude of benefits and diverse career opportunities. The program equips them with sought-after skills in programming, cybersecurity, machine learning, and data analytics, positioning graduates favourably in the job market. Career options span across various industries, including software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, AI research, IT consulting, and more. Graduates can pursue roles as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, AI engineers, and IT consultants, or pursue further academic research in the field. Additionally, the program's emphasis on practical learning through projects and internships enhances problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and adaptability, providing a strong foundation for professional growth and success in today's tech-driven world.

What valuable advice would you like to give the students for them to have a prosperous career ahead?

My advice to students for a prosperous career ahead would be to cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. Embrace curiosity and stay updated with emerging trends and technologies in your field of interest. Develop a robust professional network by engaging in internships, industry projects, and networking events, as these connections can open doors to opportunities. Foster resilience and persistence in overcoming challenges, as setbacks often pave the way for growth. Additionally, prioritise building strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills, as these soft skills complement technical expertise and are highly valued in the workplace. Lastly, maintain a balance between work and personal well-being to ensure sustained success and fulfilment in your career journey.

What made you decide to become a teacher?

The primary reason for my transition from the IT industry to teaching stems from a deep-seated passion for sharing knowledge and contributing to personal growth, both for myself and others. Teaching offers a fulfilling avenue to impart wisdom, inspire learning, and witness the intellectual growth of students. It provides a platform to share experiences, insights, and expertise, fostering a positive impact on individuals' lives. Moreover, the opportunity to facilitate learning and witness the development of future professionals aligns with my aspiration to contribute meaningfully to society by nurturing the potential of students and empowering them with valuable skills and knowledge.