Demonstrating strong organisational skills and a positive outlook, Dr. Nikita Kulkarni is presently working as HOD-Computer at Trinity Academy of Engineering, Pune. Certified in the field of Data Science with 16 years of teaching experience, she has gained two patents to her credit and has authored a book on Infrastructure Security as well. Along with publishing 25 papers in various International journals, she has received Best Paper Award at International Conference on Smart Internet of Everything, Pune, in 2019. Also, Dr. Nikita is a profound member of The Indian Society for Technical Education.

Trinity Academy of Engineering

What are the key factors that keep you connected with the education sector?

“Widespread information literacy and deeper learning”

With the commencement of the digital revolution in education, students seem to need higher information literacy, or the potential to process analysis of data and information. I want to help my students to achieve these techniques so that it will help them in the future to choose the appropriate response. I can constantly acquire knowledge as teaching is the field of continuous learning. It gives me opportunities to work as an educator, animator and pedagogue. 

How does your curriculum ensure the best practice of industry?

“Outcome based education pedagogy and training sessions”

The college uses a well-designed and structured course curriculum, developing course plans that provide objectives and outcomes on a constant basis. Students' learning styles are assessed using a learning style questionnaire. Despite the fact that the college is affiliated with SPPU, the curriculum gaps are filled through design-based experiments, Industry internships, live projects, etc. College has a training and placement cell which conducts regular training and placement in the field of communication skills and aptitude to make the students employable. Also, our Alumni Portal to communicate with Alumni and take advantage of their services such as guest lectures, internship opportunities and placements, aid skill development of students. 

How in your opinion will the New Education Policy 2020 benefit the students?

“High-quality educational set and value based learning”

The New Education Policy will put an emphasis on students’ practical knowledge rather than rote learning, encouraging students to cultivate a scientific temperament from an early age. As it is focused on study and skill-oriented learning, including hands-on learning, experiential learning, critical thinking, regional languages, as well as the inclusion of contemporary subjects such as coding, big data, and AI, it will surely create new and better job opportunities for students. This technology-oriented new education policy focuses on advanced technology from a young age and assists young minds in preparing for the digital future. NEP 2020 will improve our country’s educational and social well-being and make it a global leader in education.

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What do you see as your academy’s greatest strengths?

“Added avenues of employment opportunities and skill enhancement”

We promote entrepreneurship among the youth and nurture a passion for self-employment among students through our in-house Entrepreneurship Development Cell, that opens wide gates for creation of new knowledge-based innovative hi-tech ventures, industries and new breed of techno-preneurs. We also have a Technology Business Incubation Centre to create awareness about Technology Incubation and Commercialization of R & D products and processes. This helps to create value added jobs and services, and promote small and medium industries. To evolve educational programs which are consistent with the broad requirements of the industry and capable of coping-up with the accelerating pace of technological development, we have established an Institute Interaction Cell to cultivate the strong links with industry and catalyze skill development of students. Moreover, to prepare the student to face the different competitive examinations and plan and conduct Guidance and motivational programmes for aspiring candidates, we have a higher education cell as well. 

What are some of the biggest challenges you see for higher education?

“Growing need for lifelong learning and up to the mark technical advancement”

To remain effective, we must continue to learn and upgrade our skills. Obviously, knowledge work will become more prevalent in the digital economy. More occupations will be shaped by technological innovation, labour automation, and more versatile and fluid work, all of which will necessitate significant engagement with technology. The changing demands of students accelerate impact on the education sector, just as they do in every other business sector. Student trends are shifting, and as a result, new standards for seamless higher education have emerged. The emphasis on research and innovation, better educational system for all, faculty qualifications and developed infrastructure in higher education institutions are a foremost challenge for us. 

How do you tend to establish a healthy environment in your institute?

“Build positive relationship and clear communication”

I tend to establish good and smooth relationships with students and parents, and faculty and co-workers that endorse the institution. I take part in regular conversations and encourage them to give their feedback whenever possible. Communication is an important part of your professional networking and can lead you to great results if done in a transparent manner. Simple methods of collaboration, interaction and one-to-one talk sessions can establish a great learning environment for all. 

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Any suggestions you would like to give to the current youth?

“Live a healthy lifestyle and develop yourself as a qualified professional”

The youth should give priority to academics as well as to personal growth. Keep your body fit and mind calmer. Let you introduce each and every aspect of life, be it professional or social, art or culture. Trust yourself with amazing potential. Learn new things every day.