Dr Manoj B. Daigavane is the Principal of Government Polytechnic (An Autonomous institute of Government of Maharashtra established in 1914), Nagpur. He has been in the field of education for the past 32 years. He is a Member of IEEE, a Life Member of the Indian Society for Technical Education (LMISTE) and a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers India (FIE). He has been the Technical Session Chair for many International and National Conferences. He has 24 publications in international journals, 30 in International conferences. He has also published a book on Low-Cost DC High Voltage Generator for Industries and Laboratories.

GPN Nagpur

What is your philosophy of leadership?

“To prepare a holistic strategy enabling unified growth and development”

I would use the word ‘Empowering’ to describe my leadership style. I believe that a leader should not merely be a person with academic accolades, but rather be a well-rounded individual. He/She must have the appropriate experience coupled with suitable personal qualities to consider the interests of all the stakeholders. I believe that every individual has something to bring to the table and by pushing them in the right direction they can achieve great heights. 

How does the curriculum of Government Polytechnic College ensure the best practice of industry? 

“Our institute strives to incorporate the latest subjects and topics in the curriculum”

Creativity and innovation are great ways to manage the disruptions and complexities of the 21st Century. I have always empowered and will continue to empower the students and teachers to be resourceful, flexible and creative. I believe that it is also essential to promote topics that are outside the box and are addressed less frequently than basic classroom instruction skills. These may include maintaining a stress-free life, innovatively reaching students, and bringing the classroom to life. 

Any insights into how your Institute welcomes students of different socio-economic backgrounds? 

“By providing value-based quality education at an affordable cost”

The University will fulfil this by addressing the needs of qualified students from differing interests, plans, expectations, and ages. We aim to empower the youth of the rural and semi-urban area with the best of traditional education. Also, enable them with the all-important professional and career-oriented skills that are vital in the contemporary global scenario. 

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What do you think your responsibilities to the Institute and the students are?

“To provide academic and entrepreneurial opportunities to students and faculties alike” 

The University shall encourage the active role of its faculty and students in addressing the social, cultural, environmental, and economic needs of the region. This will be done by providing leadership, resources, and expertise for innovation and problem-solving. Students should actively participate in society building activities.

What do you think should be the Institute’s top priority over the next 10 years?

“Create an efficient and lean organizational setup at the Main Campus and Regional Centres”

  • The Academic Reforms include curriculum development and dynamic syllabi to meet the needs of the industry. 
  • Establishing a paperless e-Office for efficient, responsive and accountable administration 
  • Revised curriculum involving academic autonomy. This will include a choice-based credit system as well as electives from the second year. 
  • Hands-on training, project-based learning and self-paced learning are other aspects that will be included in the curriculum. 
  • Capacity building of faculty in specified areas like e-attendance, website security, data analytics, etc.
  • Development of Advanced Studies centres and centres of excellence in specified areas.

What has been your vision for this autonomous Institute?

“I aim to create an ambience in which new ideas, research and scholarship flourish”

I intend to make this University a remarkable part of the country’s educational system that provides comprehensive education. This is a safe place for the students who seek to discover, interpret and communicate knowledge. When reflecting on attaining knowledge and skill development, I intend to have the ability to listen to everyone involved in the educational community. Furthermore, I also propose to develop the aspects of affordability, employability and accessibility. 

What would you like people to know about your Institute they may not know?

“Various courses on dynamic topics of AI, Data analytics and Continuing Education Programmes are conducted regularly” 

In the field of education, new thoughts, techniques and devices are rising rapidly. It is essential that you stay on top of these issues, understand them, and know how to communicate. I have always advocated these ideas. In these testing times, I tried to motivate our students to finish different courses on platforms like Coursera and Udemy. Moreover, our institute also conducted courses for the students on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to keep up with the developing trends. 

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

“By openly seeking and sharing knowledge with key stakeholders”

I believe in an open-door policy. I have adapted to the digital ecosystem and now collaborate with others virtually to ensure the best decision making. In the last year, I have revamped the induction program for students by interacting with them more efficiently. Laying down a two-way communication channel from the very beginning is essential in an academic setting.

Any suggestions you would like to give to the aspiring students?

“Evaluate your choice of career based on your interest and passion”

As a student, you must look towards holistically enhancing your profile. Pursue your hobbies, take new language classes, do community service and focus on physical health. This will help you in exploring yourself, give you a boost of confidence and also provide you with an edge in future. Also, understand the value of networking. Treat everyone with respect and compassion.