Dr. Arpana Rana is Principal at Advanced Institute of Pharmacy. She has completed her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry. She has 15 years of teaching and 4 years research experience. She is a member of various scientific bodies such as the Association of Pharmaceutical Teachers of India (APTI), the Indian Pharmaceutical Graduate’s Association (IPGA), Indian Society of Analytical Scientists (ISAS). She is also a Reviewer of Scientific Journals such as the Journal of Enzyme Inhibition and Medicinal Chemistry, Archiv der Pharmazie, Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences as well as a Research Guide for M. Pharmacy Thesis. 

Advanced Institute of Pharmacy

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

“Desire to provide quality education and eagerness of learning new things”

The quality of education and the standards of pharmacy practice are key factors for the recognition of my profession. The implementation of pharmaceutical care and advancement in pharmacy education is driving the profession toward excellence. It is seen in the areas of practice, research and innovations by providing healthcare services to society which motivate me and connect to the education sector.

What is your philosophy of leadership? 

“The development of oneself and others through motivation, learning, and development”

Education leadership is the process of enlisting and guiding the talents and energies of teachers, students and even parents. I believe in developing myself and others try to keep myself up to date with the latest developments and seek feedback from staff and students. I believe in encouraging collaboration and partnerships with other education providers, resulting in broader impacts on the education system.

How does the curriculum of your institute ensure the best practice of industry?

“An ideal blending of inputs from academicians and industry experts"

The curriculum for the individual courses has been designed by a perfect blend of inputs from renowned academicians and industry experts. The obsolete topics are updated with the latest topics which include recent techniques developed through research and adopted by the industry. Add on programs, practical training for skill acquisition and theoretical knowledge serves to equip the students to face real-time situations. We follow the curriculum prescribed by PCI.

Check Advanced Institute of Pharmacy Courses & Fees

What do you think should be the institute's top priority over the next 10 Years?

“To gain a ranking amongst the most premier institutions in India”

Advanced Educational institutions have a 15 years old legacy. It is the pioneer college with technical education courses like engineering, pharmacy, management in the rural area. The institute always strives to provide quality education. It is the best college in the area but our aim for the next 10 years is to reach Delhi NCR and to appear in the list of most premier institutions of India with quality education.

What would you like people to know about your institute they may know?

“We promote practical and project-based learning in a safe classroom environment”

I want to highlight that we follow a smart learning methodology for students. We facilitate students and promote practical and project-based learning. We have a trusting classroom complete with active, engaging learning opportunities. The passion of students should be used by incorporating them into lessons.

What are the most important functions in the role that you play in your institute?

“Maintaining a balance between administrative and academic duties”

One of the most important responsibilities for me is the regulation of academic and general administration and monitoring the systems, policies, and procedures. Also, Principals’ decisions and strategies are critically important to institutional performance. They are accountable for high levels of student achievement. Being the Principal, giving guidance, direction and counselling to students and teachers is of utmost importance to me. Enhancing research and procuring new materials to improve the experience of both students and teachers are some of my current responsibilities. 

What are the academic challenges faced by the education sector and your institute?

“There is a constant need to improve the student achievements in campus”

Principals are facing challenges each day towards improving student achievement on the campus. Principals are faced with complex and difficult challenges to turn around the campus with academic underperformance. Decision making, recruitment, scheduling, faculty evaluation, attendance, curriculum design, communication and collaboration are various types of challenges that we face regularly.

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

“Facilitating an environment of proper guidance is essential”

A relationship is a positive connection between students and teachers in an institute that will foster positive social interaction and establish a nurturing environment of trust support. Interaction with students in a responsible manner can develop positive relationships. I speak to people openly and always encourage them to do so. I make sure that I am always approachable for suggestions and advice for academic developments.

Click Advanced Institute of Pharmacy Placements

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

“Students must focus on acquiring both technical and soft skills”

In a world of rapid change, young people need the right mix of skills to thrive. Access to information is increasing, skills like communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and flexibility have always been important for work and life. I recommend three simple and basic sets of values for youth: life, education, freedom. If you place a high value on each of these and consider them in your decisions, it will affect the choices you make. The simple but effective process of thought will help you avoid making critical mistakes.