Mr. Raza Ahmed Khan is presently serving as the Dean of Student Affairs and Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering at NSAKCET. He has more than 28 years of rich experience in Teaching, Research, and Administration in India and Abroad. Earlier, has served as the Vice Principal (Academics), Head of the Department (Mechanical Engineering), and Principal (Polytechnic). He has been awarded the prestigious fellowship of the “The Institution of Engineers (India)” award in 2015. He is also a life member of the Indian Society for Technical Education (ISTE). He has published about 20 Research Papers in National and International Journals and Conferences. He has also co-authored a textbook on Engineering Mechanics, published by Jayam Publications. He has served as a Visiting Faculty for the Facilities & Services Planning (FSP) Department at Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University (JNAFAU) Hyderabad. Mr. Raza Khan is the Faculty Advisor for the ISHRAE Students Chapter and IEOM Students Chapter at NSAKCET. He also serves as SPOC for the SWAYAM-NPTEL Local Chapter at NSAKCET where he keeps encouraging the students to enroll for these online professional courses. He supervises a vibrant Students Club that covers all the facets of student life at NSAKCET. During the last Academic Year 2022-23, the Deanship of Student Affairs organized various events like Sports Competitions, Cultural Fest, Mega Job Fair, Projects Expo, Flag Run, Global Education Fair, Entrepreneurship Workshop, Personality Development Sessions, Career Guidance Lectures, and Technical Seminars. He works tirelessly to facilitate students with opportunities to develop their interests, creativity, talents, skills, and ethics to nurture their comprehensive and versatile growth. He is a versatile personality with excellent leadership, communication, team building, and presentation skills. He is approachable to students for their counseling and to resolve their grievances. He is available to new students for a discussion on admissions and career counseling.

Nawab Shah Alam Khan College Of Engineering

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

The sense of contributing to society through student counseling and guidance has inspired me to pursue a career in higher education administration. Hence, committed and continuous efforts throughout have landed me in the current role as the Dean, of Student Affairs.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing higher education today, and how do you think your institution is addressing those challenges?

The biggest challenge facing higher education today is the quality of students, faculty, and institutional facilities. We have been motivating our students and faculty to avail the facility of online professional courses to improve their knowledge and skills. We have taken utmost care in establishing all required labs along with other co-curricular and extra-curricular facilities for the overall development of students.

What do you think sets your institution apart from other colleges and universities and how do you communicate that unique value proportion to students and other Stakeholders?

Ours is a lush green autonomous campus in the center of Hyderabad city, well connected by bus, metro, and MMTS. Qualified and experienced faculty, spacious classrooms, well-equipped labs and library, computing facilities, discipline, and placements make it a unique combination.

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

We encourage our students to have a balanced timetable with appropriate slots for academics, sports, family, and self. We also motivate them to excel in all spheres of life and to aim for competitive examinations and/or higher studies in their chosen fields.

How do you approach decision-making in your role and how do you balance the needs of different stakeholders when making difficult decisions?

As the Dean of Nawab Shah Alam Khan College of Engineering & Technology, my decision-making approach revolves around inclusivity, data-driven analysis, and open communication. I involve all relevant stakeholders in the process, seek feedback, and consider their perspectives. Balancing stakeholder needs and ethical considerations, I aim for solutions that benefit the majority while aligning with the college’s long-term vision. Regular review and adaptation ensure decisions remain effective and contribute to a positive academic community.

What new initiatives and collaborations has the University established with Industry Leaders to promote industry-specific courses?

As the Dean of Nawab Shah Alam Khan College of Engineering & Technology, we have proactively fostered collaborations with industry leaders to promote industry-specific courses. Through strategic partnerships, guest lectures, and workshops, we ensure our curriculum stays aligned with current industry demands. Internships and placement programs offer valuable hands-on experience, enhancing our students’ employability. Engaging in industry-driven projects and research collaborations empowers our students with real-world insights and problem-solving skills. Additionally, skill development programs and technology transfer initiatives cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among our students, making them well-prepared and sought-after professionals in the competitive job market.