Prof. (Dr.) Sunil K Somani is the Vice Chancellor of Oriental University. He holds an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, and a postgraduate degree in Design Engineering and Management, which he followed up by a doctorate degree in Mechanical Engineering. Before this, he was the founder and Vice-Chancellor of Medi-Caps University and has a history of working in the higher education and management industries.

Dr. Somani has strong educational and professional skills in academic and general administration, curriculum development, budgeting, design, negotiation, counselling, security analysis, and CAD. He has 33 years of experience in teaching and industry in several roles such as Vice-Chancellor, Director, Principal, and HOD.

Dr. Sunil has more than 80 publications to his name in various International and National Journals and Conferences. He has three books to his credit and is a lifetime member of various professional bodies, viz. IE (India), AMM, ISTE, MPCA, AICCF, CCAI etc. Apart from academics, he is also an international chess player and a coach. He has represented India in the Correspondence Chess Olympiad. He was also the India Champion of the All India Correspondence Chess Federation.

Oriental University

You have held key positions at education institutes throughout your professional career. What keeps you connected with the Education Sector and how has your experience been so far with the institute?

I began my career as a teacher/professor in 1991, and ever since I have been hooked on the world of education. I had a very brief switch to working in the industry. In the course of over 30 years, I have been associated with various reputed colleges and universities and am presently working with Oriental University. Students taught by me visit me, write to me, and meet me often. It is the most fulfilling experience to watch a small seed grow into a sapling and then into a big tree. My soul and being are fulfilled when I find my students performing par excellence in the world.

Being the VC of Oriental University what is your philosophy of leadership? How would you describe your leadership style?

I believe in leading by example. I guide my team, in any area that needs attention by doing it myself first. That way, my team is encouraged and is able to follow me, and at the same time, I get to know where they might face problems. I have faith in teamwork and delegating power to my juniors.

How do you strategize about the key programs and plans for the marketing and administration of your school being the VC of Oriental University?

I hold regular meetings with my advisors, deans, HODs, and admission personnel to discuss and devise strategies for the marketing and administration of my university. I am open to all suggestions and ideas from parents, faculty members, and students. It helps me strategize holistically and come up with a solution that fits all.

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The education systems in India and other foreign countries are structured very differently. In your experience, what can an inbound student gain from studying here in your institute?

As far as education systems go, we find ourselves globally competent. Any inbound student can gain a good education at a reasonable fee. We provide financial aid in the form of scholarships. There is also immense scope for participating in extracurricular activities and opportunities for students to learn new skills.

How does the curriculum of Oriental University ensure the best practice of industry?

I am well aware of industry trends and movements through frequent interaction and industry connections. My team keeps me abreast of the latest developments and passes on the necessary perception to the students. Our library is well stocked with the latest editions of related books.

Any insights into how Oriental University could be more welcoming to students of different races or economic backgrounds?

We do not discriminate on the basis of differences in race or economic background. Our faculty and students are of mixed backgrounds, and we all work together in complete harmony. Everyone who is able to meet our basic eligibility criteria for admission can come here, earn a degree, and make a life.

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

My main responsibility is to update the university and the curriculum as per the requirements of the corporate world. Every student at my university must be capable, competent, and suitable for whatever profession they may choose. I also need to work towards growing the institute so that we can attract more students.

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

I wish to put Oriental University at the top of the list of universities in M.P. and also in India. To grow and meet the requirements of the changing world is my dream for Oriental University. I believe we should focus all of our efforts on meeting this goal over the next ten years.

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

I would like people to know about Oriental University’s environment. Oriental University has an environment of growth, research, and innovation. We encourage our students in UG and PG courses to take part in research. This will encourage and motivate them to continue in their fields.

What do you see as the greatest strengths of Oriental University?

All of the stakeholders at Oriental University are definitely our biggest strengths. My team of faculty members, HODs, and Deans all work untiringly towards building up our college and educating the students. Without all of them, our college would have a hard time functioning.

What are some of the biggest challenges you see, both for higher education in general and for Oriental University specifically?

With the introduction of short certificate courses to make an individual employable, higher education will take a back seat. These courses will enable students to get jobs quickly as they focus on the technical skills needed for employment. Only those with a genuine thirst for knowledge will enter higher education institutes.

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

My suggestion to the current youth and aspiring students are to stay motivated and focused. Learn how to think SMART and work SMART. Innovation is the need of the hour, so be curious, ask questions, and THINK.