Dr. Lakshmi S. K is the Dean of the School of Natural and Applied Sciences of Mount Carmel College. She has her PG and PhD in Statistics from Bangalore University. She started her journey in Mount Carmel College in 1991 as a lecturer in the Department of Statistics and went on to head the department for more than two decades. Dr. Lakshmi has served on various committees in the college and has motivated and encouraged her students to chase and fulfil their dreams. She was responsible for initiating the UGC sponsored vocational degree course in Analytics in college.

Mount Carmel College

In your opinion, what is the most significant challenge that educators face today, and how do you think they can overcome it?

The major challenge faced by most educators today is the growing demands of the industry and students' reliance on fast-changing technology. Educators can overcome this to a large extent by keeping themselves abreast with changing technology and evaluating the students on assignments that require critical thinking. It is also important to help students hone skills in their chosen field of study by involving them in hands-on sessions, individual presentations and group discussions. These in turn will result in a stimulant classroom environment and reduce the academia-industry gap.

What are your thoughts on the National Education Policy (NEP) in India, and what steps are being taken by your institute to implement its objectives in the curriculum?

The National Education Policy 2020 encompasses a comprehensive framework aimed at the reformation and advancement of the education system in India. This initiative advocates the adoption of a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to education, improving the quality and pertinence of education with an emphasis on carrying out research and fostering innovation. It is aimed at guaranteeing education to all, promoting adaptability and autonomy within the educational framework and advocating for the integration of technology in educational settings.

Mount Carmel College, autonomous is actively engaged in the process of incorporating the goals outlined in the National Education Policy. Several measures like curriculum revision, enhancing technology integration in course delivery, and greater emphasis on research and innovation have been implemented in the institution.

Has your institution released any dual degree programs or Distance education programs in accordance with NEP?

One of the notable reforms of NEP is the implementation of dual degree programmes and a greater focus on online education. The execution of these programmes is contingent upon the unique characteristics of each institution and their respective reactions to the NEP. Mount Carmel College currently offers 19 dual-degree programs with the primary objective of encouraging multidisciplinary education. Dual degree and distance learning programs will soon be offered.

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

Mount Carmel College has established a range of initiatives and collaborations with industry leaders to promote industry-specific courses. Such partnerships will benefit the students, faculty, institution and the industry. Many of our programs have Advisory Boards comprising professionals and experts from relevant fields who provide inputs on curriculum development, emerging trends, and current skill requirements of the industry. Our programs, particularly the postgraduate programs, with a mandatory corporate internship component provide opportunities for students to gain real-world experience and build industry connections. Many departments drive certificate courses with industry partnerships, thereby training their students in industry-specific skills. Partnering with industry and research institutes for projects leads to innovative solutions, exposes students to real-world problems and helps them develop the acumen for finding solutions to such problems.

Since a lot of students come from faraway places, what measures has your educational institution implemented to provide safe and efficient transportation facilities for students?

The Institutional Social Responsibility Cell has initiated and arranged for shuttle Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus services between the nearest metro stations and the college to help the students who rely on public transport reach college. Private van facilities are also available from different parts of the city to the college.

How do you ensure that students feel comfortable, safe, and supported during their stay in the hostels? What is your stand on the matter of ragging?

Mount Carmel College hostel provides a hygienic and safe environment for its students; personal attention is given to the students concerning their academics. All the necessary facilities, like internet, 24/7 hot water, and clean and hygienic rooms, are provided for the student inmates. The college has an Anti-Ragging Committee, a supervisory and advisory body that focuses on building and preserving a ragging-free environment on the college campus. Ragging disturbs the mental health and emotional well-being of the students. It may lead to depression, isolation, and irreversible negative feelings. Instances of ragging should be dealt with an iron hand.