Uttaranchal University, HOD: Mr. Shashank Interview

Mr. Shashank is the Head of the Department and an Assistant Professor at Uttaranchal University. With over seven years of experience, he holds a BPT and an MPT degree in Orthopaedics. Mr. Shashank also has five papers published in one international journal and four national journals.

What is the latest program that you are offering in your institute/dept. which will help students outperform and stand apart from the crowd?

Trends in health science education include a focus on integrative health, health informatics, global health, interdisciplinary studies, public health specialisations, patient-centered care, and data science in healthcare. Institutions aim to equip students with skills aligned with evolving healthcare needs, emphasising technology, global perspectives, and collaborative, patient-centric approaches. For the latest information, it's advised to check the websites of leading universities offering health science programs and directly contact academic advisors for current program details and offerings.

What are the factors that make this program the best for the students to opt?

The program's excellence for students lies in its accreditation, faculty expertise, and industry partnerships, ensuring a high-quality education. We have clinical exposure, research opportunities, and the integration of technology to enhance practical skills and readiness for the evolving healthcare landscape. We also provide strong career support services, alumni success, and diverse learning options that contribute to post-graduation prospects. There is also flexibility in scheduling and robust student support services, along with well-equipped facilities, to create a conducive learning environment. Ultimately, the best program aligns with individual goals, offering a comprehensive education and preparing students for successful and impactful careers in health science.

What are the best practices in the course you’re offering?

Our best course practices include defining clear learning objectives, utilising diverse and engaging content, ensuring accessibility, and maintaining effective communication. We align our assessments with objectives, foster inclusivity, and integrate active learning methods for enhanced student participation. We make thoughtful use of technology, regular evaluation, and adaptability to evolving needs to contribute to a dynamic learning environment. Moreover, we provide student support services, encouraging open communication and collaboration. We try to stay current through professional development, ensuring the course reflects the latest knowledge. These practices collectively enhance student engagement, comprehension, and success in the learning journey.

What are some valuable insights of the program that you are offering at your institute/dept.?

For an effective program, it's crucial to align with industry trends, emphasising practical application and hands-on experience. An interdisciplinary approach fosters adaptability, while a global perspective prepares students for diverse challenges. Integrating technology into the curriculum ensures readiness for the digital landscape. Emphasis on ethical and social responsibility builds well-rounded professionals. Networking opportunities and research involvement enhance practical skills and contribute to professional development. Robust advisory support and continuous program improvement mechanisms ensure students receive relevant and up-to-date education, positioning them for success in their future careers.

How does the program ensure that students are being prepared for the future?

The program ensures future readiness through a dynamic curriculum aligned with industry trends and technology integration. Experiential learning, including internships, cultivates practical skills and problem-solving abilities. An interdisciplinary approach and a global perspective prepare students for diverse challenges. Soft skill development, ethical training, and a focus on social responsibility build well-rounded professionals. Opportunities for professional networking and comprehensive career development services enhance students' job market readiness. Encouraging a continuous learning culture ensures adaptability to evolving technologies. By fostering a holistic educational experience, the program equips students with the skills, mindset, and connections crucial for success in their future careers.

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How did you train yourself/faculty to deliver this program to the students?

Faculty training involves professional development workshops on teaching methodologies, technology integration, and industry trends. Collaboration with industry professionals and peer learning encourages the exchange of best practices. Providing access to resources, continuous feedback, and technology training ensures faculty stay current. Opportunities for professional development, such as attending conferences, support continuous learning. Teaching observations and mentorship programs offer constructive feedback and guidance. Incentives for excellence in teaching and research recognise and reward faculty contributions. These strategies collectively create a dynamic, informed faculty prepared to deliver a high-quality program that aligns with industry standards and meets the evolving needs of students.

How do you tend to build an industry connect with this program?

Our program employs a multifaceted approach. We establish advisory boards with industry professionals, ensuring curriculum alignment with industry needs. Internship and placement programs forge direct links between students and potential employers. Guest lectures, workshops, and industry-linked projects provide real-world insights and practical skills. Professional development seminars, career fairs, and alumni engagement foster networking and recruitment opportunities. Incorporating industry-specific certifications enhances students' marketability. Collaborative research projects and company visits deepen our ties with the business sector. Encouraging professional memberships and seeking industry feedback ensures continuous program improvement, ultimately preparing graduates for successful integration into the workforce.

What were the challenges that you faced while inculcating this program in your curriculum? 

Introducing a new program into the curriculum can pose challenges. Aligning it with existing curricula, securing resources, and providing faculty training are initial hurdles. Building industry connections for internships and placements requires time and effort. Student awareness and marketing efforts are essential for program uptake. Forming an effective advisory board and integrating new technologies present additional challenges. Obtaining accreditation involves navigating regulatory processes. Balancing theory and practice, developing fair assessments, and adapting to changing industry needs are ongoing considerations. Successful implementation demands collaborative efforts, effective communication, and a commitment to addressing challenges as they arise.

What are the types of projects that the students are working on through this program?

Students in health science programs engage in diverse projects. Examples include community health initiatives, clinical research studies, and health technology development. They may conduct epidemiological investigations, analyze healthcare policies, or create educational materials to promote health literacy. Global health projects addressing infectious diseases, environmental health studies, and quality improvement initiatives within clinical settings are common. Our projects often focus on patient-centered care, health equity, and wellness programs, offering practical, real-world applications of theoretical knowledge. The nature of the projects varies based on program specialties, partnerships, and the evolving needs of the healthcare landscape, providing students with a comprehensive and applied learning experience.

What are the benefits and career options after pursuing this course?

Pursuing a health science course offers diverse benefits and career options. Graduates gain versatility, interdisciplinary knowledge, and hands-on experience. With a global perspective and exposure to healthcare technologies, they enter roles such as public health specialists, clinical researchers, health educators, or health informatics specialists. Opportunities also extend to epidemiologists, patient advocates, health policy analysts, clinical managers, and global health consultants. Health and wellness coaching, healthcare consulting, and occupational health specialities provide additional career paths. The field's dynamic nature allows graduates to contribute to various aspects of healthcare, addressing global challenges and promoting community well-being.