Dr. Sushma Jaiswal is the Dean of the GRD Girls Degree College. She holds a B.A., M.A. degree in Geography and B.Ed. degree. Thereafter, she went on to earn a PhD and a PDF in her field. She has years of experience and has worked in numerous reputed colleges and institutes such as BFIT Dehradun, RMSI Pvt. Ltd., Astha Enterprises Survey of India, and Survey of India.

Dr. Jaiswal received the Excellence Acknowledgement Success Through Quality Rewards in August 2011 and the Himalaya ‘Ratan’ Award in March 2019. She has also attended numerous conferences and workshops.

GRD GIRLS DEGREE COLLEGE

How does the curriculum of college ensure the best practice of industry?

Colleges should regularly collaborate with industry professionals, experts, and employers to identify the latest trends and skill requirements. This ensures that the curriculum remains consistent. We also have workshops that enrich the learning experience and expose the students to real-life challenges, success stories, and best practises. We make it a point for teachers to learn advanced study techniques in the industry and emerging areas in the industry.

You have held key positions at education institutes throughout your professional career. What are the key factors that keep you connected with the education sector?

Being a part of the education sector, professionals have a direct impact on shaping the future of young individuals. The opportunity to contribute to student growth and development can be very rewarding. The education sector is dynamic, with new teaching methods, techniques, and research emerging regularly. Professionals in this field often value the opportunity to continuously learn and stay updated on the latest developments in their field. The field of education offers opportunities for intellectual engagement and challenges. Developing curricula, designing effective teaching strategies, and addressing diverse learning needs can all stimulate the intelligence of education professionals.

Being the Dean, what is your philosophy of leadership? How would you describe your leadership style?

I believe in developing a clear and inspiring vision for the institution, developed collaboratively with input from faculty, staff, and students. This shared vision serves as a guiding light for all our efforts, aligning efforts towards common goals. I am committed to creating a broad and diverse academic community where all individuals feel valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. I recognise the strength that diversity brings to an organisation and actively foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding. Transparent and open communication is essential to building trust and maintaining a healthy academic culture. I encourage open dialogue at all levels, ensuring that concerns, ideas, and feedback are heard and considered.

Check GRD Girls Degree College Placement

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

I can help students with various topics, give explanations, provide examples, and help clarify concepts. Students can ask questions and receive informative responses to enhance their understanding of the material. I can help students and faculty conduct research by providing access to a wide range of information, summarising articles, generating ideas, and assisting with literature reviews. I can generate ideas and creative content for projects, presentations, and assignments, stimulating innovative thinking. I can provide guidance on career paths, provide insights into different industries, and share information about the skills and qualifications required for different professions.

What do you think should be the college's top priority over the next 10 years?

The college should focus on providing flexible learning options such as hybrid courses, online learning, and competency-based learning to accommodate the needs and preferences of diverse students. We should work to create inclusive environments, eliminate systemic biases, and ensure equal access to education for all students. Encouraging interdisciplinary studies can help students develop a broad understanding of complex issues and prepare them for careers that require cross-disciplinary collaboration.

What do you see as college's greatest strengths?

Our college offers a wide range of academic programs, courses, and extracurricular activities that cater to a variety of interests and career paths. By helping students discover their strengths and potential career paths, they have the freedom to explore subjects they are passionate about. We employ experienced faculty and experts in various fields, who provide students with valuable insights, guidance and mentorship. Interaction with knowledgeable faculty members enhances the quality of education and promotes critical thinking. We provide access to our students to extensive libraries, research materials, laboratories, and specialized colleges, which encourage students to engage in community service and civic activities, fostering a sense of social responsibility.