Dr. Atul Tripathi is the HOD of Pharmacology at the Ravishankar College of Pharmacy. He has more than 40 research and review articles to his credit, published in national and international journals. He is also the author of international and national books in his area of expertise. Dr. Tripathi has received grants for the conduct of various seminars, and workshops from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board of India and research grants to conduct research work. He has been awarded the Promising Researcher Award by Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, for promising research in the field. He is a trained nominee of the Committee for Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CCSEA), The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, New Delhi, and is a member of various committees of some of the most reputed institutes of the Government of India, such as the Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology and the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research.

Ravishankar College of Pharmacy

Being a Faculty of the Pharmacology Department, what are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

The role of the Head of the Department of Pharmacology in an educational institution is crucial in ensuring the smooth functioning of the department and fostering a conducive learning environment for students. I play a vital role in providing academic leadership. We oversee the development and implementation of the curriculum, ensuring that it meets the required standards and addresses the needs of the students. We are responsible for recruiting, selecting, and mentoring faculty members in the department. We ensure that the faculty members are qualified, experienced, and capable of delivering high-quality education.

We serve as a guide and mentor for students. We provide guidance on academic matters, course selection, and career opportunities in the field of pharmacology. We are responsible for continuously evaluating the effectiveness of the pharmacology program. We analyze student feedback, performance data, and industry trends to identify areas of improvement. We encourage and support research activities among students. We act as a liaison between the department and the pharmaceutical industry and professional bodies. We establish collaborations and partnerships to enhance industry-academia interactions, ensuring that students are exposed to the practical aspects of pharmacology.

How do you tend to establish healthy relations with the students and fellow faculty? 

Establishing healthy relationships with pharmacy students and fellow faculty members is essential for fostering a positive and supportive academic environment. Healthy relationships contribute to effective communication, collaboration, and overall personal and professional growth. I practice active listening when interacting with pharmacy students and fellow faculty members. By giving them our full attention, demonstrate empathy, and show genuine interest in their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. By actively listening, we can build trust, understanding, and mutual respect. I try to be approachable and accessible to pharmacy students and fellow faculty members by an open-door policy. 

I treat pharmacy students and fellow faculty members with respect and professionalism and maintain a courteous and respectful demeanor, regardless of differences in opinions or perspectives. I encourage collaboration and teamwork among pharmacy students and fellow faculty members. I provide constructive feedback to pharmacy students and fellow faculty members in a respectful and constructive manner. I address conflicts and disagreements in a timely and constructive manner. Encourage open dialogue, active listening, and mediation to resolve conflicts amicably.

What are the best practices offered by the department to the students which help them gain necessary skills? 

Currently, The Pharmacy Council of India is regulating the unified syllabus of Pharmacy profession all over India. As a PCI approved and RGPV affiliated college we follow the syllabus as per designed by them. This ensures the curriculum is up-to-date and aligned with industry standards. The college is involved in the tree plantation program on the occasion of faculties birthdays where we plant one plant and the responsibility of that particular faculty to nourish that plant. 

We provide ample opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience through practical training through internships, clinical rotations, and experiential learning. We encourage students to engage in research activities to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. We emphasize the importance of effective communication and counselling skills in pharmacy practice. We prioritise instilling strong ethical values and professionalism in students by teaching them the importance of patient confidentiality, ethical decision-making, and adherence to legal and regulatory standards. 

What are your views upon the placements and higher education about the students from your department or How does your department prepare students for Higher education?

In recent years, our college has witnessed an increasing emphasis on placements and higher education opportunities for our students. For many students, securing a good placement is seen as a crucial stepping stone towards a successful professional career. They perceive placements as an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their academic journey in a practical setting. The prospect of gaining industry exposure, financial stability, and professional growth motivates them to actively participate in placement drives and make the most of the opportunities provided. Another significant viewpoint among our students is the desire to pursue higher education for specialized knowledge and advanced qualifications. They view postgraduate programs, research opportunities, and professional certifications as gateways to expand their intellectual horizons, enhance their career prospects, and delve deeper into their areas of interest. 

While placements and higher education are important, many students also strive to strike a balance between their passions and practical considerations. They seek guidance and support to navigate through career choices, aligning their interests and aptitudes with realistic job prospects and opportunities for growth. As a college, it is imperative for us to recognize and respect the diverse aspirations and career paths our students envision. We must provide comprehensive career guidance and support systems that cater to their individual needs and empower them to make informed decisions. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, adaptability, and holistic development, we can equip our students to thrive in their chosen careers and contribute meaningfully to society.

How do you help your student to cope up with the competition being so high in the outside world? 

As professors, it is our responsibility to prepare our students not only academically but also emotionally and mentally for the highly competitive world they will enter after college. We encourage students to adopt a growth mindset, where they believe in their ability to improve through dedication, hard work, and resilience. While academic excellence is important, we encourage students to focus on holistic development. Help them recognize the value of honing their interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, critical thinking abilities, and creativity. The college guides students in managing their time effectively by teaching them techniques such as creating schedules, setting priorities, and breaking down tasks into manageable chunks.

We promote a collaborative learning environment where students can work together, share ideas, and learn from each other by encouraging them to participate in extracurricular activities, join clubs, and engage in community service to develop their teamwork and networking abilities. Students receive career counseling sessions, workshops, and seminars to guide students in exploring different career paths, understanding industry trends, and developing essential employability skills. Our teachers also teach students coping mechanisms to deal with setbacks and stress. 

Check Ravishankar College of Pharmacy Placement

Do you have any extracurricular activities/ programs to enhance the skills of the students or expose them to the real-world challenges?

As a pharmacy college, it is essential for us to provide students with a comprehensive education that goes beyond theoretical knowledge. To enhance their skills and expose them to the real-world of pharmaceuticals, organizing a range of extracurricular activities and programs can be highly beneficial. We arrange visits to pharmaceutical manufacturing units, research and development centers, and quality control laboratories. These visits offer students the opportunity to witness the practical aspects of pharmaceutical production, gain insights into quality assurance processes, and understand the workflow of various departments. It allows them to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry practices.

We facilitate internships and industrial training programs in collaboration with pharmaceutical companies. Students participate in research competitions and innovation challenges related to pharmaceutical sciences that provide a platform to showcase their research skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. We invite experts from academia, research organizations, and the pharmaceutical industry to deliver guest lectures and conduct workshops. We organize health camps and community outreach programs in collaboration with local healthcare institutions. These activities not only raise awareness about various health issues but also provide opportunities for students to apply their pharmaceutical knowledge in real-life scenarios. 

What are the challenges you faced/ are facing to uplift the quality of education of your department? 

As academicians dedicated to uplifting the quality of pharmacy education in Madhya Pradesh, we face several challenges that require our attention and proactive measures. Promoting strong collaboration between academia and the pharmaceutical industry is essential for keeping pace with the industry's evolving needs. However, the establishment of effective partnerships, internships, and research collaborations remains a challenge. The development of a research and innovation culture is crucial to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial skills among students. However, the lack of research funding, infrastructure, and mentorship opportunities hampers the growth of research activities within the pharmacy education system. 

Compliance with regulatory bodies and accreditation standards can be a complex process. Meeting the requirements of regulatory authorities such as the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) and obtaining accreditation from agencies such as the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) requires significant efforts and resources. To overcome these challenges, we foster partnerships with the pharmaceutical industry through internships, guest lectures, and research collaborations to bridge the gap between academia and industry. We also encourage and support research activities among faculty and students through grants, incentives, and mentorship programs. Develop a research-oriented culture that promotes innovation and problem-solving.

When you came to the college, what was your vision and how are you trying to achieve the same? 

My vision as a pharmacology academician is to provide students with a comprehensive and contemporary education that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities in the field. To achieve this, I continuously review and try to suggest PCI to update the curriculum to incorporate the latest developments, emerging trends, and technological advancements in pharmacology. 

I employ a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, case studies, group discussions, and hands-on laboratory sessions, to engage students actively in the learning process. I foster strong collaborations with pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and healthcare organizations to provide students with opportunities for internships, field visits, and research projects. To contribute to the advancement of pharmacological knowledge, my vision includes promoting a vibrant research culture and nurturing scientific inquiry among students and colleagues.

How does the department/ college/University enhance the skills of the faculty and prepares them according to the industry standards? 

In the dynamic field of pharmacy, it is essential for academicians to continually enhance their skills and stay updated with industry standards. By adopting certain techniques, pharmacy academicians can improve their teaching abilities, research skills, and industry relevance. We engage in continuous professional development activities such as attending workshops, conferences, seminars, and webinars. We establish and maintain strong connections with the pharmaceutical industry by engaging in collaborative research projects, consultancy assignments, and knowledge exchange programs with industry professionals. 

Our teachers undertake research activities aligned with industry demands. Our teachers seek our mentorship and guidance from experienced pharmacy academicians and industry experts who can provide valuable insights, career advice, and support in navigating the challenges of academia and industry. 

What valuable advice would you like to the students for them to have a prosperous career ahead? 

As pharmacy students in Bhopal, you have chosen a field that offers numerous opportunities for a prosperous and fulfilling career. To make the most of your education and set yourself up for success build a solid foundation in pharmaceutical sciences by mastering the core subjects. Seek opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, industrial training, and research projects. Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial in the pharmacy profession. Practice active listening, develop strong verbal and written communication skills, and cultivate empathy and professionalism in your interactions with patients, colleagues, and healthcare professionals.

Build a strong professional network by actively participating in professional organizations, conferences, and industry events. Uphold the highest ethical standards in your practice and adhere to legal and regulatory requirements. Find mentors within the pharmacy community who can provide guidance, share their experiences, and offer advice on navigating your career.