Dr. R. Balakrishnan, serves as an Vice Principal, Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science at S.M.S College of Arts and Science. His primary expertise is in Database Management system and secondary in Data Mining and Neural Networks. He has been strongly associated with academics since 1998 and currently holds an experience of 23 years in Teaching and 19 years in Research. He was awarded Ph.D. in Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, in 2016. He has provided guidance to 25 M.Phil Scholars. He also serves as an Academic Expert for the Board of Studies for various institutions in and around Coimbatore. He further serves as a Member of the Question Paper Setting Board for various other Universities and Autonomous Colleges. He has efficiently acted as Convener for National Level Conferences and has brought laurels to his academics.

SMS College of Arts and Science

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?

My enduring connection with the education sector stems from a profound passion for fostering students' growth in knowledge. Witnessing their journey towards a bright career and development into responsible citizens fuels my commitment to shaping the future through education.

What is your philosophy of leadership? How would you describe your leadership style?

I firmly believe that effective leadership begins with service. To lead is to serve, and this philosophy underlies my leadership style. Throughout my career, I have practiced servant leadership, emphasizing collaboration, empathy, and continuous personal and professional development.

What are some plans that you are currently (or will be) designing for students?

We are actively designing a comprehensive array of initiatives for students. These include competitive exam training courses, programs for soft skills development, student development initiatives, and internship training opportunities. These plans aim to equip students with the skills and experiences necessary for success in their chosen fields.

How do you tend to establish a healthy relationship and environment in your college?

Nurturing a positive environment is pivotal. I consistently foster team spirit among faculty and students, encouraging a collaborative and supportive atmosphere. My advice to the team emphasizes avoiding negativity and maintaining a steadfast focus on personal and collective development.

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What do you think should be the College’s top priority over the next ten years?

Over the next decade, our primary focus will encompass placement opportunities, introducing new courses, developing research programs, and implementing community development initiatives. These endeavors align with our commitment to imparting holistic education, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

How does your college prepare students for placements?

Our approach to placement preparation is multifaceted. We provide thorough training in communication skills, problem-solving, content writing, business English, and interview skills development. Our goal is to ensure that students are well-prepared and confident as they enter the competitive professional arena.

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

Yes, we offer a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural events, industrial visits, and internship programs. These experiences are carefully designed to expose students to real-world challenges, fostering a well-rounded skill set beyond the academic realm.

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

Addressing challenges such as the pervasive influence of the internet on the younger generation, diminishing parental care, and communication skill gaps remains crucial. Overcoming these obstacles is essential to continually elevate the quality of education we provide.

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

My vision upon joining the college was to create confident and responsible future citizens of our society. To achieve this vision, we focus on a holistic approach to education that encompasses academics, personal development, and fostering a sense of civic responsibility.

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

Our faculty undergoes regular training through faculty development programs tailored to the evolving needs of the corporate world. This ensures that our professors stay abreast of industry standards, enabling them to effectively train students to navigate the challenges of the corporate environment.

What do you see as the college’s greatest strengths and how can they be enhanced?

The college's strengths, including an eco-friendly campus, a well-equipped laboratory, a knowledge-packed library, qualified professors, and excellent placement opportunities, form the foundation of our educational excellence. To enhance these strengths, we continually invest in infrastructure, faculty development, and strategic industry collaborations.

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

I encourage students to focus on their career development, leveraging all available resources while maintaining a discerning approach. Balancing enjoyment with a dedicated focus on their careers is key to achieving success and building a prosperous future.