Role of Principal/Direcor/VC in Building Institutions to Global Level

Prologue:

When I first joined as a Principal of MITS Engineering College, Rayagada, Odisha I don't know anything about academic administration. When I confessed the same thing to the interviewing board, they assured me "Gopinath, you will learn everything here unlike your previous assignment, where you have to build your own road". I started learning by restructuring, reforming, regulating various institutes starting from scratch to achieving national and global accreditation and achievements. I am indebted to all those managements for giving me the opportunity with abundant trust on my abilities.

I would like to share (from my experience) what is expected from an academic administrator which may be useful for future aspirants!

Role of an Academic Administrator: 

The role of an academic administrator (Principal/Dean/Director/Vice Chancellor) is to provide effective leadership for the Institute/University with focused approach towards development of faculty and staff, teaching-learning material, facilities, developing and managing administrative policies. Involve in strategic planning, developing, administering and management of all UG, PG, Doctoral programs. To implement administrative regulations with exercise of independent judgment and subject to periodic review on the basis of results achieved. Prepare the Institution/University to achieve and maintain National (NBA, NAAC) & International Accreditation (ABET) criteria.

The responsibilities of a Principal/Dean/Director/VC also include

• Administer and lead the faculty and academic resources to ensure that educational excellence is maintained at the best level.

• Promote a proactive teaching philosophy and academic culture & environment to ensure an enriched learning experience for all students and a fulfilling academic career for all faculty members

• Lead academic research and consultancy undertaken by faculty to ensure that the Institute/University achieves a strong reputation in selected academic fields of interest.

• Provide leadership to the College/University Academic Councils (CAC) or Senate and provide information to all the stakeholders.

• Effectively allocate and manage academic resources and promote an environment that directly contributes to faculty and student’s success.

• Collaborate, develop and nurture partnerships with public and private-sector Industries including the other universities (Indian and Foreign)

• Foster the growth of a multicultural community that promotes understanding and collaboration across cultures, nationalities, beliefs and religions.

• Supervise staff for performance review, grievances, and disciplinary actions.

• Motivate the students and staff to ultimately serve the society