HHumansarebornwithaspecificinnatetalentor artisticability,whichtheyusuallyexpressintheir leisuretime.Although,individualsexpresssuch talentorabilitywhentheyarehappyorupset.Humans sensepleasurewhileperformingorenactingartforms, whichaidsinliftingtheiremotionsandconnectsthemwith theirinnerselves.
Andsincethereignofthemonarchs,thegreatartist usedtoperformforkingsandqueens,sotheycould alsoexperiencethepleasureoftheartsand
couldconnectthemselveswiththeir innerspirits.Eventhetimehas changed;artcontinuestoenrich everyone'sliveswithpeace,happiness, andpleasure.
Havingsaidthat,weallhaveaccessto thesehistoricartworksbutareunaware oftheartistwhocreatedthem.In additiontotheartworkscreatedby architectstherearenumerousotherart formssuchassinging,dancing, literature,writing,philosophy, psychology,sociology,andmany others.Thecombinationofalltheseis knownasliberalarts.
Nevertheless,doyouknowwho inventedthesegenresofart?Inlightof thefactthatnooneisawareofthe creatorsoftheseartisticforms,allof themhaveperformedfortheirselfsatisfaction.However,astimehas changed,allthesecreativeformsare nowbeingstudiedandappreciated globally
platformtodeveloptheirtalentsand abilities,sothattheycanshapetheir futurethroughtheircreativepursuits.
Inourquestfor "The Prestigious Liberal Art Institutes of the Year 2022," wediscoveredrenownedliberal artinstitutionsthatarereshapingand creatingstudents'livesbyimbibingthe essenceoflivingmeaningfullife. The Knowledge Review magazineobtained wordwithvariousliberalartinstitutes andunderstanditsvaluablesexpertise andplethoraofcourses,regardingtheir valuableexpertiseandplethoraof courses.
Findthearticlesoutliningthe importanceofliberalartsahead.
Haveahappyandinsightfulreading!
Inordertoenablethenextgeneration tolearnaboutliberalarts,today's moderncollegesanduniversitiesoffer liberalartseducation.These educationalinstitutionsofferstudentsa Madhu
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Ashoka University's Liberal Arts and Sciences
Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode
Web Address
ashoka.edu.in bits-pilani.ac.in
Ashoka University carries a strong emphasis on foundational knowledge, thorough academic research based on rigorous pedagogy, and handson experience with real-world challenges.
The Birla Institute of Technology & Science, BITS Pilani, is an all-India Institute for higher education. The primary motive of BITS is to 'train young men and women able and eager to create and put into action such ideas, methods, techniques and information'.
Karnavati University
Light and Life Academy
MIT World Peace University
O.P. Jindal Global University
SBRR Mahajana First Grade College
St Andrew's College of Arts, Science and Commerce
iimk.ac.in karnavatiuniversityedu.in llacademyorg jgu.edu.in
IIM Kozhikode offered the first distance learning programme in management in Asia for working executives.
Karnavati University supports its students to succeed at every level to become well-rounded individuals and skilled professionals.
At Light & Life Academy, it is all about passion for image making through photography
liberal-arts.mitwpu.edu.in
MIT-WPU prides itself on offering a holistic education catering to an individual’s educational, physical as well as spiritual well-being. The syllabus reflects the pursuit to balance the requirements of the industry along with advancement in scholarly learning.
O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) is a non-profit, multi-disciplinary and research oriented university founded in 2009.
fgc.mahajana.edu.in
standrewscollege.ac.in siu.edu.in
SBRR Mahajana First Grade College is at an epochal moment in its cherished history, since it was founded in 1982, born as an offspring of Mahajana Education Society (1937).
St. Andrew’s offers various undergraduate and postgraduate regular and self-financing courses in disciplines of Arts, Science and Commerce. It has been accredited with an 'A' grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) and Maharashtra Board.
Symbiosis International (Deemed University) is a multi-disciplinary university offering its students and faculty a vibrant learning ecosystem designed around its multi-cultural and innovative ethos.
USLM is an effort to reinstate the importance of Liberal Arts by giving the youth ample freedom to meander through disciplinary, interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary knowledge and specialise in streams for futuristic career prospects.
"We need leaders not in love with money but in love with justice. Not in love with publicity but in love with humanity."
- Martin Luther King, Jr.Flipthroughthepagesofhistory, andyouwillunderstandavery significantqualitythathas alwaysbeenassociatedwiththe leadersofanygeneration.Settingthe paceofgrowthforeveryonearound them,thequalitiesthatallowthemto standoutandshinearetheprinciples ofhumanity,mannedbyasenseof justice.
Allthesequalitiesthataleaderrequires comefromoratoryskills.Though manymightbelievethatgroomingthe leadersinsuchanenvironmentis necessary,itisalsoessentialtoread betweenthepagesthatmaketheleader adealerinhope.
Havingsaidthat,mostinfluential peopleacrosstheworldandespecially inIndia,enduptakingthehalf-known routeintheireducationaljourneyto climbtheladdertoinfluencinglarge demography.
Recognisingthisdevelopment, The Knowledge Review magazinewenton anadventuretofindsomeofthebest institutesinthecountrythatgroomthe studentpoolinaholisticway Sculptingthegenerationintofuture leaders.
Aftercarefullycuratingandconnecting thedotsthatwouldprovideallthe necessaryskillstothestudents,we recognisedthatLiberalArtseducation istheidealpathtoachievewhatis aimed.
So,onourquesttofind—TheMost PrestigiousLiberalArtsInstitutesof theYear,2022—wecameacrossthe AssociateDeanandProfessor,Dr SonamMansukhaniofUnitedworld SchoolofLiberalArtsandMass Communication,Karnavati University,whosharedhowtheschool hasmadeamarkforenhancementin theeducationofLiberalArtsand groomingthestudentsinatraditional yetmodernwaytobecometheleaders oftheworld.
TheGenesisStoryofanIncredible Institute!
Theworldismovingatapacethat humankindhasneverwitnessedbefore. Whilethepopularperceptionofthe commonpeoplehidesthesignificance ofArts,especiallyLiberalArts,inthe background,theintroductionofNEP 2020,hasrestoredtherespectand competitionforliberalartseducation.
Explaininghowthegapcreatedbefore theintroductionofNEP2020resulted inthefoundingprinciplesof UnitedworldSchoolofLiberalArts andMassCommunication,DrSonam Mansukhaisays, "The Unitedworld School of Liberal Arts and Mass
Communication (USLM), Karnavati University, Ahmedabad is an endeavour to foster the ethos of liberal arts in the youth. Our country has always been embedded in the liberal philosophy of Nalanda and Takshashila. With market forces taking over, 'careers' gained importance and liberal faded away."
"USLM is an effort to reinstate this by giving the youth ample freedom to meander through disciplinary, interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary knowledge and specialize in streams for futuristic career prospects," she added.
KarnavatiUniversityislocatedin Gandhinagar,Gujarat,India,offering undergraduateandgraduatedegreesfor domesticandinternationalstudents. Theuniversityisadynamicand growinguniversitydefinedbyitsclose connectionstotheprofessional communityanditscommitmentto outstandingstudenteducation.
Highlightingthejourneyofthe university,DrSonamMansukhani says, "We create the most innovative, dynamic, and creative yet practical learning environment for students. As a part of KU, USLM started off as USLA, only with Liberal Arts in 2017, with 17 students. Over a period of time, we have evolved diversity in the curriculum covering areas of Commerce along with courses in Humanities and Social Sciences, Technology and an advanced diploma th in the 4 year. Presently, we are working towards incorporating elements from NEP 2020 into revamping our programs."
We create the most innovative, dynamic and creative yet practical learning environment for students.
“My advice to the youth is that they are the future. The rawness can be moulded in a manner to bring out the best in them. They need to push their boundaries and be prepared to challenge themselves and debunk stereotypes, biases, and prejudices. Freedom of expression should be encouraged. However, not at the cost of the systems that surround us. Go beyond the expected, develop the art of questioning, and understand that there are systems and subsystems that we are a part of and that cannot be overlooked. However, you can be transformers through forging connections with each other and with a multiplicity of ideas. As liberal arts emphasises 'challenging what is stated/what is given, one needs to challenge oneself before challenging what is externally established."
Dr Sonam Mansukhani Associate Dean and Professor, USLM Karnavati University
The Prestigious Liberal Arts Institutes of the Year 2022
DrSonamMansukhanijoinedUSLM recentlyinJune2022asAssociate DeanandProfessor;shebringsavast experienceof20yearswithher.Being bornaleaderwithapassionfor teachingstudents,shehaslaiddowna
Explainingtheintricaciesofthe institution,DrSonamMansukhani highlights, "While we have already commenced our journey towards evolving sound content-related and
pedagogical practices, the future holds immense possibilities in giving shape and direction to the same. As we have faculty from diverse areas, channelling their skills, knowledge, and research, and integrating this with the existing structures will help USLM gain momentum and make a mark nationally and globally."
roadmapfortheholisticdevelopment ofstudents.
Despitebeingoneoftheoldestfields ofstudiesandrespectedprofessionsin theworld,thefieldofliberalartswas side-linedbythepopularperception aboutfieldsrelatedtocommerceand science.However,withthe introductionoftheNEP2020,there
hasbeenarevivalinliberalarts education,openingaplethoraof opportunitiesinthefield.
Elaboratingontherationalebehind this,DrSonamMansukhanisays, "Let me elaborate with reference to the futuristic pathways in terms of higher education, employment, and entrepreneurship. Today, the youth are all set to move out and push their boundaries by exploring the 'unexplored' territories. Earlier, one followed the policy of segregation or compartmentalisation. For example, in psychology, one pursued counselling, clinical, and child psychology. Today, the youth may pursue a program in a multidisciplinary area like dance and movement therapy. Moreover, the blend of knowledge, skills, and experience that liberal arts student acquires makes them well equipped to comprehend complex issues. This enables one to
come up with policies that go beyond linear thinking."
"Also, the employment scenario reveals that organisations are desirous of recruiting candidates who transcend technical proficiency and are adept in articulation, critical thinking and so on. Entrepreneurship, too, involves similar skills. The challenges include the 'specialisation' mindset that colours the populace. For the people who wish to take up specialisations and employment in specific fields, the idea of multidisciplinary inquiry acts as an obstacle and, perhaps, leads them into a state of confusion. This has to sink in. I also have a concern which can be translated into a challenge –with the clamour for liberal arts, how many institutions have been able to absorb the ethos in the true sense of the term?" sheasks,explainingthe entirescenariooftherevivalofthe fieldofLiberalArts.
DuringthegenesisoftheUSLM, qualityeducationwasput-forthasthe commonpointofcurationofa curriculum.Afteradetailedstudyof thefield,USLMhascuratedanideal curriculumwithablendofknowledge, skillsandexperience.
Emphasisingontheholisticcurriculum curatedbytheInstituteandwhatit offerstoitsstudents,DrSonam Mansukhanisays, "The curriculum offers opportunities to blend theory and practice and develop 4 Cs- critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communication- skills that are vital to thriving in the 21st century. We also endeavour towards establishing collaborations with professional bodies (nationally and globally) to give students different kinds of exposure."
The curriculum offers opportunities to blend theory and practice and develop 4 Cscritical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communicationskills that are vital to thrive in the st21 -century.
Ÿ To build individual as well as collective competencies in education and innovation.
Ÿ To adopt a multidisciplinary approach through media and emerging technologies, building humane professionals.
Ÿ To diversify and focus on exploration of behaviour and mind leading to an in-depth understanding of various psychological perspectives.
Ÿ To endow and empower the students with theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills to take on committed roles and responsibilities.
Ÿ To prepare future professionals to develop global skill competencies.
"Our experiential component is enveloped in striking a connection with our cultural roots and sensitivity to the communities around. Our pedagogy is grounded in the VARK (visual, auditory, reading/writing, kinesthetic) learning styles approach, wherein the classroom activities cater to the needs and requirements of students with the above learning styles. Lastly, we give them opportunities to assume leadership roles with hands-on experiences that involve teamwork, decision making, and conflict resolution," shefurtheradds.
WhenaskedabouthowtheInstituteis keepingitselfupdatedwiththelatest advancementsinthefieldofeducation withtheintroductionofEd-tech,Dr SonamMansukhanisays, "We encourage students to use the latest software and technology for content creation. The courses taught at USLM incorporate the latest technological developments. For example, we have a course on cyberpsychology that delves into the psychological factors associated with technology use (e.g.,
social networking sites such as Instagram). Lastly, we also encourage students to participate in relevant virtual labs."
Todrawanexpectedlearningoutcome arcforthestudents,theInstituteaims togroomstudentstobecomelifelong learners.ThefieldofLiberalArts hingesonmultidisciplinarylearning, andtheinstitutesinstillthequalities likecuriosityandopennessinlearning.
Sketchingthelearningarcofstudents throughwelldraftedandcurated curriculum,DrSonamMansukhani explains, "There are other factors as well for consideration such as critical thinking, learning agility, responding to situations and different learning tasks and a quest for 'digging deep' into different areas of knowledge. The need of the hour is the quest for probing and the ability to dissect and
Ÿ Accommodating diverse perspectives.
articulate problems/issues and come up with interventions. This implies learning that transcends classroom interaction. With well-designed admission tests, one can gauge these qualities."
AsaprominentinstituteofLiberal Arts,theInstitutehasaddedmany laurelstoitsnamesinceitsinception. Despitethat,theInstituteconsidersthe successofstudentsdefinesthesuccess storyoftheInstitute.Highlighting someofthestudents'recent achievements,DrSonamMansukhani says, "Our students excel academically and in other areas such as sports. Our Advanced Diploma (Psychology- Batch
Ÿ
2018) student, Neerja Vaishnav, has made USLM and Karnavati University immensely proud of her achievement. She bagged the bronze medal in the State level powerlifting championship. She had also bagged the gold in powerlifting at the district level. Another student Tanishq Agarwal (Batch 2021), participated in the recently held 'Enigma and Kridaangan' Tennis tournament at Nirma University, Ahmedabad and walked away with the singles title! We
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ Respect and sensitivity towards the cultural ethos and identity.
Ÿ Responsibility towards the different systems that we are a part of – nations, regions and the global environment.
To develop a strong base embedded in multidisciplinary learning.
To inculcate a keen spirit of inquiry among students.
To reinforce an understanding of the cultural heritage of our country.
To foster global citizenship and sustainable linkages with the society.
are proud of the fact that our students are well grounded in every aspect of academic life."
EnvisioningthefutureoftheInstitute, DrSonamMansukhaniasserts, "I look forward to establishing a connection with different professional organizations and strategizing towards ensuring visibility on the national and the global map. This would entail
strengthening the curriculum and working towards achieving the desired and expected outcomes. I also look forward to entrenching an inter and multidisciplinary research culture for students and faculty. Developing a strong entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial drive is something that our school will work towards. We will be endeavouring towards achieving excellence in global rankings in the near future."
We create the most innovative, dynamic and creative yet practical learning environment for students.
Mostpeoplegenerally
percieveandhave misinterpretedimageof LiberalArtsintheirmind.Therealfact oftheliberalartsisfardifferentand thisfieldholdsabrightfutureaswell. Itempowersthestudentswiththebasic skillswhichcouldbeusedlifelong. LiberalArtsstudentsholdbetter confidenceastheyhavemoretooffer thanothers.
LiberalArtsEducationissteadily becomingagame-changerinthis rapidlyevolvingworldofmodern
technologies,equippingstudentswitha collaborativeworking,critical approach,out-of-the-boxthinking, developingoriginalideas,and problem-solvingabilities.
Theinterestingaspectoftheliberalarts educationisthatitcoversseveral subjectsofstudysuchassocial sciences,philosophy,literature, sciences,andmathematicswhichoffers thestudentsawiderperspectiveofthe fieldtheyselect,developingapositive mindsetandaninterestingglobal perspective,makingthemvaluable assetstoanyorganization.
Theapplicationsandutilityof educationhaschangedcompletely
Gonearethedayswhenyoungpeople graduatedandworkedinasingle companytilltheirretirement.The liberalartseducationequipsthemwith broaderfoundationalknowledgebased onwhichtheycandeveloptheirskills. Justasamanagementdegreedoesnot limitthemtothatparticularfield.We findlotsofpeoplearounduswhoare engineerswithMBAsandworkingat variousprofessionallevelsinthe industry.
Thestudentsintheliberalartsare taughthowtothinkcritically, analyticallyandcreatively.Developing aresearch-basedapproach,theylearn nottotakethingsatitsfacevaluebut verifyitwiththefiveWsandoneH approach(questioningfromwho, when,why,which,whereandhow)of whateverispresentedtothem.Their smartandinquisitiveapproachmakes themchallengepre-conceivednotions insteadofacceptingeverythingasit comes.
Thestudentsoftheliberalartsare
activeandfullofenergyasthey acquirehighlysought-afterskillsthat areneededineveryindustry Apart frombeingeffectivecommunicators, theypossessimpressivewriting, presentation,andgeneralknowledge skills.Theyaregoodreadersandactive listenersaswell.
Thedomainoftheliberalartsoffers widescopeinchoosingtoworkin numerousfieldsofhealthcare, management,sales,marketing, advertising,communication,printing andpublishing,HR,travelandtourism, hospitality,IT,etc.Thesestudentshave beeneffectivemanagers,trainers, teachers,projectleadersandbusiness analysts.
Liberalartspreparethelearnerswitha varietyofsubjectsthanfocusingon somespecializedsubject.Apartfrom learningabouttheirsocial responsibilities,theyareadaptat developingcreativewaystosolve severalsocialandcivicchallenges. Theselearnershavebeenpassionate innovatorsatvariouslevelsinthe technologicalfield.Theyunderstand theprocessflowandinitiateinnovative ideastospeeduptheprocessand enhancetheefficacyoftheelements. Theytakecontroloftheoperationsand getthingsdonewithownershipand responsibility.
Thestudentsgetwellacquaintedwith thelearningprocessasthefieldof liberalartseducationteachesthemto processinformationandthink analytically.Servingasacruciallife skill,liberalartssteadilydevelopthe abilitytothinkacrossdisciplines.In thefast-pacedmodernworldwhere newerversionsareintroducedrapidly, thesegemsofliberalartsaresmartin learningthenuancesofthelatesttrends
andcommunicatingthesame effectively.Liberalartslearnersare introducedtonewapproachesof uniqueexperiences,concepts,new ideas.Itincludeseverythingfrom community-basedlearningtopeerreviewedresearch,whichenablesthe learnersanopportunitytoexploreand experimentwithvariousnewways.
Modernorganizationslookforagile andadaptableteammemberswhohave apositiveandopenperspectivetoward theworkandtheorganization. Acquiringknowledgeregularly empowerslearnerstodevelopwellroundedskillsandenhancestheir thinkingability.Liberalartseducation strengthenslearnerswiththeabilityto understandandbroadentheirhorizons intermsofhowtheyviewtheworld aroundthem.
Humans,asacollective society,havetransitioned fromtheagrariansocietyto thewide,astonishingurbanscapewe alllivearound.Havingsuchan excitingjourney,weoptedforandare stilloptingfornobleprofessionslike engineering,lifesciences,business management,andtechnology.Inthe midstoftakinghumanityforward,the integrationofoursurroundingsalong withvariousdisciplines-gaveriseto artenthusiastspursuingLiberalArts.
Beingauniquekindofdisciplinethat facilitatesanopportunitytoconnect science,thesurroundingandtheliving ecosystem,wehavefoundabridgethat verywellconnectstohappylivingwith thezealofartifyingthesurrounding ecosystem.
Asknownglobally,artconnects humanswiththeirlife.Thisleadsto adherencetotheinnatepotentialofan individualandbringsjoyandpeace whileaddingasenseoffreedomtolife. Moreover,itignitesthelightinhumans tolearn,expressandunderstand themselvesprecisely.Mayitbetheir immensehappiness,liveliness, sorrows,etc.,oftheirlife.
Thiscanalsobeunderstoodthrough theexcerptsofRabindranathTagore:
Followingthefootstepsof RabindranathTagoreand acknowledgingtheneedforartin today'stimeandage,LiberalArtsis notonlyredefiningartbutalso humanityinthesenseofskills,and arts,definingthemediumtoexpress themselves.Whenitcomestolearning art,LiberalArtsprimarilyaimsto liberatepeoplesothattheycan performfullestoftheirpotential.
However,sevenseculareducational subjectsfromLiberalArtswere codifiedinlateRomanantiquityinthe middle-agesandrenaissance.The subjectswere Trivium- Grammar, Logic and Rhetoric- and the Quadrivium- Geometry, Arithmetic, Astronomy and Music.
But,withtechnologicaladvancements, thesubjectsaremodifiedbasedonindemandsoftskillslikecriticalthinking andmanymoreskills.Moreover,the institutesofLiberalArtsareflourishing intheIndianeducationspace.
CateringtotheneedforLiberalArts education,MITWorldPeace Universityprovidesafour-year
graduateprograminLiberalArtsinits SchoolofLiberalArts,Dr VishwanathKaradMITWPU,Pune.
Itconstantlystrivestodevelopthe structureandprovideinterdisciplinary andmultidisciplinaryapproachesfor theholisticdevelopmentofstudents.
WhileventuringforThePrestigious LiberalArtsInstitutesoftheYear, wecrossedMITWPUandinteracted withtheHeadoftheSchool,Dr PreetiJoshi.Duringourconversation aboutMITWPU,sheenlightenedus withtheinceptionstoryoftheinstitute, andherjourneyinMITWPU,also highlightedtheinstitute'svision, missionandfutureendeavours.
"That side of our existence whose direction is towards the infinite seeks not wealth, but freedom and joy."
- RabindranathTagore
Liberal Arts
offers one of the best careers with a lot of prosperity and success in life.
After knowing the gist of the School, dive down for more in-depth information about the institute and the pedagogical enhancements.
TheMITWPUSchoolofLiberalArts wasestablishedin2017,andwithina shorttime,theinstituteachieveda placeamongstthetopcolleges.
Sinceitsinception,ithasachieved successanddevelopedconstantly The schoolprovidesvariousdiverse programssuchasBALiberalArts,BA (Hons)English/Political Science/Psychologyandhasstartedthe postgraduateprogramsandPhD. Centre.
nd
Theschoolreceived2 rankinthe st Puneregionand91 atthenational
levelinIndiaTodayRanking,2021-22, rd and2020.Itwasalsorankedthe3 BestSchoolinPuneinIndiaToday Ranking,2020.Whereas,inthewest th zone,itwasranked12 forArts DisciplineinTheWeek,2021,andat th theIndialevel,itwasplaced49 for ArtsDisciplineinTheWeek,2021.
Apartfromrecognitionand achievements,theschoolprovides four-yeargraduationprogramswith multipleexitoptionstostudents,where theycanchoosetheirmajorsfroma basketofsubjects-Arts,Humanities andSocialSciences,PerformingArts, AppliedArts,Management,Law, MediaStudiesandPsychology.The educationinLiberalArtsfocuses explicitlyonholisticdevelopment throughaninterdisciplinaryand multidisciplinaryapproach.
MITWPUconstantlystrivestodevelop theprogramstructureconsideringthe importanceoftheinterdisciplinary approach.Theschoolhasaddedunique courseswhicharemultidisciplinary, emphasizingthepracticalapproach. Studentsgainpracticalknowledgevia application-basedassessments, exposuretotheindustryandthelatest industrytrends.
Thediversecourses,suchas Graphology,DiscoveringSelf,Music Therapy,etc.,areprovidedforthe holisticdevelopmentofthestudents. Theinternshiphasbeenamandatory componenttoensurethestudents' overalldevelopment.
MITWPUSchoolofLiberalArtsis workingonintroducingIndicStudies, PhilosophyandConsciousnessStudies toofferevenmoreopportunitiestothe
students.Theschoolhasalso developedcertificatecoursesinthe fieldofPsychology,lookingtothe trendtowardsPsychology
DrPreetiJoshiistheheadofthe MITWPUSchoolofLiberalArts.She has15yearsofteachingexperience andeightyearsofresearchexperience. Beinginsuchanobleprofession,she haspresentedaresearchpapertitled, 'Language Jugglery: Globality, Locality, and Hybridity' atan interdisciplinaryInternational Conferenceorganizedbythe InternationalJournalofArtsand
Sciencesinassociationwiththe UniversityofLondon,UK.
DrPreeticompletedherPhD,M.Phil., andMA(English),B.Ed.fromtoprankeduniversities.Sheistherecipient ofthePrestigiousFURFellowshipfor HisHolinessDalaiLamaStudies.She isalsoalifetimememberofCCIS (CentreforContemporaryIndian Studies),UniversityofColombo.
Beingaprominentandenthusiastic learner,shereceivedanawardfor 'The best Student Research Paper Award and Session's Best Presentation Award'.ShealsopublishedanEnglish
Liberal Arts constructs leaders who can create, collaborate, inspire, and innovate.
referencebook, 'Lingua Shrunka of Modern Communication,' inJanuary 2017.
SheisarecognizedPhDguideand ChairpersonfortheBoardofStudies fortheSchoolofLiberalArts, MITWPU.Underherguidance,the schoolprimarilyfocusesondeveloping thestudent'sresearch,innovation, designthinkingandentrepreneurship skills.However,innovativeassessment patternsareintroducedtoensurethe students'learningapplicability.Also,it emphasizedinternationalexposure throughMOUswithacademiaand industry
Whiletalkingaboutthestoryof MITWPUSchoolofLiberalArts,Dr Preetihighlightsthevisionandsays, st "Developing 21 -century Liberal Arts Leaders based on social sensitivity and ethical approach to empower society globally."
Later,sheslidesdownandhighlights themissionstatement,andsays,
Ÿ "Creating multi-perspective and multi-skilled leaders.
Ÿ Integrating Science, Technology, Spirituality, Arts and Skills for creativity and innovation.
Ÿ To facilitate the development of holistic and interdisciplinary perspective for addressing social issues."
AndwhilestatingtheSchool'score values,shesays, "Peace module, Mentor-mentee sessions, Industrial visits, Rural immersion, National immersion, International immersion."
Theschoolisfullyequippedwith
psychologylabsandthelatest apparatus,conductingvarious industrialvisitsandmandatory internshipsnationallyor internationally.Theschoolfocuseson astudent-centricapproachby providingfundsforresearchand
organizingrural,nationaland internationalimmersions,motivating innovation,leadership,creativedesign, strategicsocialmanagement,etc.The universityalsohasanincubationcentre whichprovidesallkindsofsupportto buddingentrepreneurs.
Dr Pree Joshi Head of SchoolInIndia,theLiberalArtsconceptis stilluncommon,anditisthebiggest challengetoconvincepeopleand connecttothevariousspecializations providedunderLiberalArts.Asthe termsuggests,thestudentsshouldhave aliberalapproachandcantakeup coursesinPsychology,LawandMusic fields.MITWPUSchoolofLiberal Artsprovidesvariouscoursesto studentsthathelpthemtodeveloptheir personalitiesholistically.
LiberalArtshappenstobeanewfield asfarasIndiaisconcerned.Many peopleareunawareoftheenormous scopeforthegraduateswhooptfor LiberalArts.Thereisnosingle professionwhereLiberalArts graduateswillnotaccommodate.At thesametime,LiberalArtsgraduates arerequiredinalloccupations.
Understandingthese intricaciesofthefield,the schoolprovidesmorescope tostudentsastheyget knowledgeofvarious coursesoftheirinterest, whichhelpsthemmove aheadintheareaoftheir choice.Andchangingthe mindsetofpeoplefrom commonengineering, medicine,pharmacy,andinformation technologytoLiberalArtsisabig challenge.
ThegraduatesinLiberalArtsbecome freethinkers,opencommunicators, adaptivetocircumstances, accommodativeinnature,and knowledgeableandrespectfulpersons. Creativeandcriticalthinkingisa mandatorysubjectinLiberalArts.It transformsthestudentsandtheir mindsetintoindividualswhodevote servicestosocialworkandthe developmentofsociety.
LiberalArtsoffersoneofthebest careerswithalotofprosperityand successinlife.Itprovidestheplatform forcreatingchangeandoutperforming others.
TheschoolofLiberalArts,MITWPU, ismarchingtowardsgreaterheights andwillbeauniqueinstituteina coupleofyears.LiberalArtsisa multidisciplinaryeducationthat includesablendofcoursesfrom differentdisciplinessuchasArtsand Humanities,SocialSciences, Commerce,Management,Engineering, Law,Technology,andmanyothers. LiberalArtshelpinpreparing individualsforfutureuncertainties.
LiberalArts,isthenewchangeinthe IndianEducationSystem,andpeople nowunderstanditsimportance.
Sketchingdownmorefuturestrategies oftheinstitute,DrPreetipostulates, "Liberal Arts constructs leaders who can create, collaborate, inspire, and innovate. As graduates of Liberal Arts, one has proficiency in the primary courses they choose and get interdisciplinary knowledge. The various courses offered to students have been provided with minor concentrations. The MITWPU School of Liberal Arts is all prepared to leave no stone unturned towards its journey of success."
College - the place of a beautiful transition from the realm of schooling to the stepping stone into the future; also known to be the hub of knowledge, it spectacles life skills and is an eye opener toward the real world. The person who is indeed responsible for enhancing thedreamsofbuddingyoungstersandmakingthemareality isthePrincipal.Thepaceatwhichtheworldisexpandingits horizons obviously has made an impact on the routine roles andresponsibilitiesofacollegeprincipal.
Apart from the routine of a teacher, the regular roles of a college principal revolve around general administration, organization, and supervision duties; additionally include guidance and counseling of students and staff. In a nutshell, the role of a principal is a compass that points toward the enhancementordevelopmentoftheinstitute,alsofencingin the upliftment of the college's morale. A college based in Medicine,Nursing,Dentistry,andAlliedHealthSciencesisin multiplewaysdifferentfromthatofothers.Amedicine-based environment is not just about igniting the light of selfdevelopment in a student; it is about bringing in an actual changeinthecommunitybymeansofmoldinganindividual whoisself-aware,perceptivetotheneedsofsociety,instilled with the sense of empathy and keen to be on the road with rapidadvancementsoftheindustry
The current world is getting into headway with novel technologiesandunimaginablediscoveries.Frominnovative cellular regenerative techniques to Artificial Intelligence (Internet of things, Blockchain technology,
Neurotechnology), the world of medicine has expanded exponentially Giventhescenarioofafast-changingworld,it becomestheunswornresponsibilityofaprincipaltoshiftthe paradigm of traditional educational methods and bring in moreingeniousstrategiestokeepthestudents,aswellasthe teachingfacultymotivatedandinspiredtogoforthegreatest glories and create a mark in the strengthening of society by makingasignificantcontributiontothehealthcaresector.
Inmyview,aPrincipalisnotjusttheillustriousoracclaimed captain of the ship but a leader who creates the path toward progress.The students of today are evidently more creative, smart, and well-informed about the latest discoveries and inventions; they should be encouraged to participate in conferencesandacademicconclaves.
Furthermore, involvement in research activities should be encouragedasmuchaspossible.Buildinganorganizationallevel innovation council and trying to bridge ideas and thoughts into reality will enable young minds to foster their innertalents.Thefocusshouldnotjustbelimitedtoacademic and scientific upgradations, but a Principal should take into account the healthy development of an individual. This includes giving the students the space to work on their soft skills. These can be instilled in by persuading them to do presentations,creatingagroupdiscussionhourforimprovement of communication skills and also to learn about team bonding, and interpersonal skills in real life, forming an onlineblogorinternalmagazinetoboosttheessentialwriting skills.
Dr C Ananda Vayaravel is an alumnus of JIPMER, Puducherry, possessing a Doctoral degree in Biochemistry. He is passionate about teaching the students of Health Care (Medical, Dental, Nursing, Pharmacy and other Allied Health Sciences) and has been enlightening them with his innova ve teaching for the past 22 years. He possesses 39 Publica ons to his credit. Top 10 Principal of the year, Best Academician, Best Researcher, Best Writer, Cer ficate of Leadership, the most admired Educa on influencers in India, Award of Excellence and the Best Administrator Award are his accolades. He is well appreciated for empowering the students na onally, being honored with the ‘Cer ficate of Empowerment’ from Young mind Publishers, Pvt. Ltd. He is inclined towards Medical educa on and Inter-disciplinary research.
Currently he is the Principal of Sri Venkateshwaraa College of Paramedical Sciences, (SVCPMS) Puducherry, an unit of Sri Venkateshwaraa Group of Ins tu ons which also offers courses in Medicine, Den stry, Nursing, Pharmacy and Engineering Science.
Additionally,studentscanbeaskedtotakeuponlineoroffline coursesfromawidearrayofopportunitiesthatwillopenthem up to newer learning experiences based on their topics of interest. A principal should therefore play the role of a dignifiedmentorandinoculateconfidenceanddetermination intheyoungmindsofstudents.
Apartfrombeinganeducatorandadministrator,onehastobe an entrepreneur and a leader to cope with this fast-changing
world. Though the internet world is loaded with facts, the current generation of students or the faculty needs a friend, philosopher, and guide who can lead them toward their success. So, the current generation's Principal must keep himselfupdatednotonlyinhisfieldbutalsowiththedifferent growing educational technologies related to his field, which will also enable him to give good carrier advice to the students.
Socialmediaeasilydiverttheyoungergenerations;somestill gofurthertoviolenceandareaddictedtodrugs.Itisdifficult fortheparentstoretrievethemback,andmanydependonthe faculty or the principal to take care of the situation. This delicateconditionhastobehandledcarefullyasitisadoubleedged sword. Most of the time, the Principal alone cannot handle himself, and he has to give counseling through a psychiatrist.
The role of a principal does not just cease with the managementofstudents.Italsoundeniablyentailsmanaging the teaching and administrative faculty of the organization. Notmostofthetime,theywillbeuptohisexpectations.
During these times, one has to be patient and give some opportunitiesforthemtodevelop.Thereshouldalwaysbea thinthreadbetweenhimandhissubordinates.Onehastobea
buffer between the management and his staff, paving a pathway for a lifelong smooth relationship. Not every time will there be enough time for the principal to have access to the students. Here comes the vital role of the faculty, who shouldactasabridgebetweenthestudentsandtheprincipal.
Along with the fast-changing world, a principal has to work with the management's fast-changing motto, especially if it is a private organization, as they give more emphasis on the outcome. "If your mind doesn't know, your eyes can't see." Onehastounderstandthevisionandmissionofhisorganizationandthenplanhis'NutsandBolts'towardsitsprogression.
In a nutshell, a Principal has to be multitalented (Teacher, MentorandAdministrator)andkeephimselfupdatedwiththe changesintheeducationpolicieshappeningacross,aschange isinevitable.
JAIHIND"The students don't care how much you know till they know howmuchyoucare."
Doyouagreethatthereismuch
moretolearnthansimply studyingandhoningyour skillsinonearea?Doyoualsodesire togainknowledgeinandexperience manyacademicdisciplinesbefore choosingamajor?Then,youmight wanttolearnalittlebitmoreabout liberalartsifyou'reseekingadegree thatwillenableyoutoworkinarange ofprofessions.
Thechancesofsucceedinginthe professioninwhichpeoplearemost interestedcanbeenhancedthroughthe knowledgeandskillstheymayobtain throughstudyingliberalarts.
Liberalartseducationisan encompassingmethodofeducation.It providesacomprehensiveintellectual foundationandspansseveralacademic fields.Studentsacquireliberalart abilitiesequallyascrucialtoachieve successintheircareersandobtainthe knowledgeinvariedsubjects.
Liberalartshaveabroaderspectrum thanspecializedtraining,whichmay notalwaysprovidethesamerangeand exposure.Theterm 'liberal arts' today referstoawiderangeofacademic fields,whichcomprisesseveralfactors:
Ÿ Humanities:Itincludes music, theatre,speech,classicallanguages, philosophy,linguistics,religion, ethics,andmodernforeign languages.
Ÿ SocialSciences:Thissubject includesgenderstudies, anthropology,economics, geography,sociology,law, psychology,andbusiness informatics.
Ÿ NaturalSciences:Itincludes physics,chemistry,biology, geography,earthsciences, astronomy,archaeology,zoology, etc.
Computerscience,music,visualarts, performingarts,publicaffairs,gender studies,mathematics,environmental studies,andotherfieldsofstudyalso fallundernaturalsciences.
Theindustrialmarketisevolving quickly,andtheskillsthatwillbemost indemandshortlywillbeclosely relatedtohumanitiesandthearts.In thefutureofwork,therewillbea massivedemandforabilitieslike criticalthinking,problem-solving, networking,andmanymore.
Hereareafewoftheprimereasonsfor pursuinganartsdegree:
TheDiverseandInterdisciplinary LearningApproach
Thestudyofliberalartsisconnected withmanyotherdisciplines.Students areexposedtoadiverserangeof topics,whichpreparesthemtodevelop abroaderperspectiveinwhatever careerpaththeyselect.Andemployers mayappreciatestudentswiththese skillsmorehighly.Studyinincredibly fascinatingareas.
Studentsenrolledinaliberalarts undergraduatecoursewillhavethe opportunitytolearnaboutavarietyof fascinatingtopics,includingthe developmentofsocieties,themindand behavior,thefoundationsofthenatural sciences,philosophy,logic,legal studies,rhetoric,creativewriting, environmentalstudies,andothertopics thatwillhelpthemdevelopthegood outlookontheworld.
Becauseofliberalartseducation, studentswillhavethefreedomto pursuetheirinterestedfieldsinwhich theyfeelcomfortable.Inadditionto minors,studentscanchooseone,two, oreventhreemajorstopursuetheir specializations.Theopportunitiesfor interdisciplinarymajorsandminorsare alsoavailableforstudents.
GraduatesintheArtshavea PlethoraofOpportunities
Studentsinliberalartsprogramsare exposedtovariousfieldsthanksto theircutting-edgethemesand comprehensiveprogramcurricula. Numerouscareerprospectsare availableforstudents,includingthose inmarketingandadvertising,human resources,informationtechnology,and healthcare.Graduatesofliberalarts programsalsoexcelasadministrators, designers,instructors,andbusiness
entrepreneurs.Liberalartshavea broadscopeandwillcontinuetodoso inthecomingyears.
Studentsmajoringinliberalarts developskillshighlydemandedafter andrequiredbythebusiness,including goodcommunication,problem-solving, criticalthinking,analyticaland observationalskills,andexcellentoral andwrittencommunication.These abilitieswillequippupilsforthefuture workplaceandareparticularlyrelevant intherapidlyadvancingtechnological age.
Beforecompletingtheirspecialized disciplines,studentsreceiveabroader perspectiveonhumancivilizationand aworldoutlookthroughcoursesinthe humanities,socialsciences,natural sciences,andformalsciences.They canthinkmorecriticallyandcreatively thanbefore,whichmakesthemmore pragmaticallyandtolerantlyinclined.
Accordingtoarecentstudybythe NationalCenterforHigherEducation ManagementSystems,individualswith aliberalartsdegreetypicallyearn significantlymoreaftergainingsome experiencethanthosewithprofessional degreesinmanagementorotherfields whichstarttheircareerswithhigh incomes.
Everyonemustnowbeawareofthe significanceandrangeofadegreein theliberalarts.Andhowtogeta degreeinthisdomainandhowitcould aidstudentsinstartingtheircareersin anychosenfield.
LListeningtoamildlydeep conversationbetweentwo passionateyoungmindsone oftenhearsthisstatement, 'I want to go and study at that college!' Itissaid withapureintentiontolearn, understand,andgrow,butwitha deepermeaning;toimbibethe disciplinethattheinstitution
instil 'sinthepersontomakethe l personacompletehumanbeing.
Traditionally,theeducationinstitutions weretaskedwithnurturingyoung mindsinaholisticarc,makinga completecircle,thesymbolof indigenousharmony.Thatisthereason whyRabindranathTagoresaid, "The highest education is that which does not merely give us information but makes our life in harmony with all existence."
Whileonepartwasmakingprogress towardsattainingliteracyinthe country,anotherpartwasstrugglingto accesstheirfundamentalrightseasily. Withaneedseenfortheadvanced studyofArts,ScienceandCommerce inthecommunity,thethenArchbishop ofMumbaiestablishedSt.Andrew's College
Inauguratingandunveilingthecollege totheworldwasdonebythenoble handsofSt.MotherTheresaMC, NobelLaureate.Slowlymappingits waytosuccessandbringingevery prominentcourseunderitswinds,St. Andrew'sCollege,today,hasbecome
dominantinstitutionofcommunity serviceandacademicexcellence.
Talkingaboutthecollege'sjourney fromaninstitutioncateringtoservethe communitytobecomingoneofthe mostprestigiousliberalartsinstitutes, DrMarieFernandes Principal ,the of St.Andrew'sColleges,alsoshedssome lightontheadministration,principles, andthecorevaluesoftheinstitution.
ColouringtheEmptyCanvas
Eventhoughthefoundationofthe prestigiouscollegewaslaidbySt. MotherTheresa,theactivefunctioning ofthecollegestartedon24June1983, whentheGovernmentofMaharashtra andtheUniversityofBombaygranted permission.Inauguratedbythethen ArchbishopSimonPimenta,itwas Msgr.NereusRodrigues,whofirst headedthecollege.
Passingonthetorchofcontinuous growthandableleadership,thecurrent ChairpersonofthecollegeisOswald CardinalGracias,underwhomthe collegehasshownincrediblegrowth. Explaininghowthecollegegrewwith time,capturingthemajordomainsof
theeducationsector.DrFernandes says, "Besides the tradition B.A and B.Com courses which were introduced at the start, BMS was started in 1999, BMM in 2002, B.Sc. (IT) in 2001, B.Com. (Accounts and Finance) in 2003, in 2007, B.Sc. (Hospitality Studies), in 2009, B.Com. (Banking & Insurance) in 2012, (M.Com.) and PhD Centre in English in 2016."
AHome-grownVisionaryEducator AftercompletingherPhDinEnglish,
DrMarieFernandesjoinedSt. Andrew'sCollegein1992.Starting fromthegroundasaseriouslecturerof English,itwasin2006whenshewas appointedastheeighthPrincipalofthe college.
Duringherjourneyfrombeinga lecturerwholaidtheseedsofideas, innovation,libertyandfreedominthe freeminds,tospearheadingthose valuesandideasintheinstitution,she wasappointedasaResearchGuidefor
theUniversityofMumbai.Today underherableleadership,eight studentshavesuccessfullycompleted theirPhD.
Withabooktitled, The Animal Fable in Modern Literature andover35 researcharticlespublishedinvarious journals,shehasturnedintoa passionateeducatorandresearcher
Highlightingsomeofthemajor indicatorsandturnsofherjourneywith
St.Andrew'sCollege,shesays, "Since I was passionate about research, I introduced the research culture in college. We have been organi ing at z least three major conferencesNational or International in college every year, from 2008- 2009, approximately 40 in all. This is done by the English and Economics Departments and our UNESCO/ Cardinal Paul Poupard Foundation Chair for Inter-Religious and InterCultural Dialogue established in 2009."
"I also introduced the annual staff conference to encourage staff members to pursue research, and this has produced wonderful results, as our staff members attend conferences and present and publish papers very regularly," shefurthercontinues saying, "For our students too, we have a student seminar and a journal where their research papers are published. We encourage them to take part in Avishkar, the University Research competition where over 800 colleges participate."
Beingacollegefoundedonthe principlesofservingthecommunity, andthemanagementundertheable guidanceofDrMarieFernandes,the collegetodayisasignificantinstitution ofholisticeducationinliberalarts.
FurtherassertingonSt.Andrew'sand hersignificantinternational achievements,shesays, "I received the prestigious 'International Visitor's Leadership Award' from the US Department of State, to visit Colleges and Universities across the USA, from
1-19 February 2010. It was wonderful exposure, and we saw it first hand and interacted with prominent educationists and policymakers from different states."
"In 2009, we signed an MOU and established the Chair Cardinal Paul Poupard Foundation Chair for Inter-Religious and Inter-Cultural Dialogue. In 2015 we received the UNESCO Chair for Inter-Religious and Inter-Cultural Dialogue with the Cardinal Paul Poupard Foundation," shefurtheradds.
Highlightingsomeofthemajor milestonessetbythecollege,she proudlyhighlights, "Through our International Conferences, we have been able to get foreign speakers. In our last conference organised by the UNESCO/Cardinal Paul Poupard Foundation Chair for Inter-Religious and Inter-Cultural Dialogue, we had speakers from several continents share their views and concerns over the issue of water for sustainable development." Shecontinues, "There were speakers from Rio, Congo, Russia, Paris and, of course, our very own country. The Guest of Honour was the President of the UNESCO Council of Intergovernmental Hydrological Program (IHP), Mr Fadi Comair."
"We received the Best College Award (2015-2016) conferred by the University of Mumbai on 26th January 2018. The University of Mumbai has over 700 affiliated colleges. We received an 'A' Grade by National Assessment and Accreditation Council for two successive cycles," shefurther adds.
SinceSt.MotherTeresalaidthe foundationstoneofSt.Andrew's College,ithasbeencommittedto reachingouttothepoorandthe sociallydisadvantaged.Thecollegehas aSocialOutreachprogrammewhere alloftheSecondYearDegreeCollege studentsworkfor20hourswith variousNGOsfromdifferentpartsof thecitytohelpvariousgroupsof peopleinneedofhelp.Theyalsohave theNSSandDLLEdoingremarkably goodwork.
HavingsetupthehubofLiberalArts, DrFernandesisproudoftheconstant flowofstudentsconsciouslychoosing tostudyliterature.Sheexplainsthe intricaciesofthiscourseandhowthe collegethrivesforstudentsuccess,she says, "Students who opt for Liberal Arts are at a great advantage. As a professor of English Literature, I make my students conscious of the fact that when they read literature, particularly the great classics, they get an insight into human nature which has not changed over the centuries. The colour of the skin might be different; dressing styles might be different, the century might be different, but human nature has not changed."
Vision
A commitment to guide our students to achieve excellence through holistic education.
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"Stories that have stood the test of time are relevant even today because they transcend time and place. Those who study the humanities are at a great advantage because they can understand human nature better," she furtheradds.
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Thecollegehasaphilosophyof groomingstudentstobecomeleaders andenjoyalldifferentformsofarts. Advisingthemontheirfuture,an eminenteducator,DrFernandessays, "The young generation has to discover the joys of reading. My advice to them is to read as many books as they can, for knowledge is power. Dream impossible dreams and find ways of reaching there. Talk to people and listen to some of their suggestions. Dare to be different, take the road less travelled, and leave a trail for others to follow."
Evenafterspearheadingtheinstitution toaninternationalstature,Dr Fernandesstillstrivesforsuccessand planstotaketheinstitutionfurtherto holisticallyservethecommunity Envisioningthefutureoftheinstitution movingforward,shesays, "The National Education Policy 2020 has some very encouraging features. An interdisciplinary approach to education will allow students of Commerce, Science, Technology and Medicine to study subjects that are in the Humanities – Literature, Philosophy, History and the rest. They could also opt for more practical courses in the Fine Arts and earn credits for doing Social Work and reaching out to Economically and Socially disadvantaged groups. Education should be student-centric and exams should test the students' creative, critical and analytical skills, not their memory."
Ÿ To mould students to be morally upright, socially commi ed, and spiritually inspired by Christian principles; to be responsible citizens of India and the world.
To enable students to realise their full potential in academic, cultural, and sporting pursuits.
To foster a scientific temper and encourage students to adopt a rational approach to solving problems.
To empower students to be good leaders who will spread the light of knowledge, harmony, and equality in all spheres of life.
To equip students with the required knowledge and skills to face the challenges of the real world.
