Raghavendran Venugopal, Academic
Service Specialist
I am Raghavendran Venugopal, an
experienced academic service specialist with a demonstrated history of working
in the education industry. Skilled in academics, examinations, research,
management, student services, strategic planning, and business development. A
passion with a solid grounding in education for children, an obsession for
quality, and strong administrative and communication skills rooted in clear
work ethics. I have demonstrated the ability to build and lead teams of
teachers and staff who enthusiastically work together to deliver world-class
education.
With my two decades of result-achieving
experiences in the fields of education, training, strategic planning,
accreditations, institutional governance, and other areas, I served at various
universities before joining as Director of Academics and Examinations
Operations at Galgotias University and also served in various positions to
elevate academic standards.
I have introduced many initiatives
during his stint at Adani, Bennett, MIT World Peace University, JSS STU, and
VTU, resulting in the institution being recognized as one of the best emerging
universities in India today. I also initiated, strengthened, and further
streamlined administrative, academic, and examination processes, reforms, and
fiscal policies of the institution, driving performance management systems
aligned with the vision document of the organization. Played a significant role
in ISO standards and TQM principles in university administration.
I am a rare achiever who has led the
team in Karnataka towards digital examinations and was recognized as the Chief
Innovation Officer for VTU, Belgaum, in the years 2010–2011. These successes
have resulted in my being appraised as an ‘able leader’ or ‘outstanding
officer'—notable recognitions. Currently, I set individual targets and achieve
them in alignment with the organizational vision by adopting a people-friendly
approach, which is expected to lead the organization's march towards further
excellence.
Could you tell us about your
educational and professional journey?
I acquired a B.E. in Industrial and
Production Engineering, M.B.A. in Operations and Marketing Management, an
M.Phil. in Strategic Operations Management, an M.A. in Managerial Economics,
and a Ph.D. in the interdisciplinary subjects on Total Quality Management,
Education Management, and University Administration. I worked as an industrial
engineer and promotional manager before gaining hands-on experience in
education and the academic industry.
I am a member of the Institution of
Engineers (MIE), India; a life member of the Indian Society for Technical
Education (MISTE); a member of the All India Management Association (MIMA); and
many more institutions and associations. Moreover, I was honored with the “Best
Academic Enabler” award in 2023 by the Lexicon Institute of Management Studies
(India) in recognition of my contribution in the field of university
administration.
I am the founder and president of
associations named “Council of Examiners—India (CoE-India)” and “Registrar Grid
of India (RG—India)", which train, hold conferences, and publish articles
in the field of university examinations and university administration.
Additionally, I serve as a reviewer and advisory board member in three
international journals, which include education management, quality management,
and university administration.
What are your current roles and
responsibilities at Galgotias University and other institutions?
My Current roles and responsibilities
include a responsive entrepreneurial-focused portfolio providing
cross-divisional leadership in all aspects of student services, academics,
examination operations, support for education technology, as well as university
leadership. This is a complex and pivotal senior leadership role that monitors
continuing strategic positioning, internal and external partnership engagement,
and overall service leadership to students and key stakeholders. This is a
highly collaborative and visible role connecting deans and the vice chancellor
of the university. The areas of governance include, but are not limited to,
academic policies, quality and academic governance, examinations governance,
University data governance, research degrees, student's data, records, and the
student lifecycle management.
What are your areas of
expertise, and how have they evolved over your career?
I began my professional life as an
industrial engineer with a focus on manufacturing companies and resource
optimization. Gradually, I turned my focus to academia and began teaching a
variety of operations management courses. My aptitude for practically applying
what I have learned has led me to a position in university management.
What was the inspiration behind
getting into the field of education?
My passion for teaching and learning
stems from my family background, as I come from a very learned family that has
always valued education. In particular, my uncle, who is a retired scientist
from NASA, has been a major influence on my career choice. His dedication to
knowledge and his commitment to excellence have inspired me to follow in his
footsteps and make a difference in the lives of others through education.
Additionally, my classmates and friends
have also played a significant role in shaping my career path. Through our
shared experiences and mutual encouragement, I have gained a deeper
understanding of the importance of education and the impact it can have on
individuals and society as a whole.
What has been your most
significant achievement in your various leadership roles at universities?
My most significant achievements in my
various leadership roles at universities. One of my most notable
accomplishments has been spearheading the digitalization of evaluations way
back in 2010, creating educational technology platforms in 2017, which helped
the teaching and learning process in the university during COVID time, and now
working on enhancing e-university administration processes. These initiatives
have significantly improved efficiency, communication, and overall
effectiveness within the academic environment. I am proud of the impact these
projects have had on the university community, and I look forward to continuing
to drive innovation and excellence in leadership roles.
What advice would you give to
students who are preparing for their careers in various fields?
I would advise students to, first and foremost, know themselves better. Understanding your passions, skills, and interests is crucial to aligning yourself with a career path that will bring you fulfillment and success. It is also important to have a clear direction and roadmap for your future. Setting goals and creating a plan to achieve them will help you stay focused and motivated on your career journey. Take the opportunity to analyze your competencies and identify areas where you can improve and grow. By aligning your passion with your skills, you will find increased motivation and morale in pursuing your career aspirations. Gain occupational experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering to reduce the fear of failure and uncertainty about the future. I hope this advice will help you as you prepare for your future career endeavors.
Post a Comment