Dr Sivathanu Pillai gives an inspiring orientation lecture while inaugurating the faculty induction programme at VIT University, Bhopal
The distinguished professor of ISRO and Padma Bhushan recipient, Dr A. Sivathanu Pillai, known to all as the father of the BRAHMOS missile system, is happy that Indian universities are finally changing and and are orienting themselves towards research and collaboration.
Inaugurating the faculty induction programme at VIT University, Bhopal, the professor said, “It’s high time that we as Indian nationals and specifically as educators contemplated on how to make a mark globally, and in this venture VIT University can lead from the front.” He asked the newly recruited faculty members to expand themselves in knowledge and learning and pursue teaching as a nation-building activity. He also stated that learning must be continuous and research from academic forum is integral to the development of the nation.
He elaborated on the achievements of ISRO and how institutes contribute in new advanced technology in space research. He insisted on the importance of connectivity and communication with the universities across the world. He specified how classrooms have become small and research labs have taken over new education system. He requested the new recruits to inculcate the spirit of oneness among the students. “Young minds should be inspired to dare to imagine the impossible,” Dr Pillai said. He emphasised that teachers have an important role to play and that they should understand the potential of the students and help them constructively achieve their target.
The Chancellor, Dr G Viswanathan, founder and Chancellor, VIT University, presided over the function. During his presidential address, he highlighted the importance of higher education among all sections of society. He stressed how without the empowerment of the weaker sections, a country could not claim to be developed. He said, “The fruits of development should reach all.” He also deliberated upon the importance of hard work, punctuality and adaptability in accordance with the changing environment by citing the examples of countries like China, Japan and South Korea.
Dr Viswanathan discussed the four principles of VIT University which focus on academic excellence, character, health and placement. He emphasised the importance of discipline and human values and how Indian values if taught well can be the answer to the whole world which is on the verge of erosion. He emphasised the importance of planning and timelines in life and reiterated how the teachers could build a nation by being a friend, philosopher and guide to the students. The Chancellor also thanked Dr Pillai for inaugurating the induction programme.
Ms Kadhambari S. Viswanathan, Assistant Vice-President ,VIT University, Chennai, said it was a milestone achievement for VIT Bhopal to be the the first and the only private university in India to have 100% doctoral faculty on inception and recruited faculties from across the country. The average age of the faculty members is 35. At present, VIT Bhopal offers courses like B.Tech, Integrated M.Tech, B.Com, BCA and BBA. She thanked the faculty members of the VIT University, Chennai in helping to pass on the baton to the new recruits smoothly.
Dr VS Kanchana Bhaaskaran, Dean Academics, offered a warm welcome address to all the dignitaries present in the auditorium. Dr P Gunasekaran, Pro-Vice Chancellor, gave a brief outline about VIT Bhopal.