We Foster a Culture of Innovation and Creativity, says Chancellor of Chandigarh University

In a conversation with Shiksha.com, Satnam Singh Sandhu, Chancellor of Chandigarh University talks about initiatives taken by faculty members that help build an environment at Chandigarh University where students and faculty members are encouraged to think out of the box and come up with new ideas and solutions. According to him, Chandigarh University's vision is to build a globally recognised institution that provides quality education. 

Satnam Singh Sandhu's consistent and spirited work towards the advancement of the higher education ecosystem in India is today a lighthouse for global entrepreneurial perspectives in learning, teaching methodologies, research, innovation, and work opportunities for students coming in from around the world.

1. What inspired you to establish Chandigarh University and what were your goals when you first started the University?

The vision behind the establishment of Chandigarh University is to build a globally recognized and respected institution that provides quality education and stands tall in terms of research, innovation, and higher education. Apart from this, if we talk about the goals, the sole aim behind the establishment of Chandigarh University is to provide students with a quality education that satisfies global education standards, help students conduct cutting-edge research, and foster entrepreneurship.

2. How has Chandigarh University evolved over the years, and what are your plans for its future growth and development?

Since its establishment in 2012, Chandigarh University has undergone significant evolution ranging from the expansion of academic programs, research & innovation to world-class infrastructure and international recognition. Overall, Chandigarh University has evolved into a leading institution in India, providing world-class education and research opportunities to students from around the globe. 

3. What unique academic programs or initiatives do Chandigarh University offer, and how do they prepare students for the future?

Chandigarh University offers a wide and unique range of academic programs and initiatives that prepare students for the future.  From Industry-Academia Collaborative Program (IACP) and Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) to Global Study Programs and Academic Clubs and Societies, Chandigarh University leaves no stone unturned in providing its students with the best to help them succeed in their distinct career paths.  Also, Chandigarh University helps students develop the skills and attributes required to succeed in the job market, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and communication skills.

4. How does Chandigarh University foster a culture of innovation and creativity among its students and faculty members?

Chandigarh University has various initiatives to foster a culture of innovation and creativity, such as the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Research and Development opportunities, Hackathons and Competitions, Industry Collaborations, Incubation Centre, Innovation Clubs, and more.  These initiatives help build an environment at Chandigarh University where students and faculty members are encouraged to think out of the box and come up with new ideas and solutions.

5. How does Chandigarh University ensure that its graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the job market and succeed in their careers?

From Industry-oriented Curriculum, Industry-Academia Collaboration, and Internship Opportunities to Soft Skills and Personality Development and Placement Support, Chandigarh University has a range of initiatives to ensure that its graduates are prepared to meet the requirements of the job market and succeed in their careers.  Furthermore, Chandigarh University aims to provide a well-rounded education to its students that enables them to pursue a successful career.

6. What role does Chandigarh University play in promoting research and development, and what are some of its notable achievements in this area?

At Chandigarh University, we understand the importance of research and development in advancing knowledge and innovation. To this end, we have established numerous research centers, including advanced centers for learning in partnership with top industry leaders such as Amazon and international centers such as Namaste France. These centers have been instrumental in facilitating research across various fields and have earned us repeated recognition for filing the highest number of patents in a single year. We even have our space center on the campus and our students have created their satellite, CUSAT, as a result of the university's focus on research and development.

7. How does Chandigarh University promote diversity and inclusivity on campus, and what steps does it take to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students?

​One of the best things about CU is its diversity and inclusivity on campus. We have students from across India and over 50 countries across the globe. We believe that diversity of culture, ideas, and perspectives enriches the learning environment and prepares students for the global workforce. We have implemented several measures to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students, including counselling services or organizing various events that bring them together and give them a platform to share their culture with their fellow students.

8. How does Chandigarh University collaborate with industry partners and other institutions to promote knowledge exchange and innovation?

Chandigarh University has established strong collaborations with industry partners and other institutions to promote knowledge exchange and innovation. We have partnered with several leading organizations, including IBM, TCS, SBI, and others, to provide our students with practical exposure to the latest technologies and industry practices. We also have the highest number of academic collaborations with international institutions in the country. We have over 443 international collaborations with top-notch universities and colleges in 86 countries. These collaborations facilitate student exchange programs, joint research projects, faculty development and a lot more.

9. What advice would you give to students who are considering pursuing higher education, and how can they make the most from their university experience?

My advice to students who are considering pursuing higher education is to focus on their goals and make the most of their university experience. It is essential to choose a program that aligns with their interests and passions, and to take advantage of the resources and opportunities that the university offers. Students should actively participate in extracurricular activities, internships, and research projects, which will provide them valuable skills and experiences that can enhance their employability.

10. Finally, how does Chandigarh University contribute to the local community, and what are its plans to make a positive impact on society in the future?

Chandigarh University is dedicated to improving the local community and creating a positive impact on society. Our commitment is reflected in our Institutional Social Responsibility programs, which actively address social issues such as poverty, health, and education through community engagement and volunteerism. We have launched various initiatives, including Radio Punjab 90.0, a Community Radio Program that provides a platform for students and local voices to promote community development by sharing their stories. Throughout the years, our faculty and students have been actively involved in volunteering and innovation to contribute to society. Our future plans involve expanding our ISR program, establishing more research centers to address societal challenges, and developing innovative solutions to promote sustainable development.