Mission and Vision that would bring to the University in its Academic Pursuit

Introduction

Having been associated with the University system both in academic and administration spheres over a period of thirty years, my vision for a university has obviously taken a concrete and well-defined shape depending on the present state of affairs and emerging fields of research in natural, social and pedagogical sciences. Here are some salient points.
In a nutshell, the university should aim at providing global education in a local environment so as to face the challenges of the 21st Century, which is also the demand of most of the present employers.

Faculty Members

Teachers' roles are very important in the University. They are the executors of the planning and policies of the University through their teaching and learning strategies. Teachers would not only motivate, but they would also stimulate and maintain high level of engagement in the class.

Students

The students are the principal clients of all educational organizations and only for them the organizations are all about. The students will be highly motivated and talented. Diversity of students would be considered as an asset for the University and would welcome students from different cultural backgrounds.

Instruction

Instruction would be sophisticated and suited to the needs of the students. Research shows that organization and clarity in presentation, warmth, and enthusiasm all play important parts in effective teaching.

Learning: Basics and extensions

I would prefer to apply science of learning because it has been proved that science of learning, if applied properly, can contribute to improving instruction in subject matter areas: learning to read, learning to comprehend text, learning to write and learning to think scientifically.
While the AI technology and machine learning should be available to the students, there should be room for open thinking and breakthrough research in natural and social sciences with special emphasis to the local needs. Furthermore, distance learning through extensive online courses with the mandates from the UGC, the State Government and learners’ demands should be a primary focus for a University.

The University Environment

Universities should maintain an Open School Climate which is characterized by teacher relations that are professional, collegial, friendly, and committed to the education of students.

The Classroom Environment

Classrooms are considered to be very important. Teachers should carefully plan rules, policies and procedures for the classes. Techniques of class management are needed to be used and high student involvement.

Content and Nature of Staff Development

Staff training and development or Continuous Professional Development (CPD) should be given importance in the Universities in order to maintain academic and professional standards.

Conclusion

In fact, establishing such a University requires cooperation from all the stakeholders. First of all, a strategic plan should be developed, outlining the short-term, medium-term and long-term goals. There should be clear-cut vision, mission, mission objectives, plan of actions etc.
However, some obstacles may also arise but will not be very difficult to overcome if there is strong commitment and desire to reach the desired goals.

Professor Pranab Ghosh, PhD, FICCE, FRSC
Research Fellow, INTI International University, Malaysia.
Vice-Chancellor
Dakshin Dinajpur University, Balurghat, W.B., India -733101
[email protected]