‘Expect more PHDs and quality research output from students’
23 Jan 2016 4:38 AM IST
Dr M Jagadesh Kumar is set to become the new Vice-Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University. A professor of electrical engineering at IIT Delhi, he hails from Nalgonda, Telangana, and has been residing in the national Capital for the past 20 years. Speaking to Piyush Ohrie, Dr Kumar spoke about his passion for research and also his plans and priorities after taking over as JNU V-C. Excerpts:
Q: When will you be taking charge as JNU’s new V-C?
I am yet to receive the official letter but I believe Professor Sudhir Kumar Sopory is retiring on January 27, so let’s see what happens after that.
Q: As V-C, what changes would you like to bring about in JNU?
The focus would be to improve the learning environment, create excellence in teaching and create an ambience where students can take the centrestage.
Q: You are a researcher, would you expect more researches and innovation coming from JNU?
Research, innovation and curiosity for knowledge should be a hallmark for every institute and students in the country. JNU has a healthy system where researches in centres of social sciences, environmental engineering and biotechnology are much encouraged. I would expect more PHDs and quality research output from JNU students.
Q: JNU has been in the news for a number of controversial reasons, what are your views on them?
Universities are a part of society and what happens in society also gets reflected through the universities. I believe, there must be freedom of expression and your action must be within purview of law.
Q: How will you ensure safety of students, especially women, in JNU?
JNU is a safe campus but yes, I would sit with the security agency and assess measures to improve upon the situation.
Q: Can you describe your area of research for our readers?
Well, presently, I am researching in the area of electronic application where I am working in the field of integrated circuits which consume less power. If successful, we will be able to recharge our phones using minimum power. I have also researched in nano electronics.
Q: Apart from being a passionate researcher, you are also into karate. What are your fitness tips for the younger generation?
I have been a member of JNU Gymkhana from 2006 and besides this, I cycle to work (smiles).
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