R.P. Sharma Institute of Technology HOD Mechanical Engineering: Prof. H.K. Jha Interview

Prof. H.K. Jha is the Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department at R.P. Sharma Institute of Technology, Patna. He is a dynamic and motivated academician with 12 years of teaching and research experience. From Academics, he obtained his bachelor degree in B.Tech(Mechanical engineering) in 2009 and Master's M.E(Heat power) degree in 2015. He is presently pursuing his Ph.D. Research work as well. He possesses great knowledge in the area of Thermal Engineering. He has attended many Reputed International and National conferences and published papers in International journals for his credentials.

What are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

“Ensure a healthy, positive and constructive learning environment for the students”

• Collect lesson plans from teaching staff before the commencement of classwork and ensure that the information provided is in accordance with the format. 
• Make sure that the timetables are prepared as per the guidelines given by the principal and inform the faculty members and students at least one week before the commencement of the classwork. 
• Arrange special classes if necessary for the benefit of below-average students. 
• Allocate the students to the teacher-counsellors at the beginning of the academic year.
• Interact with students (Section-wise) of their branch at least once in 15 days, identify their problems and find solutions in consultation with the principal. 

How do you tend to establish healthy relations with the students and fellow faculty?

“We aim to establish a balanced fellow faculty-student relationship”

I am always trying to ensure that students talk with their teacher frequently, and receive more constructive guidance from their teacher. The student is likely to trust their teacher more, show more engagement in learning, and achieve at higher levels academically. Positive teacher-student relationships draw students into the process of learning and promote their desire to learn.

How do you try to bring in a practical approach towards subjects?

“We strive to relate the theory component of the subject with industrial application”

We are always trying to co-relate the theory part of the subject to industrial applications of mechanical engineering. The most important factor for practical and industry-oriented approach in Mechanical engineering courses is, it builds a foundation that helps students in after-college life. Internships play important role in building this thought. Practical work can in fact facilitate learning in the classroom. Using a practical activity can help structure engagement and knowledge retention: Many students learn more easily by actually “doing” activities. This is particularly relevant in practical activities.

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What are the best practices offered by the department to the students?

“Auto CAD software, MAT Lab and various Design and Simulation software training”

The Mechanical Department provides interactive and innovative teaching practices to transform students into competent engineering professionals. The best practices offered by the department are AutoCAD software training, MAT Lab and various Design and Simulation software training to the students which enhance the skills. Today's era of ever-growing challenges of limited resources demands a new generation of mechanical engineers cultivated with the necessary skills and innovative spirit. The said demand is being fulfilled by imparting theoretical rigour imparted from courses in basic sciences and interdisciplinary topics.

How does your department prepare students for Higher education and placements?

“Pre-placement training and classes for clearing GATE and ESE exams”

Around 60% of the students are placed in reputed industries as well as Gov Sector, through campus and off-campus recruitment and the remaining 40% prefer higher studies in India and abroad. The consistent placement record illustrates the commitment to the success of the Institute. We are trying to motivate the students to crack the GATE Exam for this we conduct seminars related to GATE and ESE exams. While teaching in the classroom we provide GATE questions related to the concerned topics. After qualifying GATE students can do higher education (e.g. M.Tech) from reputed institutes.

How does the department enhance the skills of the faculty?

“Various FDP’s, Seminars, Workshops are being organized in the Institute campus”

The core faculty comprises well-qualified and experienced academicians from reputed institutions such as NITs, Universities and reputed institutions. Faculty members continuously innovate and upgrade their teaching methodology to suit the current requirements of the Industry. To enhance the skills, various FDP’s, Seminars, Workshops are being organized on the Institute campus. To enhance industry standards our faculty members join the conferences, workshops and webinars conducted by various reputed institutions and Universities.

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What valuable advice would you like to give the students?

"Expand your knowledge and develop multiple skills in college"

I implore the students to never practice procrastination. One common misconception is that your professional experience starts after college. Expand your knowledge. Students learn multiple skills in college. Pay attention especially to Maths and core subjects related to mechanical engineering classes. Seek internship opportunities. Consider taking part in a work-study program.