Dr. Sujatha Patil is presently working as the Principal, Law Program (School of Business & Law) at Navrachana University, Vadodara. Holding prominent positions at many reputed institutions and academic committees, she has published papers extensively in peer reviewed impact factor journals of National & International repute. She has been a recipient of many national and international awards. Apart from academics, she has also practiced for 1 year in the High Court of Karnataka-Bangalore, and is a member of editorial board of Gujarat Law Journal (GLJ) as well. 

Navrachana University

What are the key factors that keep you connected with the education sector?

“True sense of satisfaction and interaction with students”

Teaching is a noble profession which shapes the character, ability, and future of an individual. It gives a lot of satisfaction to see young scholars learn and grow, and the experience of interactions with different students is truly enriching. Even doing collaborative work with students like writing research papers, doing project work, helps us to take the students in the right direction and we also get the opportunity to learn from the younger generation.

What is your philosophy of leadership?

“Clear-cut vision to foster the growth of institution”

Leadership is a very much responsible position. I feel it is the leadership who builds or breaks an educational institution or organization. If a leader is a visionary and open to new ideas, definitely an educational institution can flourish. A leader should be prepared to accept everything that happens in the institution. When leaders take pride in success, they should also accept failures. A leader should lead by example and should ensure compassion to all his juniors. Most important thing is to trust colleagues and juniors. 

What can an inbound student gain from studying here in your university?

“International collaborations and growth aspects at many levels”

At our university we do have an International Cell, which assists in developing an extensive network with Universities and Institutions worldwide. MOUs with universities abroad, joint academic programs, summer/winter internships, student/faculty exchange programs, distinguished visiting professors, lecture series, etc. are the key USPs we offer exclusively at our University. We have a management that encourages academics and research. In addition to this, we also have a very good team who are dedicated towards the work and ready to extend complete support whenever needed.

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How does the curriculum of your program ensure the best practice of industry?

“Hands-on practical training and range of opportunities”

The 5 year Integrated BBA LLB program really offers a diverse range of courses, including both law and management, which are relevant with the current needs of the industry. While we deliver theoretical knowledge, we lay a lot of emphasis in practical knowledge as well. Internships and practical training is a major part of the curriculum that helps students prepare for the competitive market. The course makes students job-ready for various sectors and provides them with an opportunity to increase their market value. With the knowledge of management and in-depth knowledge of law, candidates have the best of both worlds as they can easily handle multiple roles in an organization that too in an efficient manner.

Did you find any difference between NLUs and Non-NLUs?

“Perception and mindset is the only difference”

I feel it’s just the perception of students that there is a huge difference between NLU and Non-NLU law schools and getting admission in a NLU will ensure a successful career. But ultimately it is the quality of education and the perseverance of the student that matters the most. I would like to state that Law School is not a goal but a means to achieve the final goal of becoming a successful Law Professional but many students make it their goal and that’s where they fail to become a good professional. Likewise, many renowned lawyers are not from NLUs, they too studied in private or government Law colleges. I honestly say that the mindset of the students about NLUs has to be changed.

Why should a law aspirant choose Navrachan University for their education?

“Dynamic theoretical and practical learning perspectives”

We provide students with a plethora of practical exposure in the form of compulsory internships and training programs right from 2nd Semester onwards. These internships are spread across 5 years in diverse firms like NGO, trial court, Corporate, High Court and Supreme Court. Then we have a policy of inviting professionals from industry, academia and bar to give lectures on the subjects that are taught in a particular semester. So, while faculty members deal with theory, the professionals deal with practical aspects of the subject. The next thing we have done is to emphasize on capacity building, that is honing their skills to suit the professional needs. In this connection, we have introduced separate credit based practical papers and involve students in one or other activities like moot court, mock trial, debate, judgment writing, legal aid clinical and awareness program, guest lectures, presentation, group discussion etc.

What do you think your roles and responsibilities towards the students are?

“To set the academic climate and factors needed for it”

I take responsibility in promoting a culture of outstanding interdisciplinary education, research and innovation for students to have best growth within the campus. I also build collaborative relationships between departments and programs, across the University and into the community that helps create a healthy environment to learn and accomplish goals. I take a role in student mentorship programs by cultivating and developing relationships with alumni and industry partners, and fostering global engagement efforts.

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What would you like people to know about your university they may not know?

“Multifold approaches to education and professional associations”

Our University has embarked on a new educational standard that lays simultaneous emphasis on disciplinary education, interdisciplinary education, professional education and general education. Our University has adopted an Interdisciplinary approach for a long time. Under the Interdisciplinary education process we offer credit based courses like Khoj and ID paper. This provides an opportunity for the students to learn and understand different courses belonging to various programs. Also, we have a lot of plans in taking our Law program on par with reputed law schools in India. Currently we entered MOU with Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar, and in the same line we are also planning to enter MOU with a reputed law school at International level.

What do you see as Navrachna University's greatest strengths?

“Expert faculty, centre of excellence and alliance with foreign universities”

The strength of our University is the best faculties that we have and who are very much dedicated towards their work. Recently our University has entered MOU with reputed national and international universities in terms of having students and faculty exchange programs, collaborative research activities and joint organization of seminars and conferences, experts talk series etc. We also have different centers like research and innovation, continuing education, environment and sustainability, international cell etc.

All these centers play a significant role in the overall development of students and faculties.

What are some of the biggest challenges you see for higher education in India?

“Creativity, student success and digital upgradation”

At times, Indian education system doesn’t allow more creativity or innovations. In India education is a formality, part of routine activity and every Indian must get a degree of Engineering, Medical and Law whether you learn something or not. That mindset of students as well as institutions is the biggest challenge. Also, rising student expectations, external competitions, attracting the best students and retaining success rate are some other major problems that need solutions. Moreover, making research sustainable, and adequate technological and digital innovation are rising challenges for higher education institutions here. 

Any suggestions you would like to give to the aspiring law students?

“Think creatively, act consistently”

My message to students is to be dedicated, determined and disciplined in their journey as a student and also in their legal profession. Being a law student, they should develop the ability of thinking critically and creatively. Be What You Want to Be.