From GNDU to Harvard: Dr Bal attributes success to research, mentorship

Dr Baljinder Singh Bal, a distinguished academician-cum-sportsman at Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) and a UGC Research Awardee (RA), attributed his recent career advancement not solely to individual effort but to the Guru-Shishya tradition, relentless research and strong institutional support. Recently, Dr Bal completed a Cognitive Fitness course at Harvard Medical School, USA.

Hailing from Sathiala village, he dedicated his achievement to his mentor, the late Prof Ajmer Singh, former Vice-Chancellor and holder of the prestigious Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Chair.

Playing a pivotal role in GNDU’s academic department, Dr Bal emphasised that progress in higher education depends on mentorship, interdisciplinary research and dedicated effort. With over 200 research papers to his credit and more than 13 patents secured in less than two years, he is also the recipient of four research projects.

Expressing gratitude to GNDU’s leadership, Dr Bal said, “The visionary guidance of Honourable Chancellor Gulab Chand Kataria, the intellectual commitment of Vice-Chancellor Prof (Dr) Karamjeet Singh, the scholarly expertise of Dean Academic Affairs Prof (Dr) Palwinder Singh and the administrative acumen of Registrar Prof (Dr) Karamjit Singh Chahal have been instrumental in my success.”

Dr Bal advised young researchers to strengthen the Guru-Shishya bond and embrace disciplined research to achieve success. The university community lauded his insights, hailing them as an inspiring roadmap for academic growth and a beacon for students and the higher education sector in Punjab and India.