Special focus on NEP initiatives: Rohtak university’s new Academic Affairs Dean

Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), Rohtak, Vice-Chancellor Rajbir Singh has appointed Harish Kumar, Head, department of journalism and mass communication, as the Dean of Academic Affairs.

Kumar officially assumed charge as Dean on Thursday, expressing his commitment to upholding the university’s academic excellence and enhancing the quality of teaching and research.

He emphasised the need to align the academic structure with New Education Policy-2020. An alumnus of Punjab University, Chandigarh; Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC); and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, Kumar brings over 37 years of teaching experience and a strong background in professional journalism.

Kumar, while talking to The Tribune, outlined his vision for strengthening academic framework in line with the evolving demands in higher education.

He said special focus would be placed on implementing initiatives aligned with the New Education Policy, ensuring that academic programmes remained relevant, rigorous, and forward-looking.

He emphasised his commitment to upholding the university’s tradition of academic excellence, and pledged to work towards further enhancing the quality of teaching and research.

“Academic excellence will remain our priority. We will work collectively to foster an environment that supports innovation, critical thinking, and scholarly engagement. Efforts will be made to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and improve student outcomes across departments,” said Kumar.

He expressed his intention to engage with faculty and students to identify key areas for academic growth and introduce reforms that enhance the overall educational experience.