Our vision extends beyond conventional education, says Arsh Dhaliwal, Managing Director (MD) of CGC Jhanjeri

 

In a conversation with Shiksha.com, Arsh Dhaliwal, Managing Director (MD) of Chandigarh Group of Colleges (CGC), Jhanjeri talks about his vision for CGC Jhanjeri and how it prepares students for successful careers in their respective industries. Arsh Dhaliwal is the Managing Director (MD) of Chandigarh Group of Colleges (CGC), Jhanjeri and his ultimate goal is to take the legacy of the institution far and wide and emerge it as a global example in academia, research and placements. 

 

Q1. Can you discuss the mission of CGC Jhanjeri and how it prepares students for successful careers in their respective industries?

Founded in 2001 under the visionary leadership of Mr. Arsh Dhaliwal, CGC Jhanjeri epitomizes excellence, offering unparalleled education and securing top-notch placements in the region. Affiliated with I.K Gujral Punjab Technical University and approved by AICTE, our mission is to establish a cutting-edge learning environment with world-class facilities, fostering advanced teaching methodologies and hands-on practical training. We are committed to nurturing socially inclusive individuals, imbued with a strong conscience and a dedication to education.

At CGC Jhanjeri, our vision extends beyond conventional education. We aspire to continually evolve, positioning ourselves as a fountainhead among institutes of technical higher education in India. Through robust industry-institute interfaces, we aim to fortify connections with the professional world, preparing our students for successful careers. Additionally, our focus on promoting entrepreneurial activities instils a spirit of innovation, ensuring our graduates are equipped to thrive in dynamic and competitive industries.

Q2. Can you discuss any recent developments or additions in the courses at CGC Jhanjeri that you are particularly excited about and how these changes will benefit students?

At CGC Jhanjeri, our commitment to staying at the forefront of education is exemplified by the recent introduction of cutting-edge courses, reflecting the evolving industry landscape. With an expansive repertoire of over 70 courses, our newest additions, such as MBA in Digital Marketing, Business Analytics, International Business, and Fintech, align seamlessly with the demands of the contemporary job market.

What sets CGC-J apart is our emphasis on experiential learning. Beyond the traditional classroom setting, we empower students to glean insights directly from the industry. Through immersive experiences, students develop a nuanced understanding of workplace dynamics, cultivating skills like positive leadership and effective communication. These additions not only broaden academic horizons but also equip students with real-world acumen, ensuring they are primed for success in today's dynamic professional landscape.

Q 3. How does CGC Jhanjeri ensure its curriculum is up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, and what role do industry partnerships play in this process?

CGC Jhanjeri stands at the forefront of progressive education, offering a dynamic curriculum intricately aligned with current industry trends and best practices. Our dedication to bridging the gap between academia and the industrial sector is evident through initiatives like the Institute-Industry Interface, Pre-placement Training, Conferences, Seminars, and expert lectures. These endeavours foster a symbiotic relationship, ensuring our curriculum remains agile and in sync with the rapidly evolving professional landscape.

In addition to academic pursuits, our vibrant cultural activities, including International Delegation, HPL Sports Fashion Fiesta, Alumni Placement Day, College Life, and Convocation, contribute to a holistic educational experience. These events enrich students' lives, promoting a well-rounded development that extends beyond the classroom, preparing them for success in both their professional and personal journeys. At CGC Jhanjeri, we prioritize comprehensive growth, blending academic excellence with a diverse array of cultural experiences.

Q 4. Can you please discuss the campus facilities, financial support or scholarships from CGC Jhanjeri?

At CGC Jhanjeri, we pride ourselves on offering a holistic education with cutting-edge facilities. Our campus boasts state-of-the-art amenities, including sports and fitness centres, e-classrooms, and 24/7 security for a safe and secure environment. The dining experience is enriched with a restaurant, canteen, and cafeterias, providing students with diverse culinary options. Our world-class infrastructure and IT resources ensure a technologically advanced learning atmosphere. 

We understand the financial challenges students may face, and to address this, CGC Jhanjeri offers substantial financial support. The Josh Scholarship and education loans, accessible through platforms like Vidyalaxmi and Grayquest, empower students to pursue their academic goals without financial constraints. In 2023, we disbursed scholarships totalling 10 Crores, and our commitment continues to grow, with plans to award scholarships amounting to Rs 12 Crores in 2024. At CGC Jhanjeri, we strive to create an enriching and inclusive educational experience supported by top-notch facilities and robust financial assistance programs.

Q 5. How does CGC Jhanjeri support students' professional development, including opportunities for networking, mentorship, and job placement?

The Chandigarh Group of Colleges (CGC) places a paramount emphasis on career development through its Career Counseling and Placement Department (CCPD) and a dedicated Corporate Resource Centre (CRC). The CCPD provides invaluable guidance for placements, while the CRC addresses students' imperative needs during the selection process, ensuring the best match between student interests and available opportunities. The CRC's strong industry associations contribute to an outstanding track record of placements.

CGC has positioned itself as a pioneer in providing quality placement opportunities, not only for its students but also for those from various institutes in the North region. With over 50,000 placement offers and 1000 placement drives, CGC has become a leader in placements. The CRC continually invites companies from diverse sectors to offer substantial pay packages, resulting in CGCians securing multiple job offers well before completing their courses. This approach showcases CGC's commitment to providing students with a plethora of opportunities to kickstart their careers.

Q 6. Can you discuss any notable collaborations or partnerships that CGC Jhanjeri has established with other universities or organizations and how these collaborations benefit students and faculty members?

CGC Jhanjeri has strategically forged Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with esteemed foreign institutions, fostering a globalized academic environment. Partnerships with universities like Perm State University (Russia), Christian Brothers University, and V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University (Ukraine) reflect our commitment to a diverse and internationally relevant educational experience. 

These collaborations offer students and faculty unique opportunities, including exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and cultural exchanges, enhancing their global perspectives and skill sets. Students benefit from exposure to different teaching methodologies, cultural nuances, and collaborative research projects, preparing them for the interconnected world. Faculty members, on the other hand, engage in collaborative research, professional development, and knowledge exchange, elevating the overall academic calibre of CGC Jhanjeri. These strategic collaborations solidify our position as a hub for global learning, providing unparalleled opportunities for both students and faculty members.

Q 7. Anything else you would like to tell about CGC Jhanjeri?

CGC Jhanjeri is not just an educational institution; it's a hub of comprehensive learning experiences. Our commitment to research-based teaching is embedded in our core philosophy. We strive to create positive connections between students and research scholars, fostering intellectual and practical growth.

The 360° pedagogy at CGC ensures a holistic learning environment. Expert lectures by industry stalwarts and academics keep our students abreast of the latest corporate developments. Student mentorship and counselling sessions address academic challenges, providing a supportive learning ecosystem. Smart and virtual classes, supplemented by Spoken Tutorials from IIT Bombay, enhance technical knowledge.

Our state-of-the-art workshops expose students to hands-on tools and manufacturing setups, aligning them with industry demands. Project-based learning further solidifies their readiness for the professional world. At CGC Jhanjeri, we are dedicated to nurturing not just students but future industry leaders equipped with a well-rounded skill set and a deep understanding of real-world applications.