Photo Source; Babushahi Bureau
Dr. Jagdeep Singh assumes charge as Vice Chancellor of Punjabi University
- Shares Vision and Priorities for the Future of Punjabi University
Babushahi Bureau
Patiala (Punjab), May 21, 2025: Dr. Jagdeep Singh, the newly appointed Vice Chancellor of Punjabi University, assumed office today amidst a warm reception from university officials, teaching and non-teaching staff unions, and other stakeholders.
During the occasion, Dr. Singh shared his vision and priorities for the future of the university. Expressing his pride at being entrusted with this responsibility, Dr. Singh remarked, “I am honored to serve the institution from which I have personally received my higher education. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to contribute to the growth of Punjabi University.”
A key focus of his agenda, Dr. Singh emphasized, is the growing need to bridge the gap between educational curricula and the ever-evolving needs of the industry.
"It is critical that educational institutions adapt their courses to meet the demands of the industry, ensuring that students are equipped with practical skills that are directly applicable in the workforce," he stated.
To address this, Dr. Singh outlined plans to involve industry representatives in the university’s curriculum development process.
“By including professionals from relevant industries in the Board of Studies, we will ensure that our curriculum aligns with the real-world demands of the job market,” he explained. This collaboration will allow the university to design a syllabus that not only meets academic standards but also improves the employability of graduates. Additionally, he suggested the introduction of short-term certificate courses tailored to the needs of various industries.
Reflecting on the university's journey, Dr. Singh praised Punjabi University's significant contributions to higher education, particularly in the Malwa region of Punjab.
“Punjabi University has achieved tremendous success in advancing education in the region, and its dedication to promoting Punjabi language, literature, and culture remains unparalleled,” he said.
“Moving forward, we will continue to take steps that are in tune with both the evolving times and the changing needs of society and the economy.”
In closing, Dr. Singh expressed his gratitude to the Honorable Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, the Honorable Governor, Mr. Gulab Chand Kataria, and the entire Punjab Cabinet for entrusting him with this esteemed position.
The ceremony was attended by Dean of Academic Affairs, Prof. Narinder Kaur Multani, Registrar Prof. Sanjeev Puri, Dean of College Development Council, Dr. Balraj Singh Saini, and numerous senior officials, along with current and retired faculty members from Dr. Jagdeep Singh's teaching department.
Dr. Jagdeep Singh comes to Punjabi University with an extensive academic and administrative background. Currently, he was serving as the Registrar of the Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER) Mohali. Prior to his tenure at IISER Mohali, he held various leadership roles within the Department of Higher Education, Government of Punjab, including Director (o), Additional Director, Deputy Director, and Chief Vigilance Officer. Dr. Singh was also the Registrar at the Central University of Punjab for four years, where he contributed significantly as Controller of Examinations and Finance Officer.
Notably, Dr. Singh played a pivotal role in the establishment of IISER Mohali, having been appointed as the project coordinator by the Government of Punjab. Additionally, he served as an advisor in Biotechnology at Pushpa Gujral Science City and led numerous projects, including the Biotech Gallery, Evolution Gallery, Dinosaurs Park, AIDS Gallery, and the Red Ribbon Project.
A trained assessor of the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), Dr. Singh holds a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, with post-doctoral training in Molecular Biology. His research interests focus on DNA methylation in cancer and the epigenetics of aging.
Dr. Singh has published over 20 research papers on systematics and the epigenetics of cancer, and his recent book, Science and Spirituality: The Journey Within, explores the intersection of science and spirituality.