Letter from the Vice Chancellor

I am hugely pleased to be returning to the region where I was born and grew up. The hill schools of Darjeeling-Kalimpong as well as my people gave me the indispensable foundations for a journey of learning that now brings me home. As a शिक्षाविद (educationist), I am acutely aware of the legacy of our excellent institutions, and of the responsibility that falls upon all of us who serve in Darjeeling Hills University to pursue the goals of academic excellence.

Higher education is a public good that opens pathways for transforming individual lives as well as enriching societies. Darjeeling Hills University, as it comes into being, will focus on the core values that guide us in teaching, learning and research. At its heart resides the promise of a stakeholder-driven education, so that the graduating student steps into the world armed morally, intellectually and emotionally.

Our shared vision must centre on preparing students to adapt and thrive in a fast-changing world. Along with providing the tools for social mobility, and empowering the diverse communities that we serve, we must ensure that students leave the portals of DHU with skillsets, attitudes and an openness to new ideas that will underpin a continuous creation of value.

During a period of extraordinary change — a hyperconnected world, rapidly shifting economies, impending global challenges — local societies and communities will expect our students to be responsive to these tests and emerge as leaders and innovators in their chosen fields. It is only then that DHU can live up to its promise of a strong, regenerative, inclusive and relevant institution. We will strive to place ourselves at the forefront of new and emerging technologies, while remaining aware that no algorithm or AI can substitute for the human creativity that any Higher Education institution seeks to foster.

As a lifelong learner and educationist, I value your feedback enormously so that we may all benefit from shared insights through our future interactions and collaborations.

Prof. Dr. Prem Poddar

10 March 2023