Shoolini University sees approximately 1,500 students graduating each year, with around 900 to 1000 actively seeking jobs through the university. This includes students from diverse academic backgrounds, such as Liberal Arts, pure Sciences, and unconventional programs like Yoga, who are encouraged to pursue job opportunities.
The last Placement Season at Shoolini University was remarkable for its extensive reach and diversity of companies that participated. This season too, the university has developed a comprehensive strategic plan for Placements 2024. Avnee Khosla, the Director of Placements & Admissions at Shoolini University, shared her vision for Season 2024.
Q.1 What is Shoolini University’s Placement goal in 2024?
The placement process for 2024 is currently in progress, which means that hiring is on! Shoolini University sees approximately 1,500 students graduating each year, with around 900 to 1000 actively seeking jobs through the university. This includes students from diverse academic backgrounds, such as Liberal Arts, pure Sciences, and unconventional programs like Yoga, who are encouraged to pursue job opportunities.
Our approach is to be inclusive in our placement efforts, catering to students at all levels of study, be it undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral, seeking employment. We believe in providing job opportunities to all students, irrespective of their field of study. This aligns with our vision of inclusivity in placements, going beyond traditional subjects.
Further, we are focused on promoting entrepreneurship among students by launching more startups. Many students see startups as an exciting avenue to kickstart their careers, even if the initial salary packages may not be high. Students can benefit from Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) and contribute to companies’ growth in their early stages.
Our strategic objective for this year is centered around inclusivity and promoting startups. Additionally, we have set ambitious goals under our ‘Mission 130’, aiming for 100% employability, with 50% of students securing positions in top-tier companies. This represents an increase from our previous target of 30%, thus providing students with excellent career opportunities.
Q.2 Any industry partnerships or collaborations on the horizon for Shoolini University?
Shoolini University recently inaugurated the Himachal chapter of the National Human Resources Development Network (NHRDN) on its campus, granting access to over 6,000 Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs) nationwide, spanning established companies and startups. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with NHRDN, and the university is set to host the inaugural NHRDN conference on campus in February. This partnership presents vast opportunities for collaborations and openings for our students.
Additionally, Shoolini University has partnered with the ICT Academy to offer specialized training in Cloud Computing and deep tech Data Science. Students are eligible for job roles in leading companies such as Tech Mahindra, Infosys, and TCS upon certification. This collaboration focuses on the technology sector.
In the field of Journalism, Shoolini University has successfully placed its entire batch of 2023 graduates into full-time positions, a notable achievement considering the usual trajectory of journalism careers where graduates typically start as interns. Collaborations with news channels and content creators/influencers have facilitated this placement’s success.
Furthermore, the university is ready for the Pharma placement season in 2024, with expectations of 100% placements in top Pharma brands, continuing the trend from previous years.
Q.3. What are the university’s plans to enhance industry connections to improve placement opportunities?
Strengthening academic collaborations with industries is a key focus for the university. We have implemented programs with solid industry partnerships. For instance, our MBA program now includes subjects in Accounting and HR through a recent agreement with KPMG. Additionally, we’re partnering with Algo 8, an AI startup, to enhance our data science courses. Discussions are underway with the London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF) to collaborate on our MBA and BBA Finance programs. Moreover, partnerships are being forged with industry giants like Henkel and Biocon to enrich our bioengineering programs and research endeavors.
Q.4. What measures are Shoolini University taking to prepare students for the evolving job market requirements in 2024?
Our Board of Studies is constantly analyzing market trends, while our Learning team identifies the latest skills employers seek, including technical and soft skills. Our SPRINT program, an advanced training initiative tailored for MBA students, addresses these aspects. Also, we regularly update our curriculum to align with the evolving demands of the job market, emphasizing technical skills. For instance, we recently overhauled the curriculum just before the start of the new semester in February. This comprehensive review process involved removing outdated content and integrating new skills to ensure our students are equipped to meet the demands of the evolving job market.
Q.5. Any updates or modifications in the 2024 admission criteria?
Shoolini University has traditionally conducted entrance tests for its undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral admissions. We have raised the standards this year, making the entrance exam more challenging. We will assess students’ aptitude and language proficiency. Additionally, we have set stricter eligibility criteria, particularly for the MBA exam, focusing on specific skill requirements. Moreover, we are introducing a six-week pre-batch intervention program on campus for MBA students to enhance their confidence before joining the main batch.
Q.6. What challenges does Shoolini University foresee in the 2024 placement season, and what strategies are being adopted to tackle them?
Due to a slowdown in hiring within the tech sector, I encourage students to utilize their free time to enhance their skill set. Consider enrolling in online courses, networking with peers, and seeking employment opportunities. Career paths are not always linear, so seize any chance to gain experience. Securing a campus placement is crucial as it boosts your market value.
Q.7. What initiatives are in place for Placements 2024?
Placement committees have been established in every department this year, with active participation from the MBA, computer science, and biotechnology teams. Faculty members and the placement department are providing full support. It’s a valuable opportunity for students to leverage their LinkedIn network to connect with employers, make a positive impression, and secure attractive job offers.
Concluding Remarks
Shoolini University's placement and admission strategy in 2024 corresponds to the dynamic job market. The university enhances career opportunities across various fields by emphasizing inclusivity, innovative partnerships, and industry collaborations. Through initiatives like ‘Mission 150’, curriculum updates, and the establishment of student-led placement committees, Shoolini University is boosting employability and job quality for its students. By building essential skills and encouraging active student involvement, the university addresses today’s challenges and prepares graduates to excel in the job market.
