Andhra Pradesh Empowers University Leadership Through Design Thinking Framework
Vice-Chancellors from diverse academic disciplines convened in Vijayawada to master user-centric governance strategies. The state-led workshop focuses on solving administrative hurdles using empathy-based problem-solving.
Modernizing Academic Governance through Creative Problem-Solving
In a strategic shift toward innovative university management, the Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE) launched a two-day workshop on Wednesday focused on Design Thinking. Hosted in Vijayawada in partnership with Acharya Nagarjuna University and funded under the RUSA 2.0 initiative, the event brings together Vice-Chancellors from diverse sectors, including health sciences, agriculture, fisheries, veterinary sciences, and horticulture.
From Theory to Framework: The Empathy and Define Phases
International expert Mohan Kancharla is directing the sessions, which move away from traditional lecture formats in favor of hands-on, collaborative learning. The curriculum guides academic leaders through the fundamental Design Thinking framework, specifically focusing on the Empathy Phase and the Define Phase. The sessions aim to teach administrators how to better understand stakeholder needs and frame institutional obstacles with precision. Key focus areas include:
- Enhancing leadership capabilities through global best practices.
- Redefining teaching and research methodologies.
- Improving student engagement and institutional development.
- Integrating innovation into daily decision-making processes.
Collaborative Solutions for Institutional Challenges
The participating Vice-Chancellors have been organized into five specialized groups to tackle real-world administrative issues. These teams are tasked with brainstorming solutions for human resource management and the practical hurdles of daily university operations. According to APSCHE Chairman K. Madhu Murthy, the initiative aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 and the goals of Swarnandhra and Viksit Bharat 2047. By reimagining higher education in the context of technological shifts and changing economic demands, the council aims to build future-ready, globally competitive institutions across Andhra Pradesh.
Source: The Hindu — Home
