To set the standard for excellent Outcome Based Education (OBE), NICMAR University has made a
paradigm change from traditional assessment and evaluation to digital one. With its four-decade
leadership tradition, NICMAR University will become a role model for assessment and evaluation
through the use of cutting-edge technology (such as blockchain-based digital certificates) and
innovative tools such as paperless and on-demand examinations, among others. The
technology-based digital assessment and evaluation will provide several benefits, including as;
Administrative Time and Speed of Results: Evaluating answer booklets and entering marks
manually
is time-consuming and poses security risks. Digital answer scripts can be distributed
electronically, making the process efficient, rapid, and safe. Technology-enabled digital
evaluation helps assign roles, create automated workflows, and establish evaluator hierarchies.
Marks are delivered directly to the exam ERP system, speeding up result processing. Digitised
answer booklets can also be stored for longer durations if needed.
Quality Improvements: Maintaining consistent and high-quality marking is crucial. Digital
evaluation allows monitoring of evaluators and tight control over the marking process. Scripts
can be automatically routed for quality assurance, and auto-stop features can be employed for
markers
with scores outside tolerances. This reduces human error in calculating or transcribing
results. Mark schemas or rubrics can set score boundaries, limiting incorrect marks. Digital
assessment ensures every page of the digitised answer booklet is reviewed.
Security of Evaluation, Paper Masking, Exam Papers, and Results: Traditional open house
processes are tedious and time-consuming. Digital evaluation simplifies this by allowing
learners to access their evaluated answer booklets remotely. Evaluated answer booklets can be
sent to students automatically on demand.
Automatic OBE Records: Modern ERP systems capture data from both formative and summative
assessments, generating various OBE reports automatically. Configurations for OBE parameters
like rubrics, course learning objectives, and programme learning objectives can be easily set
up.
Digital Certificates: NICMAR University issues temper proof digital certificates with
cutting
edge technology. Digital certificates can be verified across the world in a few seconds. This
will increase the reliability of the certificates issued by NICMAR University.
In the days ahead, NICMAR University's technology-enabled model will be the standard for others.
Warm regards,
Dr. Adinath Damale
Controller of Examinations
LATEST UPDATES
Workplace Excellence Award
NICMAR University, Pune, proudly received the prestigious Workplace Excellence Award – Diamond
Rank in the Sustainability category (Manager level), sponsored by iNFHRA. The award, presented
on November 15, 2024, at Sheraton Hotel, Pune, recognizes our commitment to fostering a
sustainable future through education, innovation, and impactful practices.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Celebrating the Launch of Book
We are happy to announce that our Hon. Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mrs. Sushma S. Kulkarni, has worked as one of editors for the book “Academic Leadership in Engineering Education-Learnings and Case Studies from Educational Leaders Around the Globe,”, she is also author of one of the chapters. It has been published on Springer Nature: https://lnkd.in/dRJwECUP.
The book is divided into four sections. Each section comprises multiple chapters written by different academic leaders that are based on their experiences of implementing best practices at their respective institutions.
Section 1: Governance and Leadership of Engineering Institutions
Section 2: Creating Quality Learning Experiences
Section 3: Preparing Institutions to become Knowledge Hubs for Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
Section 4: Empowerment of Faculty and Students for the 21st Century
The sections and chapters will be of great value to multiple stakeholders in leadership positions at engineering institutions including Presidents, Vice-Chancellors, Provosts, Directors, Deans, Heads of Departments and Faculty members aspiring to be academic leaders. Each chapter will be presented through case studies from successful programs initiated and pioneered at various engineering institutions across the globe.
(Name from left to right) Dr. Michael Milligan, Chief Executive Officer of ABET; Dr. Rohit Kandakatla, Member GEDC; Dr. Mrs. Sushma S. Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor, NICMAR University, Pune, and Chair, GEDC; Dr. Hans J. Hoyer, Executive Director, GEDC.
IGBC Platinum Certification
We're proud to announce that NICMAR University, Pune, has embarked on a
remarkable journey towards sustainability. Through a successful collaboration with Eco
Solutions, NICMAR University, Pune campus has achieved Platinum Certification under the
Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Existing Campus Rating System for Phase l to V, and III
(Part), marking a significant milestone in its sustainability journey.
Key Green Features Implemented in the university campus include: 100% Waste Management, 100% Waste-water reuse, 100% Rainwater Harvesting, 100% Non-roof Coverage with High Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) Paint, 38.27% Green Cover, 20.30% Reduction in Annual Water Consumption, 41% Annual infrastructural equipment load catered with Solar PV. This achievement underscores the University's commitment and dedication to create an eco-friendly campus that aligns with global environmental standards and green building excellence to set a shining example for sustainable development in the education sector.
HAPPENINGS @NICMAR
World Quality Week
School of Construction, NICMAR University and digiQC hosted the World Quality Week (WQW) Program
on November 13, 2024, under the theme “Quality: From Compliance to Performance.”
This event brought together a panel of industry leaders to share their valuable insights on maintaining quality in construction. Pranal Rokade of Raymond Realty emphasized that customer satisfaction should be the ultimate goal when defining quality. Virendra Anekar from Cushman & Wakefield highlighted the need to embed quality assurance within project budgets to ensure consistent standards. Dhairyashil Khairepatil of ACCE India stressed the importance of durability as a key factor in long-term quality. Kaushik S. Venugopal from SJ Contracts discussed how leveraging technology can enhance project outcomes and ensure superior results. Dr. Anil Agarwal from NICMAR University concluded that quality is crucial in meeting customer expectations and delivering successful projects.
Academic and Administrative Audit
The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) conducted a comprehensive academic and administrative
audit on November 18 & 19, 2024 to evaluate and enhance the overall functioning
of the University. Dr. Sudeep D. Thepade, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Pimpri Chinchwad University, Pune
and Dr. Shrikant Kallurkar, Advisor, Research Institute for Studies in Vedic Sciences, Vishwa
Global Shivpuri, Akkalkot were the external experts for this audit.
Honourable President and Chancellor Prof. Anil Kashyap, Vice-Chancellor Dr. (Mrs.) Sushma S.
Kulkarni and all Deans and program Heads of NICMAR University, Pune actively contributed to the
deliberations on quality practices. Dr. Rahul Deshpande, Dean QA proposed a vote of thanks.
Panel Discussion and Guest Session
The School of Construction, NICMAR University, Pune hosted a guest session on "Leveraging
technology for optimized project outcome." Mr. Nazim Siddiqui, the CEO of ColabTools, an
innovative Indian construction technology firm explored how digital innovations are becoming
essential for effective construction project management, offering new levels of precision,
transparency, and efficiency.The session thoroughly explored various aspects of "Project
Planning and Scheduling" for MBA-ACM and PGD-QSCM students, with Dr. Nilesh Patil and Prof.
Abhishek Shrivas overseeing its organization and delivery.
Simultaneously a panel discussion on "The Future of Digitization and Innovation in Built
Environments” was also organized.The panelists include Mr. Nazim Siddiqui (CEO, ColabTools), Mr.
Hrishikesh Shinde (General Manager-Quality, KRISALA Developers), and Dr. Anil Agarwal (Dean
Academics, NICMAR University Pune). The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Smitha Yadav
(Dean, School of Construction, NICMAR University Pune).
The panelist summarized that digital technologies, including BIM, drones, AR-VR, 3D printing, and blockchain, are helping Indian companies to overcome traditional challenges, enhance project performance, and set new standards in the global construction arena.
Guest Lecture
School of Construction, NICMAR University, Pune hosted Mr Harshal Bhalerao
Executive Director, P3world Council, for an insightful guest lecture on
"Global Context of Public-Private Partnerships, the Challenges faced and the
Future Prospects" on 17th November. The session, attended by the
students of MBA in Advanced Construction Management, explored multiple challenges faced by
the PPP Ecosystem in India and abroad, with the help of case studies. The Session also
highlighted the way forward to overcome the challenges and the need of more experts in the
PPP domain.
Training on Integrity and Collaboration in Administration
NICMAR University successfully conducted a two-day outbound training program on “Training on Building Integrity, Communication, and Collaboration in Administration” for our administrative staff on 23rd and 24th November 2024. Held amidst the serene surroundings of Bahai Academy Panchgani, the program was designed to strengthen collaboration, improve communication, and foster a spirit of camaraderie among participants.
45 staff members across functions and designations took part in the first round of training. Topics like Team Work, Work Ethics, Professionalism, Effective Communication, Conflict Handling and Time Management were effectively covered by the trainers. Through interactive activities, engaging workshops, and thought-provoking discussions, the participants gained valuable insights into effective teamwork.
Birthday Celebrations- Nov’24
Continuing our tradition of celebrating birthdays as a way to honour the incredible people
we work with, we marked the birthdays of our November-born colleagues on the last working
day of the month.
Purandar Fort Trek
A one-day trek to Purandar Fort was organized on Saturday, November 30th. The event saw
enthusiastic participation from many employees, making it a memorable experience.
The trek offered an opportunity to connect with nature while strengthening team bonds in an
environment that was both challenging and refreshing.
ALUMNI CORNER
Strengthening Alumni Bonds
The Association of Global NICMARians (AGNI) PSC members recently visited NICMAR University,
Pune, to strengthen Alumni activities and networks. The visit was marked by key discussions
focused on collaborative efforts between AGNI and NICMAR to streamline operations, plan upcoming
events and foster seamless connectivity.
Key members who participated in the discussions included Dr. Anil Kashyap, Director General,
NICMAR and President NICMAR University, Dr. Mrs. Sushma S. Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor, NICMAR
University, Mr. Amol Chavan, Head Education Services, Hindustan Construction Company (HCC), Dr.
Jonardan Koner, Dean of Career Services, International Affairs, and Alumni Relations, Dr.
Vandana Bhavsar, Head Alumni Relations, and Mr. Arshad Shaikh, Executive Alumni Relations who
were joined by representatives from AGNI -Mr. Yayati Kene and Mr. Manan Gupta. The shared vision
for the future of NICMAR Alumni relations was central to the meeting, ensuring a sustained
impact on both current students and graduates alike.
EXECUTIVE EDUCATION PROGRAMMES
Following management development programs (MDPs) were organized by the School of
Executive Education Programmes, NICMAR University, Pune in November:
Name of the Programme
Name of the company
Date
No. of participants
Construction Project Management
Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Ltd.
04th to 08th November 2024
18 officers
Leadership in Civil Contracting Project Management programme
Executive Post Graduate Diploma in Advanced Construction Management (E-PGD-ACM)
Adani Airport Holding Limited (AAHL)
(Batch 1)
17th to 23rd November 2024
25 officers
Executive MBA in Infrastructure Construction Management (E-MBA-ICM)
Larsen & Toubro Ltd (Batch 1)
25th to 30th November 2024
(Semester 1)
57 officers
Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Ltd (MSETCL) officers
Adani Airport Holding Limited (AAHL) Officers
STUDENT NOOK
Oath Taking
On 12th November 2024, NICMAR University, Pune, held the Oath Taking Ceremony of the Student
Council 2024-25. The event began with the Sash exchange ceremony where the outgoing council
bestowed the responsibilities upon the newly appointed members. Following which the Student
Council 2024-25 recited the Oath which was led by Student Coordinator 2023-24.
The event was held in presence of Dr. Mrs. Sushma S Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Anil Agarwal,
Dean, Academics, Dr. Darshan Mahajan, Dean, Student Affairs and all other respected Deans.
Kalakshetra’24
On 15th November 2024, NICMAR University, Pune, organized Kalakshetra’24, a cultural night with
an intriguing theme of ‘Masquerade’. It commenced with performances by the budding talents of
NICMAR Music Club, NICMAR Fashion Club, NICMAR Dance Club and MAD Club. The celebration reached
its peak with a Gala Night where the students engrossed themselves in the dance and music. It
was a night of mystery, elegance, excitement and enjoyment.
Boita Bandana
On 15th November 2024, NICMAR University, Pune, Celebrated Boita Bandana, a vibrant festival
rooted in Odisha’s rich maritime heritage. This festival had a serving of delicious cuisine, an
authentic Odia delicacy with festival prasad for lunch. Followed by Odia snacks served to the
students in the evening. Students savored the rich flavours of Odisha as they celebrated this
festival.
Constitution Day
On 26th November 2024, NICMAR University, Pune, celebrated Constitution Day in the light of
commemorating the adoption of the Indian Constitution. Together, the students and staff recited
the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. It reflected the values and principles that guide our
nation. The ceremony concluded with the National Anthem being played.
Urban Water Study Tour
MBA Environmental Sustainability students from NICMAR University, Pune, participated in an Urban
Water Study Tour on 11th November 2024, organized with ECOSAN Services Foundation and the WASH
Synergetic Alliance. The tour included visits to the Parvati Water Treatment Plant, the
Erandwane Sewage Treatment Plant, and COEP’s decentralized wastewater treatment system.
This hands-on experience highlighted sustainable solutions for urban water challenges and the
importance of recycling and metering in Pune’s water management system.
Exploring Advanced Waste Management
MBA Sustainable Energy Management students from NICMAR University, Pune, visited the Adar
Poonawalla Clean City Initiative by Serum Institute of India and Gangotree Energy Pvt. Ltd. on
16th November 2024 to learn about sustainable waste management and energy solutions.
The visit emphasized innovative practices for urban resilience, holistic waste management, and
sustainable energy generation. NICMAR University thanks both organizations for this enriching
experience.
PLACEMENT SPOTLIGHT
NICMAR University, Pune, continues to be a preferred destination for esteemed recruiting
organizations seeking to fill both specialized and high-volume positions.
November 2024 was a particularly successful month for our placement efforts. Notable
companies such as Mahindra Lifespaces, Mirage (Dubai), Karle Infra Pvt. Ltd, Hinduja
Renewables, VOLTAS International, and ICICI Bank recruited talent for specific
and niche roles. Additionally, we witnessed organizations like KEC International,
L&T, Kalpataru Projects, Godrej & Boyce, and Worley India successfully hired
for bulk positions, reinforcing NICMAR’s reputation for catering to diverse recruitment
needs.
NICMAR University, Pune, takes immense pride in partnering with leading organizations to
fulfill their fresh talent requirements.
Chief Patron
Dr. Anil Kashyap,
President and Chancellor, NICMAR University, Pune
Patron
Dr. Mrs. Sushma S. Kulkarni,
Vice Chancellor, NICMAR University, Pune
Advisor
Dr. Rahul Deshpande,
Dean QA, NICMAR University, Pune
Editors
Dr. Vandana Bhavsar,
Associate Professor, NICMAR University, Pune
Editors
Dr. Soumi Rai,
Associate Professor, NICMAR University, Pune
25/1, N.I.A. Post Office, Balewadi, Pune – 411 045, Maharashtra,
India
