Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya, Jalandhar: Transforming Commerce Education for a Global Business Arena

Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya
Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya, Jalandhar

The changing landscape of commerce education in India is driven by the need to align with industry requirements, technological advancements, and global trends. The focus is on providing students with practical skills, an entrepreneurial mindset, global exposure, and a holistic education that prepares them for a dynamic and competitive business environment.

Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya, Jalandhar, is a leading commerce institute in India, which stands out for its commitment to excellence. The college was established in the year 1927 in Lahore. Mahatma Hans Raj Ji, a very dedicated and selfless worker of the DAV Movement, laid the foundation of this institution in Lahore in 1927 with the noble mission of educating girls. The institution was shifted and re-established at Jalandhar in 1948 after partition. Dr Sarvapalli Radhakrishanan, himself an enlightened soul, the then Vice President of India, inaugurated the present core block of college on 7th Nov. 1959.

Ever since its inception, the college has been committed to the cause of women’s education. At present, this is one of the oldest institutions established by the DAV College Managing Committee, operating under the supervision and guidance of a great visionary leader Dr Sh. Poonam Suri, President, DAVCMC, New Delhi. The college has the unique distinction of having been re-accredited with a grade A scoring 3.83 (the highest score in India amongst women’s colleges) out of 4 in NAAC accreditation. The college is also recognised by UGC as a ‘College of Excellence.’

Catering the Educational Needs

HMV is catering to the educational needs of more than 5000 girls and providing them with skills and education according to the needs of the industry. The institute provides education in the fields of Humanities, Science, Computer and IT and Commerce. The college has got the highest grade in NAAC accreditation twice.

The college received ASSOCHAM Education Excellence Award for the excellent contribution of the institution in fostering affordable quality education and taking initiatives for social responsibility and nurturing an atmosphere of excellence in February 2019.

In June 2019, HMV was declared an excellent college by OUTLOOK magazine in their edition of India’s Best Professional Colleges. The college was awarded ‘Excellence in Creative and Performing Arts’ in the 6th FICCI Higher Education Excellence Awards during the 15th FICCI Global Higher Education Summit 2019, organised by FICCI, INDIA, on 27th November 2019 in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India and Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.

The vision of the college is to provide women with education focusing on holistic development and empowerment.

Marching Towards Sustainable Growth and Prosperity

Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya’s mission is to provide value-oriented, skill-based and globally competent education in sync with the nation’s march towards sustainable growth and prosperity. The Commerce Department believes in the concept of ‘Learning by Doing’. So, several industrial visits are organised from time to time in the college, with a view to making its students aware of real-world situations.

Besides this, the students get hands-on experience by getting industrial training in various institutes of repute as per the requirement of the curriculum. To keep pace with the requirements of the industry, several courses have been added to the department from time to time.

With a view to enhancing the employability skills of the students, a number of Skill-based Certificate Programmes are run by the department, such as ‘Investor Education and Awareness,’ ‘Personality Development and Soft Skills Training,’ ‘Banking, Finance and Insurance.’

The PG Department of Commerce and Management is fully dedicated to providing quality-based and professional education to students. Ever since its inception in 1983, the principal aim of the department has been to make commerce students understand the practical realities of the business world and to make them successful, globally employable and competitive in the dynamic environment.

The students bring laurels to the institution by bagging top university positions. The department has been accredited by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India for imparting coaching for the CA Foundation examination and is a proud Alma Mater of many successful chartered accountants, teachers, bankers, entrepreneurs, company secretaries, stock market operators etc.

Over the years, the department has manifested a remarkable progression and has carved a niche in the academic world of commerce and management. The same has been proved as the department got top positions in Punjab in various rankings such as India Today Ranking, Open College Survey Rankings, and The Week Ranking.

Etching a Remarkable Legacy

Some of the notable achievements and recognitions of the college are as follows:

  • HMV awarded as Best Institute in Skill Development and Education in the Education World Grand Jury Awards
  • HMV ranked in the top tier of ASSOCHAM Edu Tech 100 Institutions List
  • FICCI honours HMV with the Excellence in Higher Education Award
  • HMV was honoured by NCC as the Best Institute in NCC Activities
  • HMV etches its name in golden letters in the Chronicles
  • HMV etches its name with golden letters in The Week Rankings
  • Four-star rating for IIC, HMV
  • HMV hailed as a leading and a ‘Performer Institute’ in ARIIA Rankings
  • HMV recognised at the National level for its unique Wastepaper Recycling Unit
  • Principal of HMV honoured at 74th Republic Day
  • Principal of HMV elected as President, GNDU Sports Committee (Women)
  • Principal of HMV received an Appreciation Award from International Human Rights Commission

The college has dedicated departments to instil innovative and entrepreneurial skills among the students. Institution Innovation Council and Entrepreneurship Development Cells organise a number of activities for budding entrepreneurs.

  • Innovation-related Activities
  • Seminar on ‘Wakeup the Entrepreneur in You: A Mission for Self-Reliance’
  • Workshop on Millets
  • Exhibition of Innovative Products

Besides this, HMV Fiesta Trade Fair is organised by the Commerce Department in order to inculcate a professional spirit among the students. They were divided into different groups and were assigned responsibilities related to the organisation as well as the management of the trade fair.

Dealing with Intricacies of International Business

The institute strives to make the students ready to deal with the intricacies of international business. For this, a number of activities are organised from time to time, such as:

  • Organisation of International Conferences. The students get an opportunity to interact with delegates from other countries and understand the nuances of international business.
  • Organisation of Model United Nations Conference (HMV MUN). It is an extracurricular activity in which students typically role-play delegates to the United Nations and simulate UN committees.

Enhancing the Quality of Education

The faculty of the college is highly qualified and dedicated to providing quality education to the students. A number of measures are taken from time to time to hone the skills of faculty.

  • The faculty updates their skills by being a part of various induction programmes, refresher courses, international seminars and conferences.
  • The research papers of the faculty are published in journals of national and international repute.
  • The technical skills of the faculty are updated from time to time.
  • Faculty enrichment programmes are organised from time to time.

HMV Fiesta Trade Fair is organised by the Commerce Department in order to inculcate a professional spirit among the students. They were divided into different groups and were assigned responsibilities related to the organisation as well as the management of the trade fair. Besides, the students also manage and market the products and services of various stalls set up by outsiders, such as readymade kurtis and suits, ethnic wear, beauty salon, IELTS coaching centres, diet clinics, Allahabad Bank, export unit, Punjab National Bank, etc. Students are also given a chance to showcase their talent. They also put up their stalls such as homemade chocolates, handicrafts and gift and craft items.

A number of guest lectures are organised in the college to make the students aware of the practicalities of the real world.

The college makes every possible effort to provide support services to the students, such as:

  • A number of scholarships are offered to the students to assist them financially.
  • Book bank facility is provided to the students where they are given free books.
  • Mentoring sessions are organised every month to provide guidance to the students and resolve their problems, if any.

 

Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya: Reimagining Psychology Education

Psychology education in today’s time goes beyond traditional theories and practices, adapting to the ever-changing demands of the interconnected world. By emphasizing mental health, cultural competence, and interdisciplinary collaboration, it nurtures professionals who can tackle the challenges of the modern era. As the world continues to evolve, psychology education will play a pivotal role in creating a more compassionate, inclusive, and mentally healthy society.

Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya strives to be at the forefront of this innovation in psychology education.

Possessing a legacy of 97 years with glorious records to its credit Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya, Jalandhar, stands unmatched in its glory and grandeur and is vibrantly marching forward, setting new patterns for empowering women and building a better nation. HMV is passionately dedicated to the noble mission of the DAV movement.

A canopy formed by the blessings of the pioneers of the pious mission makes Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya an icon of excellence and repeatedly acknowledged for its achievements on national and international platforms.

Imparting a Blend of Traditional Values with Modernity

HMV aims to impart a perfect blend of traditional values and ethics with modernity keeping pace with changing times. It achieved the highest A++ grade, with the highest score of 3.65 in the third cycle of NAAC reaccreditation in September 2021. It has been acknowledged as the top-ranking institute on various national and international platforms time and again by ASSOCHAM, FICCI, The Week, The Times, India Today, and many more.

The vision of HMV is Women’s Education focusing on holistic development and empowerment. Its mission is to provide value-oriented, skill-based, and globally competent education in sync with the Nation’s march toward sustainable growth and prosperity. Specifically in the field of psychology, it aspires to foster the development of competent professionals who can contribute to the well-being of individuals and society. HMV aims to be a leading institute known for excellence in education, research, and community engagement.

Its mission and vision align with current trends and challenges in the field of psychology by addressing the growing demand for mental health professionals, promoting evidence-based practices, and emphasizing the importance of holistic approaches to psychological well-being. It strives to prepare its students to address contemporary issues such as mental health stigma, cultural diversity, and the integration of technology in psychological interventions.

Creating a Different Brand

The institute sets itself apart from others in terms of academic programs and curriculum through several key aspects. Firstly, it has designed a comprehensive and industry-relevant curriculum that covers various subfields of psychology, including clinical psychology, counselling psychology, and research methodology. This interdisciplinary approach equips students with a broad understanding of psychology and prepares them for diverse career paths.

Additionally, the institute offers specialized programs such as the Bachelor of Vocation and Masters of Vocation in Mental Health Counseling, which provide practical training and hands-on experience in counselling settings. This unique program caters to the increasing demand for qualified mental health counsellors.

Establishing a Remarkable Legacy 

The institution has won a number of accolades in the past year. Education World, in its Grand Jury Higher Education Rankings 2022-23, has assessed HMV as the No. 1 institution in Punjab and No. 4 in India and accorded the Principal with the Award of Extraordinary Leadership. Times Cyber Media has declared HMV as the topmost Women’s College of India, and the eminent cricketer Sh. Sunil Gavaskar was awarded the prestigious Education Excellence Women College of the Year (2021-22) Award during the International Education Awards Meet in Mumbai.

India Today has ranked HMV amongst the topmost colleges of Punjab and India in seven streams in the Best College Survey rankings 2022. HMV has been ranked first in Punjab in Commerce Stream and Science Stream, Second in Punjab in Humanities, among the Top 10 Colleges of India with Best Value for Money, and amongst the Top 5 Colleges of Punjab in Mass Communication, BCA, and Fashion Designing. Further, in Open College Survey Rankings, HMV has been ranked at No. 1 in Punjab in Science, No. 2 in Arts, Mass Communication, and Fashion Designing, and No. 3 in Commerce stream.

In yet another ranking by The Week Hansa Research Survey of Best Colleges 2022, HMV has made obvious its charismatic presence by getting first rank in Punjab in Arts, Science, and Commerce, second rank in Fashion Technology, and third rank in Mass Communication.

ASSOCHAM National Council on Education has placed the institution among the Top 100 Higher Education Institutes in India. ASSOCHAM has also declared HMV as Best Institute working for social cause for the fourth consecutive time, and the award was bestowed by Sh. Ajay Bhat, Minister of State in the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Tourism.

Further prestigious magazine Academic Insights has accorded the institution first rank in Punjab and second rank in the Arts, Science, and Commerce Colleges of India. Institution Innovation Council of the college has achieved the 4 Gold star rating declared by the Ministry of Education for the second time in a row.

HMV was also conferred with an IPR Awareness award by the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks under the Innovation Council, Govt. of India. Further, the institution was bestowed with the prestigious award for Best Start-Up with Social Impact at MMIFF Indian Innovative Start-up Conference & IISA AWARDS 2022, where the wastepaper recycling start-up was well appreciated for its social impact.

Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi also appreciated the efforts of HMV for doing exceptional work in inculcating the spirit of waste management. HMV was invited to Pune to showcase its wastepaper management initiative at National Conference on Education for Sustainable Development organized by Bhartiya Vidyapeeth Pune in collaboration with ESD Expert Net and Engagement Global, Germany.

FICCI has conferred the college with the award of ‘Excellence in Institutional Social Responsibility,’ which was presented by Dr. Bhagwat Karad, Honourable State Minister of Finance, Government of India.

Apart from this, HMV has organized webinars and workshops on topics like mental health during the pandemic, gender equity issues, and behaviour modification techniques. It has collaborations with renowned counselling centers, hospitals, and educational institutions to enhance practical learning opportunities for students. Its students have received awards and recognition for their academic performance and research projects.

Prioritizing Research-based Education

HMV fosters an environment of research and innovation by encouraging students and faculty members to engage in research activities. It has collaborations with external research organizations and institutions to promote interdisciplinary research. Regular research seminars and conferences are held to disseminate research findings and encourage scholarly dialogue.

Bringing Diverse Cultures Under One Roof

Ensuring cultural sensitivity and promoting inclusivity are integral values in the institute.  It is a proud fact to share that HMV has students from as many as 14 states on a roll. It has implemented various measures to address the needs of a diverse society, including:

  • Incorporating cultural competence training in the curriculum to enhance students’ understanding and sensitivity towards different cultural backgrounds.
  • Organizing workshops, seminars, and guest lectures on topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in psychology.
  • Providing opportunities for students to engage in community outreach programs that promote mental health awareness and support underserved populations.

The faculty at the institute consists of highly qualified and experienced professionals who are dedicated to delivering high-quality education. Faculty members holding relevant academic qualifications, such as Ph.D degrees in psychology, are on a roll. Continuous professional development through participation in conferences, workshops, and research activities is done. Regular performance evaluations and feedback from students and peers are ensured to maintain teaching excellence.

HMV actively engages with the community and incorporates real-world experiences into its curriculum through various initiatives. These include:

  • Collaborating with community organizations, hospitals, and schools to provide internship and practical training opportunities for students.
  • Guest lectures and workshops by professionals from the field to expose students to real-world applications of psychology.
  • Outreach programs focusing on mental health awareness, counselling services, and community support.

Comprehensive Career Development

To support students’ academic and personal growth, it offers academic counselling and guidance for course selection, career planning, and personal development. Students have access to well-equipped libraries, online databases, and study materials to enhance learning.

Peer mentoring programs and remedial classes for students who require additional support aim to enhance their performance.  There are counselling and psychological services for students facing emotional or psychological challenges.

The institute provides comprehensive career development opportunities and placement support to students. It provides career counselling and guidance to help students explore various career paths in psychology. HMV offers internships and practical training placements to gain hands-on experience.

There are networking opportunities with professionals and alums through seminars, workshops, and alums networking events. Students get regular updates on job vacancies and placement support to facilitate successful transitions into professional roles.