Interview Times 
FEATURE: In the world of academia, where passion meets purpose, Prof. (Dr.) Saranjit Singh emerges as a trailblazer whose journey redefines dedication and vision. With over 35 years of pioneering contributions to education, research, and leadership, he has inspired a generation to dream boldly and achieve fearlessly. Now at the helm as Vice-Chancellor of KIIT University, his story is one of relentless pursuit, profound impact, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of learning.
Academic Roots and Research Excellence
A stellar academic journey laid the foundation for his remarkable career. Prof. (Dr.) Saranjit Singh completed his Ph.D. in Production Engineering from BIT Mesra, Ranchi, an M.Tech. in Production Engineering from IIT Varanasi (formerly IT-BHU), and a B.E. in Mechanical Engineering from Savitribai Phule Pune University.
His teaching and research interests reflect his versatility and depth of knowledge. Spanning material processing technologies, cleaner manufacturing strategies, quality management, and metal matrix composites, his contributions to the field have been transformative. Over the years, he has guided five Ph.D. scholars and supervised 25 master’s dissertations, all while publishing more than 100 research articles in national and international journals and conferences. His dedication to scholarship extends to authoring three books on material processing technologies, solidifying his stature as an authority in the field.
Destined for KIIT: A Turning Point
Prof. (Dr.) Saranjit Singh’s association with KIIT University began in 2009 when he was appointed Dean of Mechanical Engineering. His ability to organize exceptional industrial conclaves caught the attention of Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the visionary founder of KIIT. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Prof. Singh says, “It was pure destiny. KIIT was meant to be a part of my journey, and I was meant to help it grow. The trust Dr. Samanta placed in me has played a huge role in where I am today.”
Prof. Singh views Dr. Samanta as more than just a mentor—he describes him as a legendary figure in education who remains remarkably grounded. “Dr. Samanta believes that true talent thrives when given the freedom to grow, and that’s exactly what he gave me. His example of humility and service to society has inspired my own path,” says Prof. Singh. Dr. Samanta’s selfless commitment to education and his visionary leadership have shaped not only KIIT University but also the future of countless individuals like me. His motto, “Live with purpose, serve with humility,” has profoundly impacted my own journey and continues to guide my approach to leadership.
A strong believer in loyalty and dedication, Prof. Singh is convinced that professional success comes from fully committing to an organization. His dedication has not only helped him achieve personal milestones but has also contributed to KIIT’s rise as a globally recognized institution.
Leadership Roles and Impact
Beyond his academic prowess, Prof. (Dr.) Singh’s administrative acumen has been instrumental in shaping KIIT’s landscape. From serving as the Director of Industry Engagements to holding the post of Dean of Training and Placements, he has been at the forefront of preparing students for successful careers. His 11-year tenure in career augmentation and training is marked by initiatives that holistically developed students’ skills, ensuring their readiness for the ever-evolving professional world.
As the Vice-Chancellor, he brings his visionary leadership to the helm of KIIT. His approach epitomizes the Rigvedic hymn, “Let noble thoughts come to us from every side,” which he considers a guiding principle in his work.
Inspiring the Next Generation
At the heart of Prof. (Dr.) Singh’s legacy is his role as a teacher. His love for teaching is evident in his efforts to inspire students to strive for academic and personal excellence. He aims to create an engaging and challenging learning environment where students emerge as lifelong learners, equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.
Prof. (Dr.) Saranjit Singh’s journey from a promising academician to the Vice-Chancellor of KIIT University is a story of vision, dedication, and destiny. His contributions to education, research, and institutional development have left an indelible mark on the academic community. As a professor, mentor, and leader, he continues to inspire countless students and colleagues, embodying the ideals of service, loyalty, and excellence.
In the words of Prof. (Dr.) Singh, “If you truly respect something, you must dedicate yourself to it with unwavering commitment, day and night.” It is this unwavering dedication that has made him a stalwart in academia and a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
