Moving into a higher orbit Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, New Delhi

India Today

21-06-2025

A sustained effort in curriculum innovation, industry engagement, experiential learning and student development has transformed the commerce department at ARSD College
ATMA RAM SANATAN DHARMA COLLEGE , New Delhi
No. 7 (2025) up from No. 12 (2020)
A few years back, you would not have found the commerce department of Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College among the most high profile in Delhi University. Today, however, the department has quietly evolved into one of the best centres for commerce education marked by a serious academic engagement and a close connect with the industry.
At the heart of this turnaround lies the rapid implementation of Delhi University's Undergraduate Curriculum Framework 2022 (UGCF 22). The updated syllabus introduced cutting-edge subject areas such as business analytics, sustainability, ESG investing and advanced research methodologies into the classroom, creating a much more exciting learning environment for students. But the changes went beyond content. ARSD employed a research-oriented experiential learning model where students engage in research, surveying and analytical exercises under faculty mentorship. 'This made even tough commerce concepts easy for students to grasp. It also led to improved critical thinking and problem-solving skills,' says Prof. Vinita Tuli, ARSD spokesperson.
Collaborative learning has also been fundamental to this shift. Real-world business situations, economic policy issues and financial strategies compel the students to engage at a deeper level for assignments. Meanwhile, training in contemporary teaching techniques, AI-based applications and case study pedagogy has empowered the faculty, which in turn has aided students' learning.
Combining theory with practice, industry veterans are regularly invited for guest lectures, giving students professional insights. At the same time, the interesting work produced by student-led societies such as the Commerce Association, Finance and Investment Cell and Entrepreneurship Cell is enhancing the department's reputation in the outside world. The groups have organised academic festivals, competitions, panel discussions and presentations that put the students' talent on display and develop their soft skills and leadership abilities. 'This new focus on practical and professional preparedness has significantly increased placements. In fact, ARSD commerce graduates are now getting placed with top companies such as Deloitte, EY and KPMG,' adds Tuli. Proactive career guidance programmes, assistance with internships, career fairs, skill enrichment workshops and mock interviews have also done their bit in making graduates work-ready from day one.
This sustained strategic effort in curriculum innovation, industry engagement, experiential learning and overall student development is beginning to show results. ARSD's commerce department is now among the most exciting at Delhi University.