Ethical leadership in education serves as a bedrock, influencing not only academic standards but also the moral trajectory of future generations. In this realm, Prof. Bijayalaxmi Nanda, the esteemed principal of Miranda House, stands as an exemplar of ethical leadership, seamlessly weaving integrity, compassion, and visionary guidance into the institution’s fabric, thereby fostering a transformative environment for all stakeholders.
Prof. Bijayalaxmi’s tenure at Miranda House spans over two decades; she initially joined as a professor in the Department of Political Science after earning her Ph.D. from Jawaharlal Nehru University’s Centre for Political Studies. Her formative years were marked by an unwavering commitment to social justice and academic excellence, laying the foundation for her illustrious career.
Throughout her tenure, Prof. Bijayalaxmi has not only preserved Miranda House’s legacy of academic excellence but also spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives that propelled the institution to new heights. Her visionary leadership seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, ensuring that Miranda House remains at the forefront of educational advancement while cherishing its rich heritage.
Under her visionary guidance, Miranda House has become a hub of interdisciplinary collaboration and academic innovation. Prof. Bijayalaxmi actively fosters a culture of collaboration, encouraging students and faculty to engage in cross-cutting conversations through workshops, seminars, and research projects, preparing them to tackle complex challenges in an interconnected world. In 2023, Miranda College was ranked among the top 10 colleges under NIRF ranking by HT.
Moreover, Prof. Bijayalaxmi’s commitment to student welfare is evident in her extensive engagement with student-led projects. She supports student-led clubs and societies, providing them with resources and guidance to pursue their passions and effect positive change in society, thereby nurturing a culture of innovation, leadership, and social responsibility among students. Under her guidance, students at Miranda House have actively participated in research projects addressing pressing social issues. Supported by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), these projects delve into critical topics such as the examination of girl-child discrimination in India and the implications of declining child sex ratios on women’s safety and rights, providing valuable insights into gender inequality and contributing to policy discussions related to gender equality and female education.
“Prof. Bijayalaxmi’s advocacy for gender equality within Miranda House is exemplary. Her commitment to cultivating an inclusive and empowering environment is evident through various initiatives, including her involvement in designing a gender-inclusive curriculum, spearheading gender sensitisation workshops, and her advocacy through research and advocacy.”
At the core of her leadership lies an unyielding dedication to academic excellence and research. With four seminal books and numerous articles in esteemed journals to her credit, she has significantly influenced discourse on gender studies, political theory, and human rights, enriching the academic landscape within and beyond the institution. Prof. Bijayalaxmi’s influence extends beyond Miranda House, as she serves as a consultant to prestigious UN agencies such as UNFPA, UNDP, and WHO. Her contributions play a pivotal role in shaping policies and programmes globally, bridging the gap between theoretical insights and practical applications to effect tangible change on a global scale.
Moreover, Prof. Bijayalaxmi is a fervent advocate for gender equality and social justice. Her involvement in organisations like One Billion Rising and the Centre for Advocacy and Research underscores her unwavering commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of marginalised communities and advocating for systemic change at both local and global levels. Her leadership extends to student empowerment and holistic development. Initiatives such as the “Finding Leader in You (FLY) Programme” and the envisioned “Dream Project in Odisha” reflect her dedication to nurturing future leaders and empowering students to realise their full potential, fostering a culture of innovation, leadership, and social responsibility among students.
Emerging as a formidable academic leader, Prof. Bijayalaxmi is also a beacon of ethical stewardship and social responsibility within the educational landscape. Her unwavering commitment to academic excellence, gender equality, and student empowerment has propelled Miranda House to the forefront of educational innovation and social advocacy. As Miranda House continues to thrive under her guidance, her legacy as a transformative leader and compassionate mentor will inspire generations of students to contribute meaningfully to society, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
