RISHII Project Yearly Report

Introduction:
The RISHII (Reimagining Internationalization of Higher Education in India) project embarked on a transformative journey in 2020 with a clear vision to redefine and enhance internationalization efforts within our esteemed institution. This report encapsulates the tireless endeavors and notable accomplishments of the core committee and stakeholders throughout the year.

February: Definition of Institutional Needs
In February, the project took its inaugural steps by assembling a dynamic core committee comprising representatives from diverse stakeholder groups. Through a series of comprehensive meetings, the committee meticulously explored the institutional landscape, dissecting the intricacies of internationalization. These deliberations led to the identification of key niche areas harmonized with the institute's overarching vision and mission, laying the groundwork for future endeavors.
 

March: Contribution and Revision to the Internationally Open Teaching Rubric
March witnessed the core committee's fervent dedication towards refining the Internationally Open Teaching Rubric, a cornerstone document in our internationalization efforts. With a keen focus on engaging stakeholders from management, faculty, and student cohorts, the committee conducted rigorous assessments to ensure the rubric's alignment with institutional objectives. Parameters were meticulously refined, and program-specific attributes revisited, underscoring our commitment to excellence in international education standards.
 

April: Preparation and Attendance to the Kick-off Meeting
In April, the project gained momentum as the core committee actively immersed itself in the project application process. Collaborating closely with Dr. Vincent, the esteemed Dean of International Relations, the committee initiated the meticulous completion of various forms and attachments, incorporating iterative feedback loops to ensure comprehensive documentation. Moreover, active participation in the kick-off meeting on April 30th served to crystallize our understanding of project objectives and fostered a shared sense of purpose amongst stakeholders.
 

May: Contribution to the Action Plan for the Steering Committee
Amidst the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, May saw the formulation of a robust action plan designed to propel our internationalization agenda forward. Despite obstacles, the core committee demonstrated resilience by crafting a comprehensive roadmap encompassing faculty and student mobility, workshops, and promotional activities. Recognizing the need for enhanced engagement, the committee advocated for the establishment of subcommittees at the school level and appointed departmental Single Points of Contact (SPOCs), underscoring our commitment to inclusivity and efficiency.

June: Revision of the Internationally Open Teaching Rubric
June heralded a critical phase in our project journey with an exhaustive review of the Internationally Open Teaching Rubric. Drawing upon insights from academic, administrative, and student perspectives, the committee undertook a holistic reassessment to ensure the rubric's efficacy in nurturing internationalization efforts. This introspective exercise underscored our unwavering dedication to maintaining the highest standards of academic excellence.

July: Preparation and Attendance to the 1st Workshop
July marked a pivotal milestone as the core committee actively engaged in the inaugural workshop, gaining invaluable insights into essential prerequisites and clarifications pertinent to project implementation. Leveraging this newfound knowledge, the committee identified departmental SPOCs, thus streamlining communication channels and enhancing project efficiency.

August: Revision of the Action Plan for the Steering Committee
As August dawned, the project entered a phase of refinement, culminating in the finalization of the institutional core committee and the identification of non-teaching staff and student representatives. Building upon insights gleaned from workshop outcomes, the action plan underwent significant revisions, ensuring its adaptability to real-time challenges, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

September: Contribution to the Updated Version of Internationally Open Teaching Rubric
September witnessed the culmination of collective efforts as stakeholders contributed to the completion of the updated teaching rubric. Faculty SPOCs and dedicated students played a pivotal role in refining the rubric's content, thus enriching its effectiveness in promoting internationalization. Forwarded for feedback, the rubric stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence in education.

October: Department-Level Internationalization
October saw the core committee pivot towards departmental-level internationalization efforts, identifying potential areas for collaboration and partnership with esteemed international institutions. Emphasis was placed on fostering synergistic relationships and fortifying existing ties, thereby amplifying our institution's global footprint.

November: Reviews and Setting Project Go at the Institution Level
In November, meticulous reviews and document submissions underscored our commitment to transparency and accountability. Feedback was thoughtfully incorporated, and queries promptly addressed, thus ensuring alignment with project objectives and fostering a culture of collaboration and shared purpose.

December: Preparation and Attendance of 2nd Workshop
The year drew to a close with preparations for and active participation in the second workshop, serving as a platform for the exchange of updated profiles and insights. This culminating event set the stage for further progress, underscoring our unwavering commitment to reimagining internationalization efforts.

Conclusion:
The year 2020 stands as a testament to the collective vision and unwavering dedication of the RISHII project's core committee and stakeholders. Despite formidable challenges, our commitment to reimagining internationalization efforts remained resolute, laying a strong foundation for future endeavors and cementing our institution's position as a beacon of excellence in higher education.
 

Click here to view: NDE Schedule

Online Resources

1. Introduction
St. Aloysius College (Autonomous) recognizes the importance of internationalization in today's globalized world. To align with this vision, a comprehensive strategic plan is proposed to develop and implement strategies for internationalization across all aspects of the institution. This plan aims to identify and address the present disadvantages, leverage opportunities, and tackle challenges effectively.

2. Institutional International Strategy Development

• Identify and Analyze Present Strategic Plans: A thorough analysis will be conducted to identify the advantages and disadvantages of the current strategic plans pertaining to internationalization.
• Peer Team Consultation: A peer team will be formed to provide insights and recommendations for improvement. Their suggestions will be incorporated into the strategic plan.
• Faculty and Stakeholder Involvement: The final draft of the institutional strategy will be presented to the entire faculty and stakeholders for feedback and recommendations.
• Approval Process: Upon incorporating feedback, the final plan will be presented to the management, Mangalore Jesuit Educational Society, for approval.

3. Core Team Formation

• A core team comprising six members will be constituted to develop and implement the action plan for internationalization.
• Action Plan Development: The core team will create an action plan with clear timelines for implementation and review.
• Mechanism for Implementation and Review: A mechanism will be established to monitor and evaluate the progress of the action plan.

4. Stakeholder Consultations

• Formation of Strategy Development Committees: Committees will be formed to facilitate stakeholder consultations and engagement.
• Document Review and Gap Analysis: Existing documents and policies will be reviewed to identify gaps and areas for improvement.
• External Environmental Scan: A thorough analysis of the external environment will be conducted to identify opportunities and threats related to internationalization.
• Stakeholder Surveys and Focus Groups: Surveys and focus group discussions will be conducted to gather feedback and insights from various stakeholders.

5. Pilot Programs and Initiatives

• Pilot programs and initiatives will be launched to test the feasibility and effectiveness of proposed strategies.
• Social Media Promotion Team: A team will be established to promote internationalization initiatives through social media platforms.
• Student Representative Coalition: A coalition of student representatives will be formed to enhance communication and engagement with students.

6. Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement

• Inclusive stakeholder forums, online feedback platforms, and focus group discussions with experts will be organized to ensure diverse perspectives are considered.
• Board Presentation and Approval: The finalized strategic plan will be presented to the board for approval.
• Faculty and Staff Briefings: Faculty and staff members will be briefed on the strategic plan to ensure alignment and understanding.
• Student Group Meetings: Meetings with student groups will be conducted to gather input and ensure student involvement in internationalization efforts.

7. Communication and Updates

• Regular updates and announcements will be made regarding the progress of internationalization initiatives.
• Interactive webinars, Q&A sessions, and online feedback mechanisms will be utilized to facilitate communication and engagement.

(b) International Offices and Academic Services

Strengthening the structure of International Offices is crucial for effective internationalization. This plan outlines strategies to redesign the organization chart, develop performance dashboards, enhance academic services, facilitate collaborations, and promote international opportunities.
1. Development of Internationalization Office (IO) Performance Dashboard:

• Redesign the organization chart of International Offices to streamline functions.
• Establish a Performance Dashboard for general administration, international student plans, admission services, immigration services, institutional ranking, and promotion.

2. Plans for International Students:

• Develop comprehensive plans to attract, support, and retain international students.
• Provide personalized services for admission, immigration, and academic support.
• Enhance institutional ranking through international student recruitment and satisfaction.

3. Plans for Student and Staff Mobility:

• Develop mobility programs for students and staff, including exchange programs, study tours, and internships.
• Identify potential partner institutions for collaboration and mobility programs.
• Promote awareness among students about international opportunities through social media groups, faculty-wise information dissemination, and buddy programs.

4. Curriculum Mapping and Credit Transfer:

• Map curricula to facilitate credit transfer and compatibility with international standards.
• Identify institutes for mobility programs and internships to enhance global competitiveness.
• Improve students' skills and knowledge through international internship opportunities and language development programs.

5. Communication and Awareness:

• Create awareness among students through information booklets, association meetings, and mentorship programs.
• Prioritize communication channels for effective dissemination of internationalization information.
• Draft regulations to prioritize internationalization of the curriculum and communicate faculty-wise details.

6. Faculty and Staff Development:

• Provide training and workshops on internationalization during faculty development programs.
• Introduce a certificate course in Teaching Excellence with a focus on internationalization.
• Establish language labs and special programs for students from vernacular backgrounds and English as a Foreign Language training.

7. Collaborations and Workshops:

• Conduct collaborative workshops with regional institutions to increase preparedness for international mobility.
• Organize intensive training programs and interactions with international experts.
• Depute faculties for workshops involving international experts to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.

8. Multilingual Institutional Material Development:

• Develop institutional materials in multiple languages to cater to diverse audiences.
• Provide induction programs for students at the beginning of the academic year with sessions on internationalization.
• Host internationalization strategy seminars to share best practices and foster collaboration.

(c) International Mobility and Institutional Culture Internationalization
International mobility and the cultivation of an internationalized institutional culture are pivotal for St. Aloysius College's global engagement. This strategic plan outlines comprehensive measures to enhance mobility schemes, foster collaboration, develop a culture of internationalization, and ensure sustained institutional support.
1. Strengthening Mobility Capacities:

• Capacity Building Workshops: Conduct workshops to enhance the skills and knowledge of mobility coordinators.
• Collaboration with International Training Organizations: Partner with training organizations to facilitate professional development.
• Development of Resource Materials: Create guides and materials to support mobility initiatives.
• Regular Evaluation and Feedback: Implement sessions to evaluate and gather feedback on mobility programs.

2. Comprehensive Mobility Regulations:

• Develop regulations to govern mobility programs and ensure compliance through regular audits.
• Stakeholder Consultation: Engage stakeholders in workshops to gather input and ensure alignment with regulations.
• Pilot Implementation: Test regulations through pilot programs before full implementation.

3. Staff Mobility and Research Collaboration:

• Staff Mobility Planning: Conduct workshops to plan and facilitate staff exchanges.
• Joint Research Proposal Development: Organize workshops to foster collaborative research initiatives.
• Establishment of Joint Research Centers: Establish centers or networks for cross-institutional research collaboration.

4. Student Mobility and Internship Opportunities:

• Design Tailored Mobility Programs: Develop programs to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Implement Study Abroad Programs: Establish short-term study programs and internships abroad.
• Post-Mobility Evaluation: Gather feedback from students to improve and refine mobility initiatives.

5. Visibility and Communication:

• Develop a Visibility Policy Document: Outline strategies for promoting the institution globally.
• Social Media Campaigns: Utilize social media platforms for global outreach and engagement.
• Communication Guidelines: Establish guidelines for effective communication within mobility regulations.

6. Collaboration and Partnerships:

• Establish Partnership Agreements: Form agreements with partner institutions for collaboration.
• Joint Workshops and Conferences: Organize collaborative events to facilitate knowledge exchange.
• Periodic Assessment and Improvement: Conduct regular assessments to refine and enhance collaboration practices.

7. Sustainability and Institutional Integration:

• Integration into Institutional Policies: Embed internationalization into the institution's policies and practices.
• Alumni Engagement: Involve alumni in supporting long-term internationalization efforts.
• Continuous Monitoring: Establish mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure sustainability.

(d) Modernization of Learning, Teaching, and Assessment Programs
Modernizing learning, teaching, and assessment programs is essential for fostering student-centered, competency-based education with a global perspective. This strategic plan outlines initiatives to promote curriculum internationalization, integrate global perspectives, and enhance teaching methodologies.
1. Curriculum Internationalization:

• Curriculum Mapping: Map curricula to identify opportunities for internationalization and align learning outcomes with global competencies.
• Integration of Global Perspectives: Infuse courses with global perspectives, diverse cultural contexts, and international case studies.
• Development of International Elective Courses: Offer specialized courses that explore global issues, cultures, and languages.
• Study Abroad Programs: Implement study abroad programs to provide immersive learning experiences and cultural exchanges.

2. Capacity Building Workshops:

• Workshop for Directive and Academic Bodies: Organize workshops to introduce competency-based approaches to internationalization, featuring guest speakers and discussions on best practices.
• Training Sessions for Faculty: Conduct training sessions to equip faculty with skills and resources for designing competency-based curricula aligned with international standards.
• Collaborative Curriculum Design Workshops: Facilitate interdisciplinary workshops where faculty collaborate to redesign courses with a competency-based approach.

3. Internationalization Task Force:

• Establish a task force comprising representatives from directive bodies, academic bodies, and students to oversee and promote internationalization efforts.
• Collaborative Training Workshops: Conduct workshops on collaborative teaching methodologies, virtual collaboration tools, and effective communication strategies in blended learning environments.

4. Subject Alignment and Technology Integration:

• Subject Alignment Sessions: Facilitate sessions for teachers to align learning outcomes across subjects and identify opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Technology Integration Sessions: Provide training on integrating technology into subject delivery, including virtual labs, simulations, and learning management systems.

5. Peer Observation Program and Language Internships:

• Peer Observation Program: Implement a program for peer observation and feedback to enhance teaching effectiveness and share best practices.
• International Language Internships: Facilitate language internships abroad and provide support for students participating in immersive language learning experiences.

6. Language Learning Initiatives:

• Language Learning Technology Platforms: Implement technology platforms for language learning, including language apps, virtual labs, and interactive software.
• Cultural and Language Events: Host events featuring cultural immersion activities, guest lectures in different languages, and language-related workshops.

(e) Synergies with the Territorial Context 
St. Aloysius College (Autonomous) recognizes the importance of strengthening interactions and cooperation with external stakeholders to foster a dynamic ecosystem that benefits both the institution and the broader community. This strategic plan outlines initiatives aimed at establishing partnerships, promoting entrepreneurship, facilitating knowledge exchange, engaging with the local community, fostering collaborative research, and enhancing international visibility.
1. Establishing Partnerships and Advisory Boards:

• Establish a Global Advisory Board comprising industry experts and thought leaders to provide strategic guidance.
• Forge International Partnerships with universities, organizations, and industry players to facilitate collaborative initiatives and knowledge exchange.
• Host International Conferences and Events to showcase the institution's expertise and foster networking opportunities.

2. Promoting Entrepreneurship and Innovation:

• Organize Entrepreneurship Training Programs to equip students and faculty with the skills and resources to launch innovative ventures.
• Host International Entrepreneurship Workshops and Seminars to foster a culture of innovation and global entrepreneurship.
• Establish Incubation and Support Mechanisms to nurture and support startup ventures.

3. Facilitating Knowledge Exchange and Collaboration:

• Organize International Knowledge Exchange Forums to facilitate interdisciplinary discussions and knowledge sharing.
• Host Industry-Academia Networking Events to foster collaborations and bridge academia-industry gaps.
• Conduct Community Outreach Programs to engage with local stakeholders and address societal needs through collaborative projects.

4. Creating Vibrant Community Spaces:

• Establish Community Forums to facilitate dialogue and collaboration between the university and the broader community.
• Organize Collaborative Events with Local Stakeholders to promote inclusivity and interdisciplinary discussions.
• Host Public Lecture Series and Open Campus Days to showcase the institution's expertise and engage with the community.

5. Enhancing Collaborative Research and Engagement:

• Conduct Collaborative Research Workshops to foster partnerships and address real-world challenges.
• Provide Research Grant Opportunities for Civil Society Organizations to promote community involvement in research endeavors.
• Establish Research Advisory Panels to facilitate dialogue and partnerships between academia and civil society.

6. Promoting Multiculturalism and Dialogue:

• Organize Community Engagement Workshops to promote cultural understanding and dialogue.
• Facilitate Knowledge Exchange Forums and Internship Programs to bridge academic expertise with community perspectives.
• Provide Multilingual Communication Training to foster effective communication across diverse cultures.

7. Fostering Innovation and Intellectual Property:

• Organize Intellectual Property Workshops and establish a Technology Transfer Office to support innovation and commercialization.
• Implement Research Incentive Programs to encourage creativity and foster a culture of innovation.
• Foster Collaborative Innovation Projects with Industry to leverage academic expertise and industry insights.

8. Enhancing International Visibility:

• Utilize Social Media and Online Presence to showcase research results and engage with a global audience.
• Promote Open Access Publications and Collaborative Research Partnerships to enhance visibility and dissemination.
• Host International Research Conferences, Symposia, and Collaborative Publications to showcase the institution's research achievements.

(f) Visibility in Internationalization 
St. Aloysius College (Autonomous) aims to significantly elevate its international visibility and academic influence through strategic initiatives focused on collaborative research, artistic exchange, and enhanced publication practices. This strategic plan outlines initiatives to achieve greater participation in open calls for publications, foster collaborative partnerships, increase co-authored publications, and enhance recognition on the global academic stage.
1. Leveraging Social Media and Online Presence:

• Enhance Social Media and Online Presence to showcase research results, initiatives, and achievements to a global audience.
• Promote Open Access Publications and Online Repositories to increase accessibility and dissemination of research findings.
• Foster Collaborative Research Partnerships with international institutions to broaden research networks and visibility.

2. Encouraging International Collaborations:

• Facilitate International Collaborative Publications to promote interdisciplinary research and global perspectives.
• Organize Artistic and Cultural Exchange Programs to foster collaboration and cultural understanding.
• Host International Research Symposia to showcase research excellence and promote knowledge exchange.
• Establish Joint Artistic and Scientific Committees to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

3. Promoting Co-authored Publications:

• Conduct Collaborative Research Workshops and Joint Writing Retreats to encourage collaboration among researchers.
• Coordinate Research Projects with partner universities to address global challenges and enhance academic impact.
• Implement Joint Authorship Policies to promote equitable collaboration and enhance publication opportunities.

4. Enhancing International Co-authorship:

• Provide Recognition and Awards for International Collaboration to incentivize and recognize successful collaborative efforts.
• Allocate Funding for International Collaborative Research to support joint projects and initiatives.
• Establish Joint Research Networks to facilitate ongoing collaboration and exchange of expertise.
• Organize International Collaboration Seminars to foster networking and knowledge exchange among researchers.

(g) Sustainability in Internationalization 
St. Aloysius College (Autonomous) is committed to ensuring the sustainability of its internationalization efforts through strategic planning, efficient resource utilization, proactive project enhancement, and continuous improvement. This strategic plan outlines initiatives aimed at institutionalizing collaborative platforms, optimizing resource utilization, enhancing project outcomes, and establishing a framework for sustained success.
1. Institutionalizing Collaborative Platforms:

• Establishing Long-Term Partnership Agreements with international institutions to ensure enduring collaborations.
• Institutionalize International Collaborative Platforms to facilitate ongoing exchange and collaboration.

2. Integration of Sustainable Practices:

• Integrate Sustainable Practices in Curriculum by incorporating global perspectives and sustainability themes into course content.
• Provide Continuous Professional Development on Internationalization for faculty to enhance their understanding and implementation of sustainable practices.

3. Efficient Resource Utilization:

• Establish a Global Affairs Office to centralize and streamline internationalization efforts.
• Create an Endowment Fund for Internationalization to ensure sustained financial support for international initiatives.

4. Project Enhancement and Extension:

• Conduct Periodic Review and Evaluation of internationalization initiatives to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
• Engage Alumni in Internationalization through mentorship programs and involvement in ongoing projects.
• Conduct Research on Emerging Trends in internationalization to stay abreast of developments and adapt strategies accordingly.
• Implement a Dynamic Funding Model that allows for flexible allocation of resources based on evolving needs and priorities.

5. Continuous Improvement:

• Establish a Continuous Improvement Committee to oversee and drive ongoing enhancements in internationalization efforts.
• Offer Internationalization Research Scholarships to encourage faculty and students to contribute to the field.
• Implement a Flexible Funding Allocation Model that allows for agile resource allocation in response to changing circumstances and priorities.

(h) Financial Management in Internationalization 
St. Aloysius College (Autonomous) aims to optimize financial management structures to ensure the successful execution of international projects. This strategic plan outlines initiatives to establish dedicated offices, enhance financial reporting systems, build capacity, ensure regulatory compliance, improve audit management, and attain external funding.
1. Establishment of Dedicated International Projects Office:

• Establish a Dedicated International Projects Office to centralize and streamline management of international initiatives.
• Implement Robust Financial Reporting Systems to ensure transparent and efficient financial management.
• Conduct Capacity Building for Financial Management to equip staff with necessary skills and knowledge.
• Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Financial Success to track and evaluate financial performance.

2. Improved Information Flow and Coordination:

• Implement Integrated Financial Software to facilitate seamless communication between departments.
• Conduct Regular Cross-Departmental Training Sessions to enhance collaboration and understanding.
• Establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent financial practices.
• Hold Joint Strategic Planning Sessions to align financial goals with institutional objectives.

3. Regulatory Compliance and Legal Standards:

• Conduct Regulatory Compliance Workshops to ensure adherence to national legislation and funding program rules.
• Establish a Compliance Monitoring System to track compliance efforts.
• Provide Continuous Training on Funding Program Rules to staff involved in project management.
• Offer Dedicated Legal and Financial Advisory Support to navigate complex regulatory frameworks.

4. Streamlined Audit Management:

• Implement Integrated Financial Software for streamlined audit processes and improved budget tracking.
• Establish a Digital Archive and Documentation System for organized and accessible financial records.
• Implement Cost Control Centers and Budget Tracking mechanisms for efficient resource allocation.
• Provide Training on Financial Tools and Procedures to ensure staff proficiency.

5. Evolved Financial Management Structure:

• Conduct Cross-Departmental Training Programs to enhance collaboration and understanding of financial processes.
• Establishment of Financial Oversight Committees to ensure accountability and transparency.
• Establish Regular Communication Channels for effective information sharing.
• Develop Performance Evaluation Metrics to assess the effectiveness of financial management efforts.

6. Attainment of External Fundings:

• Diversify Funding Sources to increase financial resilience and support strategic initiatives.
• Offer Grant Writing Workshops and Training to staff to enhance proposal development skills.
• Establish Strategic Partnerships with Funding Agencies to access new funding opportunities and strengthen grant applications.

Strategic Plan