With the unveiling of National Education Policy 2020, a significant change was made to take into consideration the rapidly developing advanced technology, particularly with regard to pharmacy education, since the nation is becoming the world leader in pharmaceutical exports in addition to its rapidly expanding domestic market.
Amidst these dialogues stands C. L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, a hotspot of excellence in pharmaceutical learning. Renowned for its commitment to academic rigor, innovation, and ethical practice, this institution emerges as a welcome institute that is slowly and steadily converting budding pharma enthusiasts into leaders of tomorrow.
C L Baid Metha College Of Pharmacy in a Nutshell
Started as the first private Pharmacy College established in 1980, with a proud history of 43 years, C L Baid Metha College Of Pharmacy has continually evolved and stands as the most reputed Pharmacy College in Tamilnadu. From their humble beginnings with the Diploma in Pharmacy course in 1980, the college progressed to offer B.Pharm, M.Pharm, Ph.D and the Doctor of Pharmacy courses till date.
The college is owned and managed by Tamilnadu Chemists and Druggists Educational Trust. The management team comprises Mr. Srinivasan R, the Chairman, Haji. A. Anvardeen, the Vice Chairman, Mr. K. K. Selvan, the Executive trustee, Mr. S A Ramesh, the Secretary and Correspondent and Dr. C. N. Nalini, the Principal.
When Academic Insights had an opportunity to interview Dr. Prof. C.N. Nalini, the Principal of the college, spoke on the various aspects of how the institute stands out when compared to its competitors. At first she shared – “Our college distinguishes itself from other pharmacy colleges in Tamil Nadu through key aspects such as excellent infrastructure, experienced faculty, modern laboratories, and spacious classrooms”. “We have been excelling in academics since 1980. Our excellence shall be validated through our students who consistently secure University ranks”, she eventually added to her above statement.
Through the conversation Dr. Nalini also spoke about how the pharma college is completely dedicated to ensuring all their students are well accustomed to the needs of the industry, as a result of the hands-on-training provided, with the onboard sophisticated industry-level machineries and equipments.
One more important distinguishing factor for C L Baid Metha Pharmacy College is through the achievements of its alumni, who occupy esteemed positions across various renowned organizations.
Also, beyond the traditional curriculum, the college places a high priority on giving students the tools they need to succeed in the cutthroat world of the workplace. Accordingly the academic curriculum is supplemented with programs like pharmacovigilance training, medical coding, soft skills training, and communication skills development to make sure graduates are ready for the demands of the real world.
Redefining Industry-Academia Relationships
Known for its collaborations, C L Baid Metha College Of Pharmacy has tie-ups with institutions such as Stanley Medical College Hospital, Gleneagles Global Hospital, and VHS Hospital which in-turn provide internship opportunities for the students. Additionally, collaborations with Fortis Malar and Rela Institute of Medical Sciences contribute to the students’ hospital training.
Furthermore, the college facilitates students’ exposure to the pharmaceutical industry through regular participation in industry training programs with esteemed organizations such as Sai Mirra Innopharm, Fourrts (India) Laboratories, Caplin Point and Soft Gel among others. These initiatives offer invaluable practical insights into the pharmaceutical field, equipping students with firsthand knowledge essential for their future pursuits.
In addition to industry engagement, the college has recently forged a partnership with the renowned Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) to provide internship opportunities for students across both Biological and Chemical Sciences departments. This collaboration serves to augment students’ experiential learning and broaden their horizons within the realms of science and research.
Moreover, the college actively engages in international collaborations, exemplified by its participation in the prestigious Fulbright Program. Originating as a flagship international academic exchange program sponsored by the US government in 1946, the Fulbright Program fosters mutual understanding between the United States and other nations. Noteworthy for its merit-based selection process and academic prestige, the Fulbright Program represents a unique opportunity for students to engage in cross-cultural exchange and academic enrichment. Scheduled for the second time at the college during August-September, the program will feature mentoring by Dr. Ebtesam Ahmed, Pharm.D, M.S. BCMTMS, from St. John’s University College of Pharmacy. Dr. Ahmed will provide guidance and training to students, including a week-long immersive experience in the United States, further enhancing their educational journey.
Research Excellence and Scholarly Engagement
With a dedicated team of 46 faculty members, including four guiding Ph.D. scholars and 21 mentors for M.Pharm students, the institution has fostered a culture of scholarly inquiry. Evidence of this dedication are the nearly 65 doctorates produced since the inception of the Ph.D. program, underscoring the college’s emphasis on cutting-edge research and academic distinction.
Faculty members at the college have garnered recognition for their research endeavors, with 10 patents awarded and five more pending. Their contributions extend to the publication of 15 books, 12 book chapters, and a plethora of research and review papers in prestigious national and international journals. With an overall H Index of 103, reflective of scholarly impact. Additionally, research grants from The Tamilnadu Dr. MGR Medical University further boosted faculty research initiatives.
Financial support is also extended to students and faculty members to participate in national and international conferences and seminars. Recent initiatives include the provision of travel and accommodation allowances to two students for presenting their work at an international conference held in Spain, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to fostering research engagement and scholarly growth.
Dr. (Prof.) C.N. Nalini – Principal
With a rich teaching experience spanning 27 years and an additional two years in industrial roles as an analytical chemist, Dr. Nalini brings a wealth of expertise to her academic and professional endeavors. Prior to her current role, she served as a Pharmacist at Christian Fellowship Hospital, Oddanchatram, and held the position of Senior Assistant Pharmacist at Christian Medical College Hospital, Vellore.
Dr. Nalini’s academic journey is marked by notable achievements, including the completion of her D.Pharm in 1985, B.Pharm in 1992, and M.Pharm in 1997. She was conferred with a Ph.D. by the TamilNadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University in 2010. Best teacher award from The Tamilnadu Dr. MGR Medical University added a pearl to her glory.
Throughout her career, Dr. Nalini has held various significant roles, including membership on the Board of Studies, Research Proposal Screening Committee, Screening Committee for Research Grant, Inspection Committee, and Expert Committee for Pharm D, B.Pharm, and M.Pharm at the TamilNadu Dr. M.G.R Medical University. She also is a member of the doctoral committee for research in various universities, including TNMGRMU. Dr. Nalini’s dedication to academic mentorship is evident in her roles as a guide and co-guide for numerous doctoral students, having supervised over 50 postgraduate students and multiple undergraduate students.
