In a time when educational institutions are increasingly defined by scale and speed, some quietly stand tall through legacy, values, and visionary leadership. One such institution is V. O. Chidambaram College.
Founded in 1951 by Kulapathi A. P. C. Veerabahu, the college was established with a missionary zeal to open the portals of higher education to all, irrespective of caste, creed, or gender. Mr. Kulapathi firmly believed that education is the cornerstone of personal growth and national development. His aspiration was to build an institution that champions human dignity, challenges unjust social structures, and upholds secularism, non-violence, and care for the marginalized. The college strictly upholds the principle of Non-commercialization, ensuring that no capitation is collected for staff appointments or student admission. Secretary Thiru. A.P.C.V. Chockalingam has been upholding this proud legacy of leading this esteemed institution since 1982. Under his visionary leadership, the college is celebrating its 75th year-Platinum Jubilee—this year, marking a significant milestone in its journey of academic excellence.
At the helm today is Dr. C. Veerabahu, the proud grandson of the founder, who upholds the legacy with unwavering dedication. A seasoned educator who began his teaching career in 1997, Dr. Veerabahu was appointed Principal of the college in 2012, 62 years after its founding. Deeply rooted in the family’s educational philosophy, he carries a profound sense of responsibility to advance their vision of “education for all.”
From the Scratch
Raised in a family deeply committed to advancing society through meaningful education, Dr. C. Veerabahu takes immense pride in continuing that tradition. An alumnus of V. O. Chidambaram College, he pursued both his undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Zoology on the very campus he now leads. With a passion for academic advancement, he went on to earn a Ph.D.
Over the course of his academic career, Dr. Veerabahu has authored three books, published 13 research papers in international journals and five in national journals, led two major research projects, and guided two Ph.D. scholars to completion. Whether as a faculty member, Assistant Co-ordinator of the IGNOU Study Centre, or in his current role as Principal, each phase of his journey has reflected a deep commitment to institutional progress and a strong grasp of academic and administrative frameworks.
As the Principal
Stepping into leadership gave Dr. C. Veerabahu the platform to translate vision into action. Over the 13+ years of leading as the principal, he has launched impactful academic, research, and community programs that have significantly elevated the college’s profile.
Among his notable contributions are the introduction of two dedicated scholarships in the founder’s name, one recognizing academic excellence and another designed to foster research aspirations in deserving students. Emphasizing hands-on learning and career readiness, he has established 31 Memoranda of Understanding with institutions and industries. Also, strategic collaborations, such as with IECD, Tiruchirappalli, have expanded vocational course offerings, aligning students with emerging industry needs.
His focus on deepening the research culture has led to a rise in qualified research supervisors, higher-quality publications in both national and international journals, and increased participation in funded projects. Under his guidance, the college secured grants totaling ₹4.75 crore from premier funding bodies including UGC, DST, CSIR, ICSSR, ONGC, NCESS, and TNSCST. These resources have been directed toward infrastructure, research development, and sports facilities.
Notably, during his tenure, the institution retained its NAAC A grade during the third accreditation cycle and rose to an exceptional A++ with a score of 3.66/4 in the fourth cycle (2023), while also having been placed in the 28th position by NIRF India Rankings 2024.
Beyond academics, Dr. Veerabahu has spearheaded several CSR and student welfare efforts, including a breakfast program for girl students, digital literacy campaigns for rural youth, Industry 4.0 training for computer science students, installation of RO water systems, smart interactive panels, and solar infrastructure across campus.
The Road Ahead
Looking toward the next decade, Dr. C. Veerabahu articulates a future for V.O.C. College that blends academic growth with societal impact. His vision is clear: to elevate the institution into a dynamic university offering a diverse range of programs while staying anchored in its founding ideals.
“We are working towards a comprehensive transformation, one that reflects both academic ambition and social responsibility,” he states. Central to this evolution is the development of a vibrant research culture aimed at contributing meaningfully to the economy and to the needs of underserved communities. He credits Thiru A.P.C.V. Chockalingam, the college’s current Secretary, for actively advancing this institutional dream, one first imagined by the founder as a research-driven institution dedicated to public good.
Dr. Veerabahu also emphasizes the importance of building a robust ecosystem that supports innovation and entrepreneurship. Plans are underway to establish incubation centres and strengthen digital infrastructure, providing a platform for students to engage in start-up ventures and applied research. “Our aim is to convert ideas into impact, to create an environment where learning sparks enterprise,” he explains.
Beyond campus walls, the college is also expanding its community-focused initiatives. And ultimately, Dr. Veerabahu’s roadmap envisions an institution that not only delivers academic excellence, but also nurtures socially conscious leaders equipped to drive sustainable development and inclusive growth.
The Inner Compass
Behind the steady leadership of Dr. C. Veerabahu lies a deeply rooted personal philosophy. The simple act of singing bhajans and quiet contemplation offers him a wellspring of inner calm, empowering him to meet challenges with composure and guide others with compassion.
Dr. Veerabahu is an avid listener of thought leaders, such as – eminent scholars, academic strategists, and philanthropists. These engagements, he says, “challenge me to think differently, to innovate not just for performance, but for purpose.”
Equally important to him are the candid conversations he shares with students and colleagues. These informal interactions, often unstructured yet revealing, offer invaluable insights into the evolving needs of the academic community. “Leadership isn’t about directives,” he reflects. “It’s about tuning in, being present, and empowering others to rise.”
For Dr. Veerabahu, the role of Principal transcends office hours. It is a lifelong commitment, one that calls for not only intellectual focus and administrative foresight, but emotional endurance and ethical grounding. In every initiative, conversation, and decision, Dr. Veerabahu embodies the spirit of selfless service. As he guides V.O.C. College into the future, he remains a steady force, anchored in tradition, driven by vision, and inspired
