Prof Anayath joined as vice-chancellor of the university on 6 July 2017.

In the last three years, Prof Anayath got approval for a unique MTech masters programmes in colour science and engineering. He also resolved all promotion related issues of the teaching and non-teaching employees of the university and created an environment conducive to teaching and research in the university.

Under his leadership, the university received an ‘A’ grade from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in 2017.

About his plans for the university in the next three years, Prof Anayath said, “After strengthening basic facilities and expanding in terms of infrastructure and intake of the university in the first tenure, now I wish to focus on the quality uplift in the second tenure.”

Some of his plans for the second tenure include initiating an annual academic audit system in the university and developing a fully automated administration and examination system in this tenure, since no situation like Covid-19 should affect the teaching-learning process.

He also wants to move to modern digital platforms for all educational purposes to meet every future requirement.

“Overall, I wish to turn the university into a knowledge-driven system where focus is on quality and equity,” he added.

His advice to students? Prof Anayath quoted Gandhi and said, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever”.

He added, “Focus on the future in the present, embrace digital and make virtual into real, which is the only way to sustain and succeed.”

He has another Gandhi quote for the industry: “Be the change you want to see in the world.”

He added, “It is sure the new reality taking place shall be made of complexity, uncertainty at the same time opportunities. To adapt and thrive, organisations must accelerate and become resilient and agile by embracing all the new normal.”