The Higher Education Review

Colleges offering performing arts courses can profoundly influence society by promoting inclusiveness and ongoing educational innovation. By nurturing creativity within a diverse student body, these institutions cultivate unique perspectives and talents, enhancing cultural enrichment and social consistency. Innovative teaching methods in the arts foster critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and community engagement.

This transformative impact goes beyond personal development, driving societal change through the powerful expression of diverse narratives and the promotion of cultural understanding and unity. Sister Nivedita University (SNU) embodies this vision, aiming to transform society through its inclusive and innovative approach to education, fueled by creativity.

Founded in 2017, SNU honors the legacy of Sister Nivedita – the Irish teacher, author, social activist, school-founder and a disciple of Swami Vivekananda, who devout her life for the people of Kolkata and India. Inspired by the global admiration for her work, SNU was conceived to commemorate her contributions to Bengal.

The university, supported by its Chancellor - Satyam Roychowdhury, began its academic journey in 2018, marking a new era in West Bengal's higher education with a focus on education and social reform.

Enhancing Fine Visual & Performing Arts
Sister Nivedita University (SNU) has made significant strides in Fine Visual and Performing Arts, becoming a leading institution for creative arts education in West Bengal. “Our Fine Arts and Performing Arts department is acclaimed for its outstanding education and creative talent development. Recently honored at an education summit for its excellence, the department’s impact and accomplishments were highlighted.

From an initial cohort of just four students, we have grown to nearly 200, showcasing our dedication to cultivating creativity and artistic expression. The Performing Arts department, with a focus on quality intake, prioritizes practical training and real-world experience,

effectively preparing our students for successful careers in the arts industry,” says Sanjay Sen Gupta, Associate Professor & Head of the Department of Fine Arts and Design at Sister Nivedita University.

Furthermore, one of the major challenges for higher education institutions worldwide is preparing students for the industry. SNU tackles this through its robust Training and Placement Cell, which bridges academia and industry. By integrating internships and industry projects into its curriculum, SNU ensures students gain hands-on experience and practical skills valued by employers. Affiliated with the Techno India Group, SNU enhances career prospects with its extensive network, providing ample opportunities for internships, industry projects, and job placements through initiatives like Campus to Corporate.


Group of HODs

SNU offers a diverse range of courses designed to meet the evolving needs of the industry and academia. The university’s curriculum is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing outcome-based education. The approach ensures the courses being designed with clear objectives and outcomes, preparing students for successful careers in their chosen fields.

Moreover, SNU boasts a highly qualified and experienced faculty, blending academic and industry expertise. Faculty members are chosen based on stringent criteria, including UGC qualifications, PhD degrees, and extensive teaching and industry experience, ensuring students receive top-tier education and guidance.

The Fine Arts and Performing Arts departments feature some of the country's most renowned faculty, including eminent artists, designers, performers, scholars, researchers, and industry professionals. Notable professors of practice, like Abhishek Mahapatra, bridge the gap between academia and industry by enriching the learning experience.

SNU's collaboration with Bradley University on women empowerment and entrepreneurship training is a prime example of its commitment to innovation and global collaboration.

The university provides digital training and financial support to budding entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business.

The university’s involvement in major events, such as the International Kolkata Book Fair and various national and international conferences, workshops, seminars, and more, showcases its commitment to providing students with real-world experience and exposure. These initiatives, coupled with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and continuous up-gradation of skills, ensure that SNU remains at the forefront of higher education in India.

Supporting Meritorious Students
Scholarships are a vital component of SNU's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. The university offers a range of scholarships to support meritorious students and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Scholarships motivate and reward high-achieving students, while also providing financial assistance to those in need, enabling them to pursue their academic goals without financial constraints.

SNU supports various scholarships, including those offered by the state and central governments. The university also provides its own scholarships, such as the Chancellor’s Scholarship and the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship. Additionally, students can avail the state scholarship and the student credit card, further easing their financial burden.

Looking ahead, SNU is committed to continuous innovation and improvement in its pedagogy and infrastructure. The university has its own student engagement portal SNU Chronicle, a digital radio station named SNU Radio Live and a digital TV called SNU Reel. It is actively involved in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation through its dedicated innovation cell, Udyog. This cell supports students with entrepreneurial aspirations, providing them with the resources and guidance needed to turn their ideas into successful ventures.

In conclusion, Sister Nivedita University stands as a tribute to the remarkable legacy of Sister Nivedita, embodying her values of education, social reform, and empowerment. With its innovative approach to education, commitment to accessibility, and focus on holistic development, SNU is shaping the future of higher education in India. The university's unique blend of academic excellence, industry collaboration, and state-of-the-art infrastructure ensures that students are well-prepared for successful and fulfilling careers.