Symbiosis International University Appoints Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar as Chancellor

Symbiosis International (Deemed University) (SIU) has announced the appointment of Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar as its Chancellor, marking a significant leadership transition for one of India's most prominent multidisciplinary institutions. The appointment underscores the university's commitment to sustaining academic excellence while advancing its vision for innovation, internationalisation, and student-centred education.

Having dedicated over three decades to the Symbiosis ecosystem, Dr. Yeravdekar steps into the role after serving as Pro Chancellor, where she played a central role in shaping the university's academic direction and expanding its global footprint.

A Leadership Journey Rooted in Institutional Growth

Dr. Yeravdekar's association with Symbiosis International University spans more than 31 years, during which she has been instrumental in transforming the institution into a globally recognised centre for higher learning.

Throughout her tenure, she has contributed to strengthening academic governance, introducing multidisciplinary educational initiatives, promoting research excellence, and building meaningful collaborations with universities and institutions across the world. Her leadership has also supported the university's efforts to align its academic offerings with evolving global education standards and industry expectations.

Her appointment as Chancellor reflects both continuity in leadership and confidence in her ability to guide the university through the next phase of institutional growth.

Advancing Internationalisation and Academic Excellence

One of the defining aspects of Dr. Yeravdekar's leadership has been her strong focus on internationalisation in higher education. She has consistently championed initiatives that encourage global academic partnerships, faculty and student exchange programmes, collaborative research, and cross-cultural learning experiences.

Her academic credentials further reinforce this vision. Dr. Yeravdekar earned her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from Symbiosis International University, with research centred on the Internationalisation of Higher Education in India. Her scholarly work reflects a deep understanding of how global engagement can strengthen institutional quality while preparing students for increasingly interconnected professional environments.

As Chancellor, she is expected to continue driving initiatives that promote innovation, interdisciplinary learning, research-led education, and international collaboration.

Building on a Legacy of Multidisciplinary Education

Over the years, Symbiosis International University has evolved into one of India's leading multidisciplinary universities, offering programmes across management, law, engineering, health sciences, architecture, design, humanities, media and communication, computer studies, and several other disciplines.

Dr. Yeravdekar has been closely associated with many of these developments, contributing to curriculum innovation, institutional expansion, and the strengthening of academic quality frameworks. Her leadership has also helped foster an educational environment that balances academic rigour with industry relevance and global perspectives.

With her appointment as Chancellor, the university is expected to further strengthen its position as a preferred destination for students seeking internationally aligned, multidisciplinary education.

About Symbiosis International University

Established in 1971 by Prof. Dr. S. B. Mujumdar, Symbiosis International (Deemed University) has built a strong reputation as one of India's leading higher education institutions. Widely recognised as a "home away from home" for international students, the university has cultivated a multicultural academic ecosystem that promotes diversity, innovation, and global engagement.

Today, SIU operates campuses across India and Dubai, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes in a wide range of disciplines. The university holds Category-I status from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and has been accredited with an A++ Grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), reflecting its commitment to quality education, research excellence, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration.

Looking Ahead

Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar's appointment comes at a time when higher education institutions worldwide are adapting to changing learner expectations, technological transformation, and increasing international competition. Her extensive administrative experience and longstanding association with Symbiosis place her in a strong position to steer the university through this evolving landscape.

As SIU continues to invest in research, innovation, interdisciplinary education, and global partnerships, the new leadership is expected to further strengthen the institution's reputation as a globally connected university committed to preparing future-ready graduates.

Editor's Note

Leadership appointments at universities are not merely ceremonial milestones—they often define the strategic direction of institutions for years to come. Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar's elevation to Chancellor represents a rare blend of continuity and institutional memory, offering Symbiosis International University the advantage of experienced leadership during a period of rapid transformation in higher education.

As universities increasingly prioritise international collaboration, interdisciplinary research, digital innovation, and graduate employability, leaders with a deep understanding of both academic governance and global education trends become indispensable. Dr. Yeravdekar's longstanding contribution to internationalisation and institutional development positions SIU to strengthen its role not only within India's higher education ecosystem but also as an increasingly influential global academic institution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who has been appointed as the new Chancellor of Symbiosis International University?

Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar has been appointed as the new Chancellor of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), succeeding her long tenure as Pro Chancellor.

2. Who is Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar?

Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar is a distinguished academic leader who has been associated with Symbiosis International University for over 31 years. She has played a pivotal role in the institution's academic growth, international collaborations, and multidisciplinary expansion.

3. What was Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar's previous role at SIU?

Before becoming Chancellor, Dr. Yeravdekar served as the Pro Chancellor of Symbiosis International University, where she contributed significantly to academic planning, institutional development, and global engagement.

4. What are Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar's academic qualifications?

Dr. Yeravdekar holds a Ph.D. from Symbiosis International University. Her doctoral research focused on the internationalisation of higher education in India.

5. Why is Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar's appointment significant?

Her appointment represents leadership continuity at SIU and reinforces the university's focus on academic excellence, research, innovation, and strengthening international partnerships.

6. What is Symbiosis International University known for?

Symbiosis International University is one of India's leading multidisciplinary universities, offering programmes in management, law, engineering, health sciences, humanities, media, architecture, design, and other disciplines. It is recognised for its multicultural learning environment and global outlook.

7. When was Symbiosis International University established?

Symbiosis International University was established in 1971 by Prof. Dr. S. B. Mujumdar to promote quality higher education and foster cultural understanding among students from India and abroad.

8. Where are the campuses of Symbiosis International University located?

SIU has multiple campuses across India and also operates an international campus in Dubai, offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes.

9. What accreditations does Symbiosis International University hold?

The university has been granted Category-I status by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is accredited with an A++ Grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

10. What can be expected under Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar's leadership?

The university is expected to further strengthen its emphasis on multidisciplinary education, research excellence, innovation, digital transformation, global partnerships, and student-centric learning.

11. How has Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar contributed to internationalisation in higher education?

She has championed global collaborations, student and faculty exchange programmes, international research partnerships, and initiatives that enhance the global competitiveness of Indian higher education.

12. What does this leadership change mean for students and faculty?

The appointment is expected to provide strategic continuity while encouraging innovation, expanding global opportunities, strengthening research initiatives, and enhancing the overall academic experience for students and faculty alike.