Could you tell us about yourself and your professional journey?
I am Prof. (Dr.) Rajiv Mishra, an academic leader and strategist with more than 25 years of experience in higher education, hospitality, and tourism. My career began in the hospitality sector, working with some of India’s finest institutions like The Leela Palace, before moving into academia with roles at Mangalore University, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), and later Galgotias University, where I currently serve as Dean & Professor. Over the years, I have contributed to curriculum design, accreditation processes, global alliances, and digital learning initiatives, while always keeping student success at the core.
How does your work or service contribute to society?
Education is the foundation of progress, and my work has always been about building institutions that shape responsible, skilled, and future-ready professionals. Through curriculum innovation, international collaborations, and quality assurance, I’ve aimed to uplift academic standards, making education both globally competitive and socially relevant. By reforming programs in hospitality and tourism, I have also helped bridge academia and industry, empowering students with employable skills and global exposure.
What makes your approach unique or different from others in your field?
What sets my approach apart is the blend of academic rigor with real-world applicability. I focus on holistic student development—beyond textbooks and exams. My leadership integrates research, accreditation frameworks, and global partnerships, ensuring institutions under my guidance don’t just excel locally but also stand tall in global rankings. I also strongly advocate for digital learning and innovation, which has allowed us to adapt to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic while keeping education inclusive and effective.
What is your vision for the future and the mission that drives you?
My vision is to create globally benchmarked universities that not only rank high on scales of excellence but also prepare students as ethical leaders and innovators. The mission driving me is to transform education into a catalyst for societal change, by linking academic excellence with sustainability, inclusivity, and employability. I want to see institutions in India emerge as true global powerhouses in knowledge and research.
What are some of your key achievements or milestones in this industry?
Some of the proudest milestones include:
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Leading Galgotias University’s Hospitality School to become the only Indian institute to achieve QS I-GAUGE Platinum (250/250).
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Securing a place among the CEOWORLD Top-50 Global Hospitality Schools (2023–2025).
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Ranking No.1 in India by leading agencies such as Edu World and India Today (2025).
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Forging prestigious international partnerships with HIS (Malaysia), IAO (USA), and AHLEI (USA).
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Authoring and peer-reviewing over 50 instructional books and manuals to support students and educators.
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Being honored with multiple awards including the Educational Excellence Award (2005) and recognition from The Economic Times & Ministry of Tourism.
What keeps you motivated and driven in your work?
The growth of students is my biggest motivator. Every time I see a student succeed in their career, it reinforces my belief in education as a life-transforming force. The recognition of institutions I’ve led on global platforms also fuels my drive to continue innovating and setting higher benchmarks.
What are your hobbies, passions, or interests beyond your profession?
Beyond academia, I have a passion for research, writing, and continuous learning. I also take great interest in exploring cultural tourism and heritage, which often inspires my professional work. Networking with academic peers globally and contributing to international editorial boards also enrich my perspectives and keep me engaged beyond classroom walls.
What advice would you like to share with our readers for growth and success in life?
Success begins with discipline, consistency, and an openness to learning. My advice is to embrace lifelong learning, stay adaptable, and cultivate global perspectives. Focus not just on academic achievement but also on building character, compassion, and creativity. Always remember: education is not merely about securing a career—it is about shaping lives and contributing to the greater good of society.
