First Academic Interaction between TAU Pathway Students and University of Leicester Faculty Marks a New Goal
The Apollo University (TAU) distinguished yet another defining step in its global academic journey as students of the 2+1 BEng Computer Science Pathway Programme experienced their first academic interaction with the distinguished faculty and administrators of the University of Leicester (UoL), UK. The event, held at The Apollu University provided the chance for the students to interact with the professors and administrators of University of Leicester online, and was not just an interaction but the beginning of a vibrant cross-continental learning journey that unites the best of both universities.
The session opened with a warm welcome to the professors by setting the tone highlighting how this programme is designed to transform education into a truly borderless experience. Prof. M. Potharaju, Registrar, TAU, then introduced the eminent speakers from UoL, underscoring the importance of such collaborations in preparing students to excel as global professionals.
The highlight of the programme was the address by Professor Henrietta O’Connor, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leicester. Speaking with both warmth and authority, she emphasized the transformative power of education and urged students to embrace this pathway as more than an academic journey—as an opportunity to evolve into future-ready leaders who think globally and act responsibly. Her words reassured both students and parents that the partnership between TAU and UoL is deeply rooted in academic excellence and student success. She took the students through the journey of Leicester by showing the testimonials of the students and their rich culture to accept and accommodate diversity.
Following her, Professor Leena Sodha, Head of the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences at the University of Leicester drew from her expertise in actuarial science and higher education to shed light on the vast opportunities awaiting students through this programme. She inspired the cohort by taking them to the journey of the school where they will be spending one year to combine technical skills with adaptability, curiosity, and confidence—qualities that would allow them to stand out in an increasingly competitive global landscape. Her address left students with a clear sense of the future possibilities this programme could unlock.
The interaction grew even more engaging as Professor Roy Crole, Associate Professor in Computer Science, took the virtual stage. In his detailed overview of the programme, he explained how the curriculum has been designed to balance scrupulous academic training with applied skills. He also described the transition into the third year at Leicester, where students will engage more deeply in specialized modules, collaborative projects, and research opportunities. Professor Crole further shared that he would serve as the Programme Coordinator at the University of Leicester, working closely with Dr. T. Vivekanandhan, Programme Coordinator from The Apollo University, to ensure seamless academic support and mentorship for the cohort. His clarity and enthusiasm reassured students about the structured pathway that lies ahead of them.
In addition to these academic insights, students were also informed that during their course of study the professors will visit the TAU students in Spring Week, featuring interactive games, group activities, and special guest talks. There will also be guest lectures and expert talks from UoL professors in the meantime in AI in Robotics and AI in Space, enriching their overall learning experience during their course of study at TAU.
Adding strength to the occasion, Dr. G. B. Hima Bindu, In-Charge Dean, School of Technology, TAU, was also present, lending her encouragement and recapping the School’s commitment to providing every resource and mentorship needed for the success of the students.
The event concluded with heartfelt thanks extended to the professors from Leicester for their time, guidance, and vision. Students shared that the session not only gave them clarity on their academic roadmap but also filled them with excitement and confidence about their future in the UK. This first academic exchange was symbolizing the promise of a future where TAU students will learn, collaborate, and grow on an international stage.