In a significant move, Gujarat Technological University (GTU) has appointed Dr. Rajul Gajjar as its first woman Chancellor, shortly after Gujarat University set a precedent with the appointment of a woman in the same role. A respected name in the world of engineering and education, Dr. Gajjar previously served as the Principal of the prestigious L.D. Engineering College and Vishwakarma Engineering College.
Her extensive experience isn’t limited to academic leadership. Dr. Gajjar had a brief stint as the in-charge Vice-Chancellor of GTU from June 1, 2016, to December 30, 2016, and has also been a revered professor in the Department of Applied Mechanics. Interestingly, her appointment as the Chancellor has come ahead of her scheduled retirement on October 31.
With a career spanning 38 years in the engineering field, Dr. Gajjar's credentials are exemplary. An alumna of LD College of Engineering for both her undergraduate and postgraduate studies, she procured her Doctorate in Structural Disasters from MS University, Baroda. A prolific scholar, she boasts of more than 66 published national and international research papers, has authored four books, and holds three patents. In recognition of her contributions, she had been associated with the Technical Education Commission as Joint Director.
Further testament to her dedication to the field is her guidance of over 30 postgraduate students and eight doctoral candidates. Additionally, Dr. Gajjar has spearheaded 38 high-profile projects throughout her career. Her commitment to driving excellence in various facets of engineering education, from industry collaborations to research innovation, had led to her appointment as the first Dean of GTU, followed by her role as Director Research at GTU.
