‘Can't think of any postgraduate who hasn't been absorbed into some industry by end of course': asst prof at SPPU's Department of Foreign Languages
At the Department of Foreign Languages in Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), learning a new language is no longer just a leisurely pursuit. Over the years, the department has seen a shift in its student profile – from hobbyists to working professionals, students to senior citizens, all looking to boost their employability and global mobility.
'The demand keeps changing – some years it's one language, other years it's another,' said Dr Nandita Wagle, Assistant Professor, who has been teaching French and is associated with the department since 2013. 'During admissions, especially after Class 10 or 12, nearly all languages see demand, except perhaps Russian. However, in Pune, French, German, and Japanese continue to draw the most interest,' she added.
The diversity of the department's student body reflects its growing relevance. Wagle mentioned that while most of those undergoing the various courses are students, they also have a substantial number of working professionals; in fact, many of the learners are above 50.
'Most professionals join because they view the course as an opportunity to enhance or even reshape their careers,' she said.
In 1995, while working with Datapro Infoworld after completing his Computer Engineering from Pune Institute of Computer Technology (PICT), Pramod Karanjkar enrolled in the department's Japanese language part-time course. 'I was fortunate to be taught by Dr Hari Damale Sensei, who not only taught us the language but also shared his cultural experiences from Japan. He helped us understand the nuances of the language and the values behind it,' Karanjkar said.
During his course, he was offered a position as a Bilingual Engineer in the Japan-focused division of Datamatics Ltd. 'Within six months, I was interacting with a Japanese client who visited India. Soon after, I flew to Japan for a new project. The education I received, both language and culture, helped me take that leap. I eventually got the opportunity to lead a dedicated Japan Offshore Development Centre in Pune,' he added.
In the same batch as Karanjkar was Dattatray Sadashiv Warunkar, then in his 40s, who completed all three levels of the Japanese course between 1997 and 1999. He also credited Damale's teaching for shaping his understanding of the Japanese language and values. 'We got the chance to interact with many native Japanese speakers who visited the department. Through conversations with them, I learned so much about their discipline, dedication, humility, and above all, their love for their country. These are qualities I think Indian citizens can benefit from adopting,' he said.
Warunkar went on to serve as Vice President of the Japanese Language Teachers' Association of Pune (JALTAP) for 15 years after completing the course. He fondly recalled how being in the classroom with younger students gave him a fresh outlook on life. 'I loved talking with them. They had so much energy and joy. It inspired me to take life lightly, to laugh more, and live happily. I learned as much from the students around me as I did from the curriculum,' he added.
The department has adapted its curriculum and teaching methods in step with changing times. 'Our courses are updated regularly,' Wagle said, adding that 'Post-Covid, many classes moved online. We now run hybrid batches. Faculty members are trained in digital teaching tools utilising smart boards, online textbooks, and other resources. Students also have the option of choosing between paper and e-book formats.'
She explained that language education today is deeply connected with real-world career needs. 'Earlier, people came to learn a language out of cultural interest. Today, it's seen as a skill that adds value to any career path,' she said, adding that 'for many, it opens doors to opportunities abroad, or adds a global edge to their current profession.'
'Teaching and translation are traditional options, but many also work in management, localisation, verification services, or with embassies and consulates,' Wagle further said. 'With the way the economy has opened up, language learners can find employment in a variety of roles. I can't think of a single postgraduate who hasn't been absorbed into some industry or the other by the end of the course,' she added.
(Kavyaa Masurkar is an intern with The Indian Express)
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