As Senior Lecturer in the School of Engineering and Technology at CQUni’s Melbourne Campus, Dr Ritesh Chugh is an expert in Information Systems Management. Yet he also has a passion for community, both in and outside CQUniversity. He sees education as the way to bring people together, so much so, that his efforts to introduce Hindi language classes for school children to improve diversity and inclusion, recently earned him a ‘Hero Community Volunteer Award’. Ritesh strongly believes in social goodness and giving back to society, traits that CQUni prides itself upon too.
What do you love most about your role?
The opportunity to transfer tacit knowledge to others vis-à-vis teaching and research! The best aspect of teaching is the ability to inspire students and it is a very satisfying experience to see students succeed. Both teaching and research keep me enthused through a continuous learning cycle.
What was a recent highlight of your life?
The publication of my edited book, titled Harnessing social media as a knowledge management tool.
What is the best thing about CQUni?
It is great to be working in Australia’s largest regional university and to be located in Melbourne, the world’s most liveable city. The combination of a diverse student community, a student-focused learning and teaching environment and friendly staff, makes it a unique holistic experience.
Who has made an impact upon your life? Why?
My mother, who was a school teacher, has ingrained the essential qualities of life in me. She has been my guide throughout my journey thus far and has never faltered in her responsibilities to my family too, giving her undivided attention and love. I am who I am today because of her.
What is a motto or phrase that you live by?
Practice what you preach and if you can’t practice it, don’t preach.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
Encourage everyone, who has the capability, to participate in social goodness. The purpose of social good is to generate value, provide benefits and give back to society. This can be achieved by volunteering, sharing knowledge, becoming a change agent, inspiring others and making a resolution to do social good in the community.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I usually like to spend time with my family but cooking is my nirvana. I don’t like to be disturbed at all while cooking and can conjure magical dishes when the situation demands. However, I haven’t been able to achieve much of nirvana lately.
