Interview with Dr. Surendra Nath Sinha | Vice Chancellor, Bihar University of Health Sciences

In a candid and inspiring conversation with Education Post, Dr. (Prof.) Surendra Nath Sinha, Vice Chancellor of Bihar University of Health Sciences, reflects on his distinguished journey from a passionate teacher to a transformative administrator. With decades of experience across Patna, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur medical colleges, he shares how empathy, discipline, and a deep-rooted commitment to students shaped his leadership. He also discusses Bihar’s post-COVID healthcare evolution, the state’s success in tackling encephalitis, and offers a heartfelt message to future doctors and educators: serve with compassion and purpose.

Q: You have spent decades in the medical academic field, serving as Principal at both Patna Medical College and Darbhanga Medical College. Since 2022, you’ve been serving as the Vice Chancellor of Bihar University of Health Sciences. How has this journey been for you?

It has been an immensely satisfying journey. From the beginning, even during my MD in 1981, I was deeply inclined toward teaching. That passion led me into academic medicine. I started teaching during my post-graduate studies and never looked back. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working at several institutions including Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, and Patna Medical Colleges — first as a teacher, then as Principal. Even after retiring from government service, I continued teaching in private medical colleges like the one in Sasaram, where I served for three years as Principal and Professor.

Q: From teacher to Vice Chancellor — what were the most challenging and rewarding aspects of this remarkable journey?

One of the key challenges was maintaining academic discipline and ensuring consistent, quality teaching. Organizing students, streamlining classroom instruction — these require constant attention and effort. But the rewarding part was seeing real improvements take shape wherever I worked. At Darbhanga Medical College, we improved hostel facilities, upgraded lecture theatres, and enhanced teaching methodologies. We also succeeded in getting a new girls' hostel constructed, which was especially beneficial for postgraduate students. These improvements were well appreciated by both students and faculty, and I’m proud of the progress we made with the support of the government.

Q: Was there a defining moment when you felt, “I’ve chosen the right path”?

Yes, many times. But most memorably, when students would approach me not just with respect, but with warmth and affection — treating me more like a mentor than a strict authority figure. Those relationships are deeply meaningful. I’ve always believed that a teacher should be approachable. I encourage my colleagues to keep students close, motivate them, and guide them. That human connection makes a lasting impact on education.

Q: Rising through the ranks to such a high administrative role must have come with significant stress. How did you handle pressure?

Naturally, working with young students comes with occasional stress. They are still learning, still maturing — and sometimes they make mistakes. But I’ve always believed in using understanding and empathy over punishment. A calm, respectful conversation can solve more than harsh discipline. In my experience, even the most mischievous students respond positively when approached with care and respect.

Q: If you hadn’t chosen the medical profession, what would you be doing today?

I would have pursued social service. I’ve always been drawn to helping others. Even when I was Principal, I spent the entire day at the hospital, fully involved in patient care. The sense of purpose and joy that comes from serving people is incomparable.

Q: Post-COVID-19, research and innovation have become vital components of the healthcare sector. What role is Bihar University of Health Sciences (BUHS) playing in this new landscape?

BUHS, under the leadership and vision of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar, has taken meaningful strides in fostering research and diagnostics across its affiliated colleges. Institutions like PMCH, BMCH, and Muzaffarpur Medical College now have well-equipped testing and research infrastructure. I must commend the Bihar Government for its exceptional work — for instance, in completely controlling encephalitis outbreaks in Muzaffarpur. There was a time when seasonal encephalitis linked to lychee fruit was a recurring issue. This year, not a single case was reported. That’s a remarkable achievement, and full credit goes to the government’s proactive response and public health strategies.

Q: Finally, any message for aspiring medical students and healthcare educators?

Stay committed, stay compassionate. Whether you’re teaching, researching, or treating —remember that healthcare is a service. Your dedication directly shapes lives. Focus on quality, humanity, and purpose in every step of your journey.