Global Perspectives, Local Impact

Dr. Sonakshi Ruhela

Assistant Professor, (UAE Licensed Psychologist)

Rochester Institute of Technology (Dubai)

When transitioning from India to the UAE, Dr. Sonakshi Ruhela, Assistant Professor at Rochester Institute of Technology and Licensed Psychologist at OPENMINDS Psychiatry, Counselling & Neuroscience Centre observed significant educational, cultural, and systemic differences, particularly in information consumption, evaluation formats, and e-learning practices. She says, “The UAE operates under strict guidelines with robust surveillance bodies overseeing curriculum implementation and conducting periodic quality checks.” A notable aspect is the emphasis on licensing social psychology professionals through the European Professional Practice Exam, ensuring high standards of professional competence. In contrast, while India has a rigorous education system, she believes that it could benefit from stricter regulatory frameworks and streamlined processes. These differences have shaped Dr. Sonakshi’s approach to fostering learning by emphasising adherence to global standards, integrating structured evaluation methods, and leveraging technology for innovative teaching practices. Speaking with TradeFlock, she shares more about her journey and how she is making a difference in the field of education through her innovative work.

How have your experiences in academia, clinical practice, and corporate training shaped your teaching and leadership in higher education?

My diverse background in academia, clinical practice, and corporate training has profoundly shaped my approach to teaching and leadership in higher education. Clinical practice allows me to bring theory to life with real-world case studies, especially in subjects like psychopathology, fostering deeper student engagement. My corporate experience further bridges the gap between academia and industry, connecting students with industry leaders through guest lectures and advisory roles. By blending hands-on practice, theoretical knowledge, and industry insights, I create an enriching, dynamic learning environment that prepares students for future success.

How do empathy and psychological insight shape your leadership? Share an example where they made a significant impact.

Empathy and emotional intelligence are central to my leadership, fostering deeper connections and impactful outcomes. One memorable instance involved an Iranian student with limited English proficiency who relied heavily on dictionaries for assessments. Recognising her potential, I provided consistent support, both academic and emotional, and collaborated with her parents to encourage her pursuit of a master’s degree in psychology. She not only excelled but now serves as a university counsellor in the UAE, positively impacting numerous students. By creating a judgementfree, supportive environment, I enabled her growth and success, embodying my mantra: “Connect first, correct later.”

What activities help you unwind and find inspiration, and how do they influence your approach to work?

I’m fortunate to have a strong social support system that keeps me grounded and inspired. Meaningful interactions with diverse individuals energise me, offering fresh perspectives that enrich my work. Travelling fuels my passion for exploration—I visit new cities every three months, drawing inspiration from different cultures. While I enjoy reading, it’s the human connections I form that truly shape my growth, providing insights that continuously enhance my professional journey.

What key challenge did you face in adapting to education changes, and how did you address it?

The COVID-19 pandemic marked a pivotal challenge in my teaching journey as it forced an abrupt shift to online education. Transitioning to flipped classrooms, virtual assessments, and new digital tools was initially daunting, but it also accelerated innovation. I embraced micropresentations and interactive features, aligning teaching with Education 4.0’s emphasis on technology and personalisation. This transition not only helped overcome immediate challenges but also significantly enhanced the learning experience. Adapting to evolving educational demands is crucial in this field. Whether engaging diverse student cohorts or navigating curricula like CBSE or IB, flexibility is essential to ensure teaching practices meet students’ individual and contextual needs.

Beyond academia, how do you bring your community focus to life through social service, and what drives this passion?

Engaging with social and community services is a deeply fulfilling part of my journey. As a TEDx speaker and CDA Dubai Licensed Psychologist, I’ve had the privilege of using my expertise in counselling, psychotherapy, and DEI practices to create meaningful impact. Whether it’s working with Open Minds Psychiatry or championing inclusion at GEMS New Millennium School, I strive to address pressing community needs. Through over 300 events worldwide and initiatives like school training programs in the UAE, I aim to empower individuals. My book, Counselling Interventions for Millennials, archived at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, embodies my commitment to knowledge-sharing and collective well-being.

What’s a key change you hope to see in Asian education, and how do you intend to support it?

The Asian education system needs to evolve from traditional rote learning to focus on skillbased education. The modern world values practical, specialised skills over mere theoretical knowledge. Incorporating vocational training, project-based learning, and internships can make education more applicable and engaging. Introducing interdisciplinary approaches, critical thinking, and technology into classrooms will further bridge the gap between academia and industry. I hope to lead this transformation by promoting these principles in my teaching and collaborating with policymakers to create programs that prepare students for a dynamic future.