Dr. Vinata Sai, Chairperson, Department of Science and Humanities, and Professor, English, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Chennai Campus, is an inspired educator and an ardent, lifelong learner. A good listener, patient, empathetic, optimistic, adaptable, and committed, she received the Vocational Excellence Award from the Rotary Club of Madras East in 2005.
English, irrefutably, holds its sway as a global language and Dr Vinata Sai recognises the undisputed need for developing the communication skills of students. Also, a firm believer in Vedantic philosophy, it is her earnest wish to fortify young minds with values, courage, confidence, and assist them in their self-discovery. Imbued with Amrita’s values of love and compassion, she aspires to make a positive difference in others’ lives.
Dr. Vinata Sai, as a student, excelled both in curricular and co-curricular activities. She served as the Vice-Chairman and Chairman of the College Union and was adjudged the Best Outgoing Student in UG and PG, apart from winning the Best Quizzer and Best NCC Cadet Awards. A “C” Certificate holder in NCC, she represented the Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry contingent in the Republic Day Camp in Delhi in 1985 and also participated in cycling and trekking expeditions.
An avid quizzer, Dr. Vinata Sai has won several quizzes. A few notable ones are serving as an Expert in the Colors TV quiz, Kodeeswari, 2019; the first prize in a quiz on Himachal by TI Cycles, which entitled her to participate in the weekend category of the MTB Himachal, 2011, International Mountain Biking Event; the first and second prizes in Quest, a quiz for women conducted by the Duchess Club of Hotel Savera, Chennai, in 2006 and 2007, respectively; the Sports Quiz on DD (twice) by Dr Narottam Puri. She also conducts quizzes in schools and colleges.
The world posits a strong digital future but the teacher as a facilitator will not be passe is the conviction of Dr. Vinata Sai.