Prof. (Dr.) O.P. Midha: Shaping the Future of Legal Education with Leadership, Empathy, and Innovation

Prof. (Dr.) O.P. Midha shares his insights on leadership, legal education, and the importance of empathy in academic administration.

Prof. (Dr.) O.P. Midha , a renowned academician and legal expert, currently serves as the Director of Chandigarh University’s University Institute of Legal Studies. With an academic journey deeply rooted in management and law, Prof. Midha has made significant contributions to both fields, shaping the next generation of legal minds. His leadership and academic rigor have been instrumental in transforming educational practices, empowering students, and fostering a culture of legal excellence.

Prof. Midha’s academic career began at Panjab University, where he completed his Master’s in Public Administration, LLB, and PhD, equipping him with a strong foundation for his subsequent leadership roles in legal education. Over the years, his invaluable insights into law and management have guided both students and colleagues, making him a role model for aspiring leaders. Today, Prof. O.P. Midha talks to Corporate World about leadership, education, the integration of legal acumen in academic administration, and his aspirations for shaping the future of legal education in India.

Q. Can you give us an overview of your academic journey at Panjab University and how it laid the foundation for your career in Management and Law?

My academic journey at Panjab University has been both enriching and transformative. I completed my Masters in Public Administration, followed by LLB, and ultimately my PhD at the same university. The diverse range of studies in both management and law provided me with a comprehensive understanding of how leadership, governance, and legal principles intertwine.

Panjab University was a melting pot of knowledge where I had the privilege of learning from some of the most accomplished scholars and professionals in their respective fields. The deep insights I gained in management helped me understand the dynamics of organizations, team building, and leadership, while my legal education gave me a robust foundation in understanding the complexities of law and its role in society. These disciplines, though distinct, are highly complementary, and they equipped me with the skills to navigate complex challenges both in the corporate world and in legal spheres.

I practiced these insights and skills throughout my career, whether in managing people or in legal administration. This foundation laid the groundwork for the roles I took on later in life, especially in academic leadership and legal education. The holistic learning at Panjab University set me up to blend these areas of expertise to achieve excellence in my career.

Q. Could you share a memorable experience from your time with the National Lok Adalat that had a lasting impact on you?

One of the most memorable experiences from my time with the National Lok Adalat occurred in the Family Court section. I witnessed firsthand the disintegration of marital relations, which often stemmed from a lack of understanding and communication between couples and their families. It was heartbreaking to see how small misunderstandings had escalated into major conflicts, resulting in the breakdown of families.

However, what made this experience truly impactful was the effort of the court and the learned judges, who worked diligently to bring the parties together. Through counseling, mediation, and understanding, many families were reunited. It was incredibly fulfilling to witness the positive impact of the legal system in restoring harmony and helping individuals resolve personal disputes.

This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of empathy and understanding in the legal profession. It also gave me a sense of immense satisfaction, knowing that my contributions, however small, could lead to meaningful change in people’s lives. It shaped my understanding of the power of legal practice in making a difference beyond the courtroom.

Q. How has your legal acumen benefited your leadership roles in academic administration?

My legal acumen has played a pivotal role in my leadership roles within academic administration. A legal education instills a sense of rationality, logical thinking, and a deep understanding of fundamental rights and duties, all of which are essential for effective leadership in any field, especially in academic administration.

In particular, my knowledge of administrative law, labour laws, and other legal processes has been indispensable in managing institutional affairs. For instance, legal principles help in ensuring that the university functions in a transparent and ethical manner, respecting the rights of faculty, staff, and students. Additionally, my legal training has provided me with a sound understanding of the various administrative procedures, enabling me to offer accurate legal opinions when required.

Moreover, legal education has taught me how to deal with complex issues like conflicts and disputes within academic settings. Legal insights help to resolve issues fairly and impartially, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity and harmony of an institution.

Q. What initiatives or programs do you hope to implement to elevate the University Institute of Legal Studies at Chandigarh University to greater heights?

At the University Institute of Legal Studies, my vision is to ensure that students not only acquire theoretical knowledge but also gain practical skills that are essential for their professional careers. One of the core initiatives I plan to focus on is enhancing experiential learning for our students. Through active participation in Moot Court exercises, legal research projects, and Pro Bono activities, students will have the opportunity to refine their skills in legal drafting, argumentation, and presentation.

In addition to this, I plan to introduce specialized workshops and internships that will provide students with exposure to real-world legal practices. By offering these opportunities, we aim to prepare students for the challenges they will face in the legal profession, and at the same time, help them build a strong network of mentors and professionals.

Furthermore, I intend to develop international collaborations and partnerships, which will allow our students to gain a global perspective on legal practices. This will elevate the stature of the institution and enhance the overall quality of legal education at Chandigarh University.

Q. What strategies have you found most effective for identifying and leveraging the unique strengths of each team member?

One of the most effective strategies I have employed in my leadership roles is identifying the unique strengths of each team member through one-on-one conversations. This allows me to understand their skills, interests, and aspirations, which can then be aligned with the broader goals of the organization.

Once the strengths are identified, it is crucial to empower team members by assigning them responsibilities that match their expertise and passions. This not only increases their productivity but also fosters a sense of belonging and ownership within the team.

Moreover, open communication is key. Regular feedback sessions and constructive discussions ensure that team members feel valued and supported in their roles. By cultivating a culture of mutual respect and understanding, team members are more likely to contribute meaningfully to the achievement of organizational goals.

In the academic setting, this approach helps to identify the strengths of faculty members as well, allowing them to take on leadership roles within research, teaching, or administration, thus enriching the academic environment.

Q. What is the one key principle you hope students and colleagues will remember about your leadership and legacy?

The key principle I hope both students and colleagues will remember about my leadership is the importance of good behaviour, empathy, and professionalism. I firmly believe that these values should be at the core of any leadership philosophy. It’s not enough to simply be competent in one’s field; it’s also about fostering an environment of trust, respect, and collaboration.

My leadership style emphasizes treating everyone with fairness and understanding, listening to their concerns, and offering guidance when needed. By adopting an empathetic approach, I believe that individuals are more motivated, engaged, and dedicated to the goals of the institution.

I hope my leadership legacy will inspire others to lead with integrity and empathy, creating a supportive and positive environment for students, faculty, and staff alike. It is through such leadership that lasting, meaningful change can be made—whether in the legal profession or in any other field. Prof. (Dr.) O.P. Midha