Department of English

“Knowledge of languages is the doorway to wisdom.”
-Roger Bacon

Since its inception in 1968, the Department of English has evolved into a vibrant centre for the study of English Language, Literature, Communication Skills, and Cultural Studies. The department initially focused primarily on compulsory English and has gradually expanded its academic scope to include an optional programme in English.
The department’s distinctive focus is strengthening students’ English language and communication skills, particularly those from rural, economically disadvantaged, and diverse backgrounds. Through learner-centred teaching, interactive activities, literary studies, and communication-oriented initiatives, the department strives to equip students with the confidence and skills required for higher education, employment, and active participation in society.
The department has a rich academic legacy. Mr. K. A. Bakshi, the first Head of the Department, served from 15 June 1968 to 12 August 1974. Mr. P. F. Patil joined the department on 20 June 1968, subsequently assumed the responsibility of Head of the Department, and served until his retirement on 31 January 1995. Mr. R. S. Sadawarte joined the department on 15 June 1971 and served until his transfer to Muktanand College in 1992. Mr. M. L. Sonawane joined the department on 3 September 1992 and took charge as Head of the Department following Mr. P. F. Patil’s retirement in 1995. He made significant contributions to the department’s academic growth and pursued his Ph.D. at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University in 2019. Mr. D. S. Salunke joined the department in 2006 and contributed to its academic development. Mr. Jitendra Tribhuvan subsequently joined the department and further strengthened its academic activities.

Present Leadership:

Following Dr. M. L. Sonawane’s retirement, Dr. Shrikant Sarwade recently joined the Department of English as Assistant Professor and Head of the Department. With an academic background in English language and literature and a strong interest in language studies, literary studies, communication skills, and contemporary critical approaches, Dr. Sarwade brings a renewed academic vision to the department.
Under the present leadership, the department aims to further strengthen its academic environment by promoting English language proficiency, literary appreciation, critical thinking, research aptitude, communication skills, soft skills, and career readiness among students.
The department is committed to providing students with quality education in English literature, language, communication skills, soft skills, and cultural studies. It seeks to nurture independent, self-motivated, confident, and socially responsible learners who can engage critically with literature and society.
The department places special emphasis on empowering students from rural and under-represented communities and helping them become confident participants in the academic, professional, and social mainstream. Through innovative teaching-learning practices, student-centred activities, research-oriented initiatives, and skill development programmes, the Department of English continues its journey towards academic excellence, inclusivity, employability, and holistic development.