National Faculty Development Program Inaugurated

Bhilwara (PRO, Sangam University): A grand inauguration of the five-day National Faculty Development Program (FDP) was held at Sangam University, Bhilwara. Organized under the theme “Integrating Indian Knowledge Traditions into Modern Education: NEP-2020 Perspective”, the program is being conducted from December 16 to 20, 2024, under the aegis of AIU-AADC (All India Universities Academic and Administrative Development Center). Academicians, experts, and participants from across the nation are participating in this prestigious event.

The inaugural session was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Professor Karunesh Saxena. The Chief Guest, Professor B.P. Sharma (Chairman, UNESCO, MGP), shared insights on the rich heritage of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and their relevance in modern education. Highlighting the importance of ancient Indian texts, he emphasized that all inventions, past and future, can find references in these texts. He stressed the need to harmonize traditional knowledge with modern education in the light of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The distinguished speaker, Professor Anil Kothari (Principal, Guru Nanak Girls PG College, Udaipur), remarked, “Indian knowledge traditions such as Yoga, Ayurveda, Astronomy, and Mathematics were not only highly influential in ancient times but continue to guide modern science and technology today. This program is a significant step toward integrating these traditions into the modern educational framework.”

Joint Director of AIU, Ranjana Parihar, appreciated the initiative taken by Sangam University and stated that this endeavor would set a new benchmark in the field of education.

During the session, Vice-Chancellor Professor Manas Ranjan Panigrahi outlined the program schedule, which includes ten sessions over five days. These sessions will focus on subjects such as Management, Humanities, Medical Sciences, and Science & Technology. Eminent speakers will discuss the role of Indian Knowledge Systems in advancing modern education and technology.

In his address, Vice-Chancellor Professor Karunesh Saxena motivated the participants, stating, “This program is not just a platform for the exchange of knowledge but also an opportunity to make Indian traditions relevant in the modern context. It is a significant step toward achieving the objectives of NEP-2020.”

Registrar Professor Rajeev Mehta highlighted the program’s purpose, which is to encourage participants to explore, study, and incorporate the various dimensions of Indian Knowledge Systems into contemporary education.

The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Professor Preeti Mehta, Director and Nodal Officer of the program, who informed that the participants would now engage in enriching sessions over the next few days. The event was efficiently conducted by Dr. Seema Kabra and Dr. Shweta Bohra.