2-week CBP for faculty members begins at Central University of Kashmir

Ganderbal, Feb 19: The two-week Capacity Building Programme (CBP) for the faculty members in Social Sciences, jointly organised by the Departments of Education and Economics, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), began at varsity’s Tulmulla campus here on Monday.

Addressing the participants during the inaugural session, I/c Vice-Chancellor, and Head Department of Management Studies, Prof Abdul Gani, said, the research conducted by the faculty members and scholars in the higher educational institutions should be impactful and for the public good. “The higher educational institutions are recognised as key drivers of societal progress, with their research endeavors serving as powerful engines for the growth and positive change,” he said, adding the universities play a key role in creating knowledge that benefits the public and addresses the pressing local and global challenges.

Prof Gani said, the universities serve as hubs of innovation, where scholars, researchers, and students collaborate to push the boundaries of knowledge and explore new frontiers.

In his speech, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof Shahid Rasool, said the universities across the country are poised to play a pivotal role in the transformation and development of the nation, thus contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. “Recognising the importance of research as a catalyst for the overall progress and development of the country, universities are intensifying their efforts to drive research excellence and innovation across various domains,” he said.

Prof Shahid said the recent technological advancements in the country have given a new dimension to the teaching-learning methods and pedagogy. He said the Vice-Chancellor, Prof A Ravinder Nath, endeavours to foster an ecosystem of innovation in the CUKashmir that will encourage creativity and drive technological advancements.

Speaking on the occasion, educational expert and keynote speaker, Prof Sudhakar Venukapalli, said that “Investing in the professional development of faculty is vital for driving intellectual growth and societal progress.” “By equipping educators with advanced skills and resources, the universities cultivate a vibrant community of scholars capable of addressing contemporary challenges and shaping the future of social sciences in India,” he said.

Dean School of Education and Course Director, Prof Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, in his address, said the capacity building programme will provide faculty members with advanced training in research methodologies, equipping them with the tools to conduct rigorous and impactful research in their respective fields. He said the programme will facilitate collaboration among faculty members from diverse backgrounds, fostering cross-disciplinary research partnerships and knowledge exchange.

Dean School of Legal Studies, Prof Farooq Ahmad Mir, Dean School of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Muhammad Yousuf, Finance Officer, Dr Mehraj ud Din Shah, Co-course director, Dr Tosib Alam, other functionaries of the university were also present.

Speaking on the occasion, Coordinator Department of Economics, Dr. Masroor Ahmad, said that 31 faculty members including 11 from outside states of West Bengal, Orissa, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and New Delhi are participating in the programme. He said experts from IITs, IIMs, central and state universities and National Institute of Education Planning and Administration (NIEPA) will be delivering lectures during the two-week event.

Sr. Asst Prof Dr Mohammad Syed conducted the programme proceeding and Sr. Asst Prof Dr Saima Bashir proposed the vote of thanks.