Need for interdisciplinary research to address societal challenges: KU VC

Srinagar, Oct 17: To empower faculty members and enhance their professional skills to contribute to the overall development of the higher education sector in India, the University of Kashmir (KU), organised a refresher course in social sciences that concluded with a valedictory ceremony here Thursday.

Faculty members from various Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across India participated in the two-week course that was organised by the varsity’s UGC-Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC).

On the occasion, KU Vice Chancellor, Prof Nilofer Khan, applauded the participants for their dedication and emphasised the significance of continuous faculty development in advancing academic excellence.

“Programmes like these play a pivotal role in enhancing teaching practices and encouraging a culture of collaborative research,” she said.

Prof Khan also discussed the transformative impact of the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 on higher education and stressed the importance of project funding and institutional collaborations to strengthen research initiatives. Speaking at the valedictory ceremony, Director, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, Prof Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, highlighted the need for interdisciplinary research to address societal challenges.

“Collaborative approaches are essential in tackling social diseases and improving community well-being,” he said while underlining the importance of a holistic approach to research and problem-solving.

Director, UGC-MMTTC, Prof Fayaz Ahmad, emphasised the relevance of faculty development programmes in equipping educators with the latest teaching techniques and research tools.

Consistent professional development is the foundation of effective teaching,” he said, advocating for a balance between in-person learning and technology-enhanced teaching practices.

Coordinator, UGC-MMTTC, Dr Faheem Syeed Masoodi, conducted the proceedings, while Course Coordinator, Dr Mohammad Ajmal Shah, presented the course report. Coordinator, MMTTC, Dr Kartar Chand Sharma proposed the formal vote of thanks.