NEP-2020 will foster creativity and innovation: CUK VC

Ganderbal, Mar 15: Central University of Kashmir (CUK) Vice-Chancellor, Prof A Ravinder Nath Friday said the National Education Policy-2020 represents a bold vision for transforming the country’s education system, by focusing on fostering creativity, knowledge creation, innovation, and excellence to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

“NEP-2020 seeks to empower learners with adequate knowledge, skills, and values necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape and contribute to the socio-economic development of the nation,” Prof Ravinder Nath said, while inaugurating a one-day National Level workshop on “NEP-2020: A Workshop for Educators”, organised by the Department of English at varsity’s Tulmulla campus.

Head Deptt of Management Studies and former Dean (I/c), School of Languages, Prof. Abdul Gani, Dean School of Legal Studies and Registrar I/c, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir, Dean School of Business Studies, Prof. Fayaz Ahmad Nikka, Dean School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, Prof. Mohammad Yousuf, Dean, School of Languages, Head, Deptt. of English, and workshop Convenor, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, Heads of departments, faculty members, research scholars and students were present.

CUK Vice-Chancellor further advocated for a curriculum that integrates international, national, and regional dimensions and aspirations, emphasising the adoption of these three distinct approaches to ensure that students do not remain confined to a single direction in their educational journey.

Addressing the participants, Prof Abdul Gani, described NEP-2020 as a landmark reform in the field of education, emphasiSing holistic development, flexible learning pathways, and integration of technology in education. He underscored the significance of adopting multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches in education, positioning the NEP as a medium  towards achieving the goal of a developed India (Viksit Bharat). He highlighted the pivotal role of educators in realising the objectives of the NEP.

I/c Registrar, Prof Farooq Ahmad Mir gave insights into the shortcomings of the previous education system, particularly the Choice Based Credit System, attributing its failure to factors such as lack of awareness among both faculty and students. He elucidated on the preamble of the NEP 2020, which pledges to uphold equality and accountability in the education system, while also accentuating the indispensable role of teachers as collaborators and mentors in guiding students.

In her welcome address, Prof Sandhya Tiwari emphasised the importance of conducting workshops on NEP 2020 and said the event will provide a suitable platform for educators to connect with like-minded peers, establish professional connections, and form collaborations for future initiatives in education reform. She highlighted the critical roles of the government, technology, and faculty in effectively implementing the NEP, while also delineating the workshop’s objectives and agendas.

Associate Prof Dept of English, Dr Krishna Chaitanya E, conducted the programme proceedings and Asst Professor, (SG) Dr. Ihsan Ur Rahim Malik proposed the vote of thanks.

Later, during the technical sessions, Prof Anil Kumar Aneja, Head, Deptt of English, Director, Centre for Disability Studies, University of Delhi, Prof Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, Dean, School of Education, CUK, Prof Vanaja M, Dean, School of Education and Training Director, Directorate of Admissions MANUU and Dr Rafi Mohammad, Associate Professor, Deptt of Education and Training Deputy Director, Directorate of Admissions MANUU, spoke on various aspects of the NEP-2020. Sheenam and Basit were the rapporteurs of the inaugural session.