ICSSR-NWRC Organises AICTE-Approved 8 Days CBP cum FDP on Universal Human Values at PU Campus 

Chandigarh, June 22, 2026: ICSSR-North Western Regional Centre (ICSSR-NWRC), Chandigarh, in collaboration with the Universal Human Values (UHV) Cell, Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, organized an AICTE Approved Capacity Building Programme (CBP) -cum- Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on Universal Human Values-II (UHV-II) at the ICSSR-NWRC premises.
The programme received active support from the Department of Youth Welfare, PU and the Centre for Industry-Institute Partnership Programme (CIIPP). The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 80 delegates representing diverse regions of India, including Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand.
The programme also received the support of Vice Chancellor, PU, Prof. Renu Vig, she has consistently encouraged initiatives aimed at promoting human values and holistic education.
Director, ICSSR-NWRC and Patron of the FDP, Prof. Upasna Joshi Sethi welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of Universal Human Values in fostering harmony, happiness, and holistic development. She noted that India was once a pioneer in value-based education through the Guru-Shishya Parampara, where human values were integral to learning. With the emergence of the modern fee-based education system, she emphasized the need to reintroduce Universal Human Values through the curriculum to nurture ethical, responsible, and well-rounded individuals.
Coordinator of the FDP and Coordinator, UHV Cell, PU, Prof. Shankar Sehgal, shared his personal journey with Universal Human Values. He explained how the understanding gained through UHV has positively transformed both his personal and professional life by improving relationships, teamwork, decision-making, and overall well-being.
Addressing the gathering, the Guest of Honour, Prof. Latika Sharma reflected on the journey and achievements of the UHV Cell at PU. She emphasized the need for organizing more such Faculty Development Programmes across the North-Western Region of India, particularly in light of the recent recognition of the UHV Cell, PU, as an AICTE Nodal Centre for Universal Human Values.
The Chief Guest, Prof. Kuldip Chand Agnihotri, former Vice Chancellor of the Central University of Himachal Pradesh elaborated on the core concepts of Universal Human Values and stressed the importance of drawing inspiration from India's rich cultural heritage and indigenous knowledge systems for understanding and implementing UHV effectively. He remarked that India has historically inspired the world through its values and possesses the potential to emerge as a global leader “Vishwa Guru” in the field of Universal Human Values.
AICTE Resource Person, Jitender Narula, emphasized the need for value-based holistic education that goes beyond mere skill development. He highlighted the role of Universal Human Values in helping students gain clarity about life and purpose. He explained that a balanced life depends upon physical facilities, meaningful relationships, and right understanding. He further stressed the importance of distinguishing between the self and the body and noted that true happiness emerges from harmony, right understanding, and balanced living rather than excessive pursuit of material gains.
The proceedings were coordinated by Dr. Garima Joshi, Co-Coordinator, UHV Cell, PU. Participants appreciated the programme and described it as insightful, enriching, and transformative. The FDP aims to strengthen the integration of Universal Human Values into higher education and contribute towards the development of responsible, ethical, and socially conscious educators.