Optimum utilization of technology can help achieve better reach in education: VC PU

National Conference on ‘Draft New Education Policy 2019’ concludes at PU Chandigarh, July 17, 2019: The two day national conference titled ‘Draft New Education Policy 2019: A Way Ahead’ concluded at Panjab University here today with recommendations and suggestions made by stakeholders to the draft of New Education Policy. The valedictory session of the conference had a special address by Prof. Nagesh Thakur, member UGC. He spoke about integration of teaching and research, about relevance of values and ethics and the significance of mother tongue in teaching. Prof. Raj Kumar, Vice Chancellor, PU, in his address stated that optimum utilization of technology can help achieve better reach in education. He focused on including the component of ‘employability’ in the curricula. Prof Kumar also spoke about the concept of ‘resource sharing’ and developing business models for self sustenance. Earlier, the first session for the day was on ‘Governance and Administration of Education and Research’ and was chaired by Prof. Ramanjit Johal. The panellists for the session included Prof. Archana Bhatnagar and Prof. Khushwinder Singh. The session saw deliberations on functions of regulatory bodies and accreditation agencies. The second session for the day was a round table discussion and compilation of recommendations. The key issues raised included funding, teachers’ status, choice based credit system to name a few. Prof Krishan Kumar raised the important issue of constructing a norm on how teachers should be treated at educational institutes. Prof Rajat Sandhir raised the issue of paying heed to manpower along with developing infrastructures. Dr. Kuldeep Kaur, Co-coordinator CALEM presented the report of the conference and Prof. Latika Sharma proposed the vote of thanks. The two day conference was organized by Centre for Academic Leadership and Education Management (CALEM) and Department of Education, PU, under the aegis of PMMMNMTT, Ministry of Human Resource Development, GOI. The recommendations made during the conference will be compiled in the form of a compendium. Around 50 who participated from the States of Punjab, Haryana and UT, Chandigarh included Chairpersons, Directors, Principals, Faculty and other stakeholders. There were 16 Resource persons for various sessions.