Roorkee (The Hawk): A two-day ICSSR-sponsored national seminar titled "Revamping Indian Tradition and Culture through NEP 2020: Multilingual, Multicultural, Multidisciplinary Modes of Education" was organized by the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand.
The National Seminar, sponsored by ICSSR and held at IIT Roorkee's Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, convened around 130 participants across India. Prof. Binod Mishra, a distinguished Professor of English at IIT Roorkee, served as the convener. The seminar covered a wide array of themes, including Atmanirbhar Bharat, youth empowerment through NEP, localization of education via NEP, gender and skill development, ICT in pedagogical training, media literacy challenges, and more.
The seminar's first day began with a traditional welcome ceremony, including lighting a lamp and the Kulgeet. Prof. Binod Mishra extended a warm welcome, and Prof. S. P. Singh introduced IIT Roorkee and its Humanities and Social Sciences Department. The session also saw the release of a seminar souvenir and the launch of the second edition of the book "Communication Skills for Engineers and Scientists." Prof. Apurbba Kumar Sharma, Dean of Academic Affairs at IIT Roorkee, inaugurated the seminar and highlighted the institution's historical journey and alignment with NEP 2020, emphasizing multilingualism.
Prof. P. K. Nayar, the keynote speaker, discussed humanities' vital role in understanding global impacts at the local level, emphasizing the profound connection between NEP's focus on local awareness and universal responsibility. His insights shed light on how the arts can be a powerful tool in addressing pressing ecological challenges. In the plenary session, Prof. Kirti Kapur underscored the far-reaching impact of NEP's commitment to inclusivity, fostering a deep respect for India's rich cultural and regional diversity. Meanwhile, Prof. M. R. Verma's discussion of historical challenges in implementing NEPs highlighted the urgent need for well-prepared teachers and robust infrastructure, amplifying the policy's significance. Prof. Smita Jha's closing vote of thanks encapsulated the seminar's collective commitment to these crucial educational objectives.
On the second day, Prof. Susheel K Sharma discussed NEP 2020's language policy, focusing on the three-language formula and biases favouring English. Prof. Rahul Banerjee explored cutting-edge education paradigms, including AI and Design Thinking. Prof. Nayar's closing remarks emphasized adaptability and sensitivity in policy-making.
The seminar covered topics like social media's role in education, open educational resources, and ICSSR's historical context and initiatives. Shri A.K. Gupta, ICSSR representative, shared insights into ICSSR's goals and programs.
The valedictory session had two talks, followed by an address by A. K. Gupta, former director of ICSSR. The first talk was delivered by Prof. Ramesh Kumar Sharma, of Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, University School of Mass Communication, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi. It was followed by another talk by Prof. Durgesh Tripathi, Professor of Journalism and Mass Communication, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi.
The valedictory session featured a musical composition called "Shankhnaad" by Dr. Tanuja Nafde, who shared her creative journey. Certificates were distributed, and participants praised the seminar's organizers, suggesting the possibility of similar events in rural areas. Prof. Binod Mishra expressed gratitude to his team, institution, and ICSSR for their support. The seminar concluded with the national anthem, symbolizing unity and shared purpose.
