Abhilashi University Launches Eight-Day Online Faculty Development Programme on NEP 2020.
Academic Leaders and Scholars Converge to Foster Educational Reform Under UGC-MMTTC Initiative.
Chailchowk:
Abhilashi University, Chailchowk, marked a significant milestone in academic engagement with the commencement of an eight-day Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on “NEP 2020: Orientation and Sensitisation Programme”. Organised under the aegis of the UGC–Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC), Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, the programme aims to deepen understanding and enhance implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The FDP is being held in online mode from June 19 to June 27, 2025.
The inaugural session commenced with scholarly enthusiasm and witnessed wide participation from faculty members across various departments of Abhilashi University as well as scholars and academicians from other institutions. The event was honoured by the presence of Dr. Ashwani Kumar, Assistant Director, MMTTC, Shimla, who highlighted the transformative role of Abhilashi University in the grassroots implementation of NEP 2020. He underscored the importance of sensitising educators to the policy’s core values and commended the university for fostering a professional and progressive academic environment.
Welcoming all dignitaries and participants, Dr. Navdeep Sharma, Assistant Professor and Course Coordinator of the FDP, extended heartfelt gratitude to UGC-MMTTC, Himachal Pradesh University, and the university leadership. He remarked that NEP 2020 is not merely a policy document, but a dynamic roadmap for reshaping the academic and intellectual fabric of the nation.
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Desh Raj Thakur, Director, MMTTC and Senior Professor, Department of Biosciences, HPU Shimla. In his thought-provoking and comprehensive presentation, Prof. Thakur explored the revolutionary nature of NEP 2020, describing it as a shift from traditional rote learning methods to a competency-based and outcome-oriented model of education. He elaborated on critical themes such as the Indian Knowledge System (IKS), multidisciplinary approaches, Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), the significance of instruction in the mother tongue, and inclusive education practices.
In an enlightening segment, Prof. Thakur also emphasised the importance of ancient Indian texts like the Vedas and Puranas, along with the traditional wisdom of medicinal plants, which form a significant part of the NEP’s focus on cultural and knowledge revival. He passionately conveyed that teachers are the “catalysts of change,” and their mindset, adaptability, and commitment will determine the policy’s success. He further called for robust pedagogical reforms, technological integration, and a culture of continuous professional development aligned with national educational objectives.
The session was enriched by the presence of all Deans, Directors, Coordinators, and Heads of Departments of the university, contributing to a lively academic discourse. The vibrant participation of faculty members created a dynamic platform for collaborative learning and intellectual exchange.
The session concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Navdeep Sharma, who acknowledged the contributions of all participants, especially the keynote speaker, Prof. D.R. Thakur. He also expressed gratitude to the university’s leadership for their continued support and visionary direction.
On this occasion, Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) H.K. Chaudhary extended his best wishes, noting that the true success of NEP 2020 lies in translating policy into classroom practice. He expressed confidence that this FDP will serve as a crucial step in that direction. Registrar, Dr. Kapil Kapoor, praised the initiative, stating that such programmes are instrumental in empowering faculty and fostering strong academic ecosystems.
Chancellor, Dr. R.K. Abhilashi, expressed his satisfaction at the university’s proactive involvement in the national educational mission, while Pro-Chancellor, Dr. L.K. Abhilashi, reiterated that nurturing future generations with sincerity and responsibility is central to the policy’s success.
Further congratulatory messages were shared by Dr. Narvada Abhilashi, Chairperson, Genius Education Society; Dr. Promila Abhilashi, Vice-Chairperson, Abhilashi Education Society; and Narendar Kumar, Secretary, who lauded the programme’s timely vision and transformative academic intent.
The eight-day FDP is expected to further engage educators in deep discussions, workshops, and expert sessions, fostering readiness for the successful implementation of NEP 2020 at all institutional levels.