Capacity Building Program for NEP SAARTHIs
- Date : September 11, 2024 :: Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Arunachal Pradesh -

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Capacity Building Program for NEP SAARTHIs

Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) has organised a comprehensive One-Day Orientation, Discussion, and Capacity Building Program for NEP SAARTHI, alongside the live session on the SEMICON Program, drawing over 200 students and faculty members. This combined event aimed to enhance awareness about both the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the SEMICON Program, a Government of India initiative that focuses on strengthening India’s semiconductor sector. The program was held in three different sessions followed by vote of thanks.

The program began with the arrival of principal officers of the university and a warm felicitation ceremony. Prof. Saket Kushwaha, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of RGU, delivered the inaugural speech, sharing his valuable insights on NEP SAARTHIs. Launched by the Government of India in May 2023, NEP SAARTHI initiative seeks to mentor and guide students and teachers in implementing the NEP 2020 reforms.

Prof. Kushwaha emphasized the program’s objective of empowering students to become ambassadors of educational transformation, underlining the importance of innovation and progressive pedagogy in shaping the future of education in India. The registrar Dr. N.T. Rikam conveyed the message of understanding the requirements of future generations and thereby designing as redesigning the course curriculum of various program. It was also place on record that all the academic programs at UG and PG level at RGU are synched with NEP 2020.

Following this, Prof. Otem Padung, Finance Officer of RGU, delivered a thought-provoking address. He stressed the need for constant reform and transformation in society, stating, “Change is the unchanged law of nature.” He further emphasized that students are the ambassadors of this transformation, with the responsibility to drive academic reforms and national progress. Prof. Padung concluded with a powerful message: “The future is dark for those who cannot bring reformation and transformation.”

The program also included the livestreaming on the SEMICON, an initiative aimed at building India’s capacity in semiconductor technology, fostering research, and attracting investments in this critical sector. The program aims to develop a skilled workforce, strengthen supply chains, and position India as a global semiconductor hub. The SEMICON initiative will also help students gain insight into semiconductor technologies, contributing to the growing demand for specialists in electronics and computing.

The second session focused on orientation on NEP 2020. Key components of the policy, such as the Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) and the curriculum and credit framework for undergraduate programs, were discussed. The session also introduced additional components like multidisciplinary courses, value-added courses, and internship opportunities, which are designed to equip students with diverse skills and practical experience.

A dynamic panel discussion moderated by Dr. Ravi Ranjan Kumar, NEP Task Force convenor, explored the salient features of NEP 2020. The panel included:

1. Prof. Shambhu Prasad, Dean, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences
2. Dr. Manoj Kumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Law, RGU
3. Dr. Proshanto Kr. Saha, Head & Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, RGU
4. Dr. Bhavesh Deka, Associate Professor, Department of Entomology, RGU
5. Dr. Rupam Kumar Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering

The panellists’ shared insights on how NEP 2020 emphasizes the social relevance of education and the collective efforts required for its implementation. They stressed the importance of collaboration among governments, schools, teachers, and stakeholders in transforming the Indian education system for future generations. The Students Participant clarified their various doubts during the session and also did put their suggestions for further improvements which was lauded by all as being one of the most up to date in the reason.

The session concluded with a lecture by Prof. Utpal Bhattacharya, Director of IQAC at RGU, who elaborated on the verticals and benefits of NEP 2020. He highlighted the policy's focus on holistic, multidisciplinary development, the integration of vocational education into mainstream learning, and the significance of the National Qualification Framework, which enhances employability and lifelong learning opportunities.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Abhishek Prasad, Assistant Professor, Department of Management, RGU, who expressed gratitude to the participants, panellists’, and organizers for their contributions to the success of the event.

This orientation program marked a significant step in fostering a deeper understanding of NEP 2020 and empowering students and educators to drive educational transformation in India.