Multi Disciplinary Refresher Course on “Social Sciences” Successfully Concludes at UGC-MMTTC, Punjabi University, Patiala
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ July 23,2025
The UGC-Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC), Punjabi University, Patiala, proudly announces the successful completion of the Two-Week Online Multi-Disciplinary Refresher Course on “Social Sciences”, held from July 08 to July 23, 2025.Organized in accordance with the UGC-MHRD guidelines, the programme brought together a diverse group of educators and professionals from various states and esteemed institutions across India. The course aimed to enhance participants’ academic depth and pedagogical expertise, offering them an opportunity to explore emerging perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches within the broad domain of Social Sciences.This enriching academic engagement reflects MMTTC’s commitment to fostering excellence in higher education through continuous professional development.
The Valedictory Session of the Two-Week Online Multi-Disciplinary Refresher Course on “Social Sciences” commenced with the traditional Punjabi University Dhuni. The session began with a warm welcome by Prof. (Dr.) Raman Maini, Director, UGC-MMTTC and Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Punjabi University, Patiala. In his address, Dr. Maini extended heartfelt gratitude to the Vice Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala, for his unwavering support and visionary leadership, which continue to inspire the successful conduct of all programmes under UGC-MMTTC.Dr. Maini warmly welcomed the Guest of Honour, Prof. (Dr.) Upasna Joshi Sethi, Professor, University Institute of Applied Management Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, and Honorary Director, ICSSR North-Western Regional Centre (NWRC). He also acknowledged and appreciated the tireless efforts of the Course Coordinator, Prof. (Dr.) Dharam Pal Singh, and Co-Coordinator, Dr. Lakhvir Singh, Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work, Punjabi University, Patiala.Reflecting on the course, Dr. Maini described it as a profoundly enriching academic experience, marked by insightful lectures, cutting-edge research insights, and collaborative exchanges among participants from various disciplines. He emphasized that such courses serve as gateways to intellectual growth, academic collaboration, and innovation, empowering educators with advanced pedagogical tools and research competencies.Congratulating the participants on the successful completion of the course, Dr. Maini encouraged them to view this experience as a springboard for future Multidisciplinary research, innovative teaching practices, and continued professional and social development.
Vice-Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala, Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh, in his message on the occasion of the completion of the Refresher Course, highlighted that it is a matter of great pride and satisfaction to witness the successful culmination of this academic programme organized by MMTTC, Punjabi University, Patiala. In today’s rapidly changing world, the role of Social Sciences is more vital than ever. This course has rightly focused on equipping educators with updated knowledge, critical thinking skills, and multidisciplinary approaches to address contemporary societal challenges.He noted that the course has not only provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and skill enhancement but has also fostered a spirit of collaboration and academic curiosity among the participants. He congratulated all the faculty members, resource persons, and participants whose dedication and enthusiasm made the course a meaningful and enriching experience. He extended his best wishes to all participants for continued success in their academic and professional pursuits.
Prof. (Dr.) Narinder Kaur Multani, Dean, Academic Affairs, Punjabi University, Patiala on this valedictory of refresher course said that with the growing complexity of social, political, economic, and cultural phenomena, the course sought to promote a deeper understanding of critical issues through multidisciplinary approaches. It aimed at equipping educators with the analytical tools and pedagogical strategies necessary to foster critical thinking, social awareness, and academic engagement among students.
The session was further elevated by an inspiring and insightful address by the Guest of Honour, Prof. (Dr.) Upasna Joshi Sethi, Professor at the University Institute of Applied Management Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, and Honorary Director, ICSSR North-Western Regional Centre (NWRC).Prof. Sethi lauded the Refresher Course as a vibrant academic platform that successfully brought together faculty members from diverse institutions across India, fostering a spirit of collaboration, intellectual exchange, and collective learning. She emphasized the enduring value of being a good social person, describing it as a hallmark of effective educators and visionary leaders, one that reflects patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to engage with diverse perspectives.Prof. Sethi also took a moment to appreciate Dr. Raman Maini for his dedicated leadership and tireless efforts in successfully organizing the course, commending his commitment to academic excellence and professional development.
Participants shared their feedback, reflecting on the transformative experience of the course, adding a joyful and dynamic conclusion to the event.
Professor Dr. Dharam Pal Singh, Department of Social Work, Punjabi University, Patiala and Course Coordinators, expressed immense pride in the participants enthusiasm and dedication. He commended their eagerness to engage deeply with Refresher Course theme, share knowledge, and collaboratively address pressing Social Sciences questions. Dr. Singh emphasized that the knowledge and skills acquired during the program would enable participants to implement innovative teaching techniques. He also extended heartfelt appreciation to the resource persons for their expert guidance, which significantly contributed to the success of the Refresher Course Programme.
Dr.Lakhvir Singh, Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work, Punjabi University, Patiala being Course Co-Coordinator said that it has been a truly fulfilling experience watching such vibrant minds engage, collaborate, and grow together through this course. As we come to the close of this enriching course, it gives me great pleasure to reflect on the journey we’ve all shared over the past two weeks. Our sincere gratitude also goes to the organizing team, technical staff, and support personnel, without whom this course wouldn’t have run so smoothly. He also proposed a vote of thanks.
During the closing remarks, Dr Maini extended heartfelt praise and gratitude to the dedicated staff members Dr. Mandeep Singh, Dyal Dutt, Surinder Singh, Kanta Rani, Mahaveer Singh and Surinder Kumar highlighting their exemplary organizational skills and crucial contributions in ensuring that all sessions were conducted seamlessly in an online format.
