Thapar Polytechnic College organized Principals’ Conclave 2025, a step towards educational transformation
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ April 17,2025
Thapar Polytechnic College, Patiala, under the visionary leadership of its Principal, Dr. Ankush Kansal, organized the Principals’ Conclave – 2025 on April 17, 2025, at the Auditorium of Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology (TIET), Patiala. Centered around the theme “Educational Leadership Redefined: A Conclave for Future Readiness,” the event brought together more than 70 principals from Schools and Polytechnic Institutions across Punjab to deliberate on the evolving priorities of India’s educational landscape.
The conclave commenced on a ceremonial note with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by a melodious Saraswati Vandana, invoking blessings for wisdom and enlightenment. This spiritual beginning set a reflective and aspirational tone for the day’s proceedings.
In his welcome address, Dr. Ankush Kansal emphasized the urgent need to reorient education systems toward outcome-based learning and skill-driven education. He highlighted that institutions must empower learners not just with knowledge but with competencies that align with real-world demands. Stressing the role of visionary leadership, he called for fostering academic ecosystems that nurture innovation, inclusivity, and empathy. He also praised the gathering of educational heads as a testament to a shared commitment to transformative change.
The event was graced by Anil Bhargava, Chairman, Managing Committee, Thapar Polytechnic College, as the Chief Guest. He appreciated the college’s initiative in creating a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and visionary planning. In his address, he urged institutions to adopt a future-forward mindset and align educational strategies with national development goals.
Adding stature to the conclave was the esteemed presence of Dr. Padmakumar Nair, Director, TIET; Dr. Ajay Batish, Deputy Director, TIET, Chief academic officer; Dr. Gurbinder Singh, Vice Chairman, Managing Committee, TPC; Registrar, TIET; Director, LMTSM, Dr R S Kaler, Dean of Faculty Affairs and Dr. Dwarikanath Ratha, Professor CED, TIET & Co-ordinator TPC. Their presence enriched the conclave with insightful perspectives and inspired deeper reflection on systemic reform.
A highlight of the event was a series of panel discussions addressing themes such as “The transition from traditional teaching to Outcome-Based Learning”, which focuses on real-world skills and deep understanding.
The growing importance of Skill-Based Learning that enhances employability and bridges the gap between education and industry.
In a well-curated campus tour, dignitaries were given a glimpse into TIET’s state-of-the-art infrastructure. The delegation visited the Nava Nalanda Central Library, known for its digital repositories and research access; the Venture Lab, which cultivates student-led innovation and start-up culture; the Experiential Learning Centre, a hub for project-based and immersive learning; and the Central Workshop, where students acquire hands-on technical proficiency. The tour underscored the host institution’s commitment to a learner-centric, skills-oriented educational model.
Principals’ Conclave 2025 emerged as a defining moment in Thapar Polytechnic College’s academic journey. The event not only facilitated the exchange of ideas but also reaffirmed a collective commitment to excellence, innovation, and future-ready education. It was a celebration of leadership, collaboration, and the shared aspiration to shape India’s academic future with foresight and integrity.
