UGC–MMTTC, Punjabi University launches Concurrent programmes: Courses in ICT and NEP orientation &sensitization
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ September 3,2025
The UGC-Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC) at Punjabi University, Patiala, has launched a Refresher Course in Information Communication Technology (ICT) along with an NEP Orientation & Sensitization Programme in an online mode, bringing together a diverse group of academicians and researchers from across the country.
The Refresher Course in ICT has been designed to empower teachers with the latest tools, applications, and methodologies in digital learning, programming, and emerging technologies. This course is not merely about upgrading skills, but about transforming educators into leaders in innovation and knowledge dissemination. Similarly, the NEP Orientation & Sensitization Programme aims to provide an opportunity to reflect, learn, unlearn, and grow together as educators and researchers. The programmes focus on bridging the gap between foundational knowledge and cutting-edge practices aligned with the National Education Policy.
The inaugural session was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh, Vice Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala, as the Chief Guest, and Prof. (Dr.) Jaswinder Singh Brar, Professor, Centre for Economic Change and Dean Academic Affairs, Punjabi University, Patiala, as the Guest of Honour.
Welcoming the dignitaries and participants, Dr. Raman Maini, Director, MMTTC, expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor for his visionary leadership, consistent support, and encouragement in strengthening academic excellence and faculty development initiatives of the University. He lauded Dr. Jagdeep Singh for inspiring teachers to engage with cutting-edge knowledge and national educational reforms.
Dr. Maini also acknowledged the valuable presence and academic guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Balraj Singh Brar, noting his contributions to policy-making, research, and academic planning at the University.
The Director placed on record his appreciation for the Course Coordinators of the ICT Refresher Course — Dr. Lakhwinder Kaur and Dr. Navdeep Kanwal— and for the Coordinators of the NEP Orientation and Sensitization Programme — Dr. Nidhi Walia and Dr. Heena Atwal. Their tireless efforts ensured the successful launch of both programmes.
Dr. Maini said both these courses are timely and significant — ICT empowers us to innovate in teaching, while NEP 2020 calls us to reimagine education in India with a holistic, learner-centric approach. Together, these programmes will strengthen academic capacity and promote quality education aligned with national priorities.
Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh, Vice-Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala as the Chief Guest said that the Refresher Course in ICT and NEP Programme is a significant initiative to equip participants with the essential tools required for academic excellence in the digital era. He encouraged all the participants, stating: “Never underestimate your influence. Every lecture, every conversation, every gesture, has the potential to shape a student’s future. Let us use this opportunity to reflect, learn, unlearn, and grow together as educators and researchers.”
Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh said ICT today is not just a tool but a lifeline for effective teaching and research, while NEP 2020 challenges us to reimagine Indian education with global standards and indigenous values. Together, these programmes will equip you with knowledge, insight, and vision to contribute meaningfully to the future of our institutions.
The Guest of Honour, Prof. (Dr.) Jaswinder Singh Brar,Dean AcademicsPunjabi University, Patiala, appreciated the initiatives taken by MMTTC and applauded the efforts of the organizers and supporting staff in successfully conducting such innovative programmes and emphasized that Information and Communication Technology is the backbone of modern education.
The Course Coordinator of the Refresher Course in ICT, Dr. LakhwinderKaur, said: “Together, let’s build a community of educators committed to excellence, empathy, and lifelong learning. This refresher course is a step towards embracing ICT for effective teaching, research, and institutional development.”
Course Co-Coordinator Dr. Navdeep Kanwal, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Engineering, introduced the participants to the course themes. He stated that the Programme would cover ICT in research, e-learning platforms, plagiarism detection tools, big data applications, AI-enabled teaching, and digital security practices.
The Course Coordinator of the NEP Orientation & Sensitization Programme, Dr. Nidhi Walia, highlighted that the programme aims at creating awareness and building capacity among teachers regarding the key features and implementation strategies of NEP-2020. She stressed that this two-week-long programme energizes academic pursuits and strengthens the spirit of inquiry.
Dr. Heena Atwal, Course Co-Coordinator ofthe NEP Orientation & Sensitization Programme, added that the refresher course and NEP sessions are designed not only to enhance professional competencies but also to promote innovation and collaboration. She also proposed a formal vote of thanks to the dignitaries, experts, and participants.
During the closing remarks, Dr. Maini extended heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated staff members Dr. Mandeep Singh (Technical Officer-II), Dyal Dutt, Surinder Singh, Kanta Rani, Mahaveer Singh, and Surinder Kumar, acknowledging their exemplary organizational skills and crucial contributions in ensuring the seamless execution of the programme.
With an overwhelming response from participants, the Refresher Courses in ICT and NEP Orientation & Sensitization Programme are expected to be a landmark step towards strengthening digital capabilities, academic excellence, and preparing educators for the future of higher education.
