UGC-MMTTC Punjabi University starts refresher course, short term course to enhance research skills in higher education institutes

UGC-MMTTC Punjabi University starts refresher course, short term course to enhance research skills in higher education institutes

Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ December 2,2025

Under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh, Vice Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala, the UGC-Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC) at Punjabi University, Patiala, has launched Refresher Course in “Languages, Literature & Cultural Studies” and Short-Term Course in “MOOCs online Courses and Open Educational Recourses”in an offline mode, bringing together a diverse group of academiciansfrom across the country.

The Refresher Course in Languages, Literature & Cultural Studies and Short-Term Course in MOOCs online Courses and Open EducationalRecourseswill be conducted offline, offering participants an immersive learning experience. TheRefresher course is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and analytical insights into various linguistic, literary, and cultural traditions. It aims to enhance participants understanding of language structures, literary theories, cultural narratives, and interpretative methodologies. The Refresher Course further seeks to equip participants with essential analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, and interdisciplinary perspectives relevant to the study of languages, literature, and culture.The Short-Term Course on “MOOCs, Online Courses and Open Educational Resources” aims to familiarize participants with emerging digital learning ecosystems and global trends in technology-enabled education. Conducted in an online mode, this course provides comprehensive insights into the design, development, and effective use of MOOCs and other online learning platforms.

During Inaugural of these Course, Prof. (Dr.) Raman Maini, Director of MMTTC and Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Punjabi University, Patiala, extended a warm and heartfelt welcome to the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh, Vice Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala, the Guest of Honour, Prof. (Dr.) Harmohinder Singh Bedi, Chancellor, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, the Course Coordinator of the Refresher Course on Languages, Literature & Cultural Studies, Dr. Pushpinder Joshi, Associate Professor, Department of Sanskrit & Pali, the Co-coordinator Dr. C. P. Kamboj, Assistant Professor, Department of Linguistics and Punjabi Lexicography, the Course Coordinator of the Short Term Course on MOOCs, Online Courses and Open Educational Resources, Daljit Ami, Director, Educational Multimedia Research Centre, Punjabi University, Patiala, and all the participants attending the programme.

Dr Maini expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Vice Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala, for his continuous support to all the academic programmes organised by UGC–MMTTC. Dr. Maini said that the Vice Chancellor’s inspiring leadership, academic vision, and unwavering encouragement have been the driving force behind the growth, innovation, and successful execution of the various faculty development programmes at the UGC–Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC).

Dr. Maini also extended his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Harmohinder Singh Bedi, Chancellor, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, for gracing the inaugural session with his esteemed presence. “Sir, your insightful words, scholarly reflections, and deep commitment to the promotion of languages, literature, and cultural heritage have truly enriched today’s programme.Your guidance and encouragement have inspired all participants and have added immense value to the inauguration of both the Refresher Course on Languages, Literature & Cultural Studies and the Short-Term Course on MOOCs, Online Courses, and Open Educational Resources. We are profoundly thankful for the time you have devoted to this occasion despite your busy academic and administrative engagements”.

Dr. Raman Maini appreciated Course Coordinators and Co-Coordinator of Refresher Course and Short-Term Course dedicated efforts, academic insight, and meticulous planning have been instrumental in shaping this programme into a rich and meaningful academic engagement.Dr. Maini Said that their collective hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm have made the successful commencement of both these programmes possible. We are grateful for their tireless efforts in planning, coordination, and academic leadership, which have ensured a well-organised and impactful inaugural session.

He further highlighted that the sessions of both the Refresher Course and the Short-Term Course will be conducted by eminent experts and resource persons from reputed institutions, ensuring high-quality and enriching learning experiences for all attendees. Dr. Maini emphasized that these programmes, carefully structured in accordance with UGC–MMTTC guidelines, reflect the university’s commitment to continuous professional development, academic excellence, and capacity building in the fields of Languages, Literature & Cultural Studies as well as technology-enabled learning through MOOCs and Open Educational Resources.

The Chief Guest,Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh, Vice Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala expressed gratitude toand for their efforts in organizing these programmes and securing the participation of distinguished resource persons. Prof. Singhremarked that the study of languages and literature provides deep insights into human thought, creativity, and cultural evolution. Prof. Singh underscored the importance of integrating modern digital tools, such as MOOCs online courses and Open EducationalRecourses, into teaching and research to enhance accessibility and pedagogical effectiveness. Prof. Singh stressed that technology-enabled learning can significantly support educators in broadening their academic reach and improving learner engagement. Prof. Singh appreciated MMTTC’s initiative in promoting capacity building and professional development in these significant academic domains.

The session was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Harmohinder Singh Bedi, Chancellor of the Central University of Himachal Pradeshas the GuestHonourfor inaugural session. He highlighted that Languages, Literature, and Cultural Studies play a pivotal role in shaping intellectual discourse and fostering cultural sensitivity in society. He emphasized that in an increasingly interconnected world, understanding linguistic diversity, literary expressions, and cultural narratives is essential for nurturing inclusive and informed communities. He also appreciated the growing relevance of digital learning, noting that MOOCs and Open Educational Resources have opened new avenues for knowledge dissemination and academic enrichment. Prof. Singh lauded the efforts of the Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre for organizing such meaningful and academically enriching programmes.

The Course Coordinatorof Refresher Course in Languages, Literature & Cultural Studies, Dr. Pushpinder Joshi said that this Refresher Course on “Languages, Literature & Cultural Studies” is designed to provide a comprehensive academic platform for faculty members, researchers, and scholars to deepen their understanding of linguistic structures, literary traditions, and cultural discourses. Conducted in an online mode, the course offers an enriching blend of theoretical insights and critical perspectives drawn from diverse linguistic and cultural contexts. This programme aims to enhance participants’ analytical abilities by engaging them with classical and contemporary literary theories, comparative literature, translation studies, cultural criticism, and interdisciplinary approaches. It also focuses on exploring how language and culture shape societal values, identity formations, and intellectual heritage.

The Course Coordinator ofShort-Term Course in MOOCs, Online Courses and Open Educational Resources, Daljit Ami, highlighted the objectives of the program, stressing its role inacademic and professional life.He said that Participants will explore key concepts such as instructional design for online courses, learner engagement strategies, and assessment techniques suited to digital environments. The course also highlights the importance of Open Educational Resources, enabling educators to integrate high-quality, freely accessible learning materials into their teaching practices.Through interactive sessions, demonstrations, and hands-on activities, the course equips participants with practical skills to create, curate, and implement digital learning resources. It ultimately aims to empower teachers, researchers, and academic professionals to leverage technology for enhancing teaching–learning processes and expanding educational access.

Course Co-Coordinator of Refresher Course Dr. C P Kamboj, Assistant Professor, Department of Linguistics and Punjabi Lexicography, Punjabi University, Patiala, introduced participants to the course themes and structure. He elaborated that Through interactive lectures, discussions, and reflective activities, the course encourages participants to critically interpret texts, analyze cultural patterns, and appreciate the dynamic relationship between language, literature, and society. By the end of the course, learners will be better equipped with advanced interpretative skills, cultural awareness, and academic competencies essential for teaching, research, and scholarly exploration in the humanities. At the end of the inaugural session, she proposed a vote of thanks.

During the closing remarks, Dr Maini extended heartfelt praise and gratitude to the dedicated staff members Dr. Mandeep Singh (Technical Officer-II), Dyal Dutt, Surinder Singh, Kanta Rani, Mahaveer Singh and Surinder Kumar highlighting their exemplary organizational skills and crucial contributions in the online Short-Term Course.