Nainital:
Prof. H.S. Dhami, Former Vice Chancellor of Kumaun University, Nainital, Uttarakhand, underscored the urgent need to integrate experiential learning into higher education curricula. The program was organized by the Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC) at Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, through hybrid mode under the aegis of the Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Programme of UGC and Ministry of Education, Govt. of India.
Addressing a distinguished virtual gathering of newly inducted faculty from across the country, Prof. Dhami emphasized that “experiential learning is not just a pedagogical trend but a foundational necessity for India’s higher education system to remain relevant and responsive in today’s rapidly evolving knowledge economy.” He further noted that while traditional classroom-based teaching remains important, it must be complemented with hands-on, problem-based, and project-oriented approaches that foster critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and real-world application. Citing examples from leading global education models, Prof. Dhami urged institutions to redesign curricula that align with NEP 2020’s vision of holistic and multidisciplinary education.
Chairing the valedictory session, Prof. H.C. Nainwal, Dean, School of Earth Sciences, HNB Garhwal University, made a profound statement on the irreplaceable role of teachers in the modern educational landscape. “Artificial Intelligence can replicate information, but it lacks the empathy, intuition, and human connection that a teacher brings into the classroom. Teachers possess emotional intelligence—something no algorithm can simulate,” remarked Prof. Nainwal, underlining the unique and irreplaceable value of human educators.
He elaborated that in an age where technology is rapidly transforming pedagogy, it is emotional intelligence—the ability to understand, motivate, and connect with students on a human level—that remains the core of effective teaching. He cautioned against an over-reliance on AI-driven platforms and stressed the importance of human mentorship in shaping character, values, and emotional resilience among learners.
In this month-long Guru Dakshta Program (May 13 to June 11, 2025), attended by 60 faculty participants from 19 different states of the country, the eminent educationists from various institutions and disciplines deliberated on various topics focused on equipping new faculty with values, tools, and innovative practices essential for today’s classrooms and shared their experiences. In his closing remarks, Dr. Rahul Kunwar Singh, officiating Director of the Centre, reiterated the commitment of MMTTC to promote transformative teacher training initiatives that uphold the spirit of ‘Acharya Devo Bhava’ and contribute meaningfully to national educational goals. During the session, feedback from th eparticpants were also taken.
The valedictory session was coordinated by the Assistant Director of the Centre, Dr. Somesh Thapliyal. Dr. Amar Jeet Singh and Dr. Kavita Bhatt and other staff of the centre, were also present during the session. The whole program was organized under the guidance of Prof. M.M.S. Rauthan, Vice-Chancellor, HNBGU and executed under the leadership of Dr. Rahul Kunwar Singh, the officiating Director of MMTTC, HNBGU.
