CUKashmir celebrates National Education Day with panel discussion on ‘Priorities of Hr Edu in light of NEP 2020’

GANDERBAL: School of Education, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), celebrated the National Education Day 2026 by organising a panel discussion on “Priorities of Higher Education in India in the Light of NEP-2020 Recommendations” at Tulmulla campus here on Wednesday.

Highlighting the broader purpose of education, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, in his presidential address, said, it (education) must contribute to the development of the economy, progress of society and fostering leadership. Emphasising the learner-centric approach of NEP 2020, he said, “Earlier, whatever teacher used to prepare, that was his requirement. But today, you have to decide what career you want to choose.” Prof. A Ravinder Nath explained that students enter higher education with different aspirations, including employment, further education and entrepreneurship. He said that institutions must recognise these diverse pathways and provide opportunities through skill-based courses, research, professional education and enterprise.

The Vice-Chancellor said that inclusive and equitable education must take into account the ability, background and interests of each learner. He underlined the need to promote holistic and multidisciplinary learning by bringing together academics, research and outreach activities. He referred to the importance of human values, ethics and the Indian Knowledge System in shaping responsible citizens.

In his speech, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, described the rapid changes brought about by technology, digital access and artificial intelligence, and said that these developments were reshaping teaching and learning. He observed that “digital-native” students learned through multiple sources, while employers increasingly sought demonstrable skills rather than degrees alone.

“They are looking for skill sets that match their requirements,” he said, underlining the need to align academic programmes with the expectations of students and the world of work. He said artificial intelligence can assist teachers in preparing learning materials, translating content, and providing formative feedback. However, he cautioned against factual errors, fabricated references, algorithmic bias and excessive dependence on automated tools. “The question is how teachers can use AI responsibly to improve teaching and learning,” he said. He added that technology cannot replace teachers, whose role was evolving towards that of mentors and guides. He drew attention to the digital divide and urged institutions to ensure that students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds were not left behind.

Dean School of Education, Prof. C Naseema was also present.

Professor Bilal Rafiq Shah, Professor, College of Teacher Education, MANUU, Srinagar, offered a perspective on the reforms and structural changes envisaged under NEP 2020. He said the policy should be examined with a constructive outlook. He further added that reducing multiple approvals and administrative procedures could allow institutions to focus more on education and research. He also referred to real-time data and digital platforms for monitoring institutional progress. Emphasising the central role of teachers in a technology-driven education system, Prof. Shah said, “AI cannot replace teachers.” He argued that teachers must receive digital tools and training, stressing that they should be equipped before guiding students in the effective use of technology.

Registrar, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, placed the present higher education landscape in historical perspective, recalling the challenges faced by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad when he assumed responsibility for education in the early years of independent India. He observed that the country had since developed an extensive higher education network, comprising central and state universities, private and deemed universities, colleges and institutions of national importance. However, he said, expansion had not removed the concerns relating to access, equity and quality. “NEP 2020, if implemented properly, will bear good fruits in future, particularly when we talk of the employability of the students, who pass out from the higher education system,” he added.

Head, Deptt of Education, Prof. Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, said that NEP 2020 required sustained deliberations and a clear understanding of its recommendations before they could be implemented effectively. Referring to the challenges of online teaching, he said, “The face-to-face interaction is very important and we cannot replace it.” Prof. Geelani observed that the autonomy envisaged for teachers and institutions must be reflected in actual academic practice and not remain limited to policy documents. He called for meaningful student participation and timely measures to improve the teaching-learning environment.

During the panel discussion, faculty members, research scholars and students posed questions to the dignitaries about the topic. Earlier, Sr Asst Prof. Dr. Sunil M Gawande, in his welcome address, said, the objective of the panel discussion is to bring together university functionaries and academicians to deliberate on the opportunities and challenges in implementing the NEP 2020. Later, the students also performed a skit and song presentation. Sr. Asst Prof. Dr. Saima Bashir conducted the programme proceedings and Sr Asst Prof. Mr. Dinesh Kumar K, proposed the vote of thanks.