Pre-Conference Workshop on Implementation of NEP-2020 in ODL and Online Learning organised at University of Jammu

JAMMU, Mar 9: The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), University of Jammu organized a Pre-Conference Workshop on “Implementation of NEP-2020 in ODL and Online Learning: Issues and Challenges” as a curtain raiser to the upcoming two-day International Conference being held as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of CDOE. The conference is centred on the theme “Reimagining Open, Distance, Online, Blended and Self-Directed Learning: Innovations, Equity, and Impact in the Digital Era.”

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. 

The inaugural session was graced by Chief Guest Prof. K. S. Chandrasekar, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu; Guest of Honour Prof. Srilatha Chepure, Vice Chancellor, Aurora Deemed University, Hyderabad; and Special Guest Prof. Alka Sharma, Dean Business Studies and Director, SIIEDC, University of Jammu.

In his address, the Chief Guest, Prof. K. S. Chandrasekar, informed the audience about the importance of the National Education Policy (NEP-2020) and emphasised the need for its implementation in letter and spirit to infuse academic freedom, institutional innovation, and a forward-looking vision. He highlighted that universities should not restrict themselves within rigid regulatory frameworks but should actively design flexible academic programmes that respond to the evolving needs of learners. Prof. Chandrasekar further noted the rapidly growing demand for online and distance education and observed that the future of higher education will increasingly be shaped by technology-enabled learning platforms.

Guest of Honour Prof. Srilatha Chepure spoke about the evolving landscape of the Indian education system in the global context. Reflecting on the rich legacy of India’s ancient education traditions, including the Gurukul system, she noted that the reforms introduced through NEP-2020 seek to harmonize traditional strengths with contemporary educational needs. She highlighted that the policy places strong emphasis on skill development, inclusivity, and women's empowerment. She also emphasized the importance of continuous upskilling and the introduction of short-term, credit-based courses to enhance employability and lifelong learning.

Special Guest Prof. Alka Sharma deliberated on the changes being introduced in university departments in accordance with the spirit of NEP-2020. She emphasized the importance of inclusive education and remarked that institutions must make sustained efforts to retain students and create an environment that nurtures diversity and equal opportunity. Prof. Sharma also underscored the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and multidisciplinary learning, noting that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are transforming how knowledge is created and disseminated.

Earlier, Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava welcomed the dignitaries and participants, highlighted the significance of the workshop in CDOE’s Golden Jubilee celebrations and emphasized the crucial role of ODL and online learning in democratizing education and reaching learners across diverse geographical and socio-economic contexts. On the occasion, he also presented floral bouquets and mementos to the distinguished dignitaries as a token of gratitude and appreciation.

The Organising Secretary of the workshop, Prof. Anupama Vohra, from the Department of English, CDOE, introduced the objectives of the programme and stated that the workshop was conceptualized to deliberate on the effective implementation of NEP-2020 within the framework of Open and Distance Learning and online education systems.

Dr. Hina Abrol, Associate Professor, Department of History, CDOE, conducted the programme and also presented the vote of thanks.

The inaugural session was followed by technical sessions and a panel discussion featuring eminent experts.

The first session was headed by Prof. Renu Nanda, Dean Faculty of Education and Head, Department of Education, University of Jammu, who highlighted the concept of 360-degree education as envisioned in NEP-2020. Prof. Nanda also discussed the Vidyanjali initiative, underscoring its role in fostering creativity, experiential learning, and active learner participation in the educational process.

In the second session, Dr. Amit Gautam from the Department of School and Non-Formal Education, NIEPA, New Delhi, addressed the integration of digital technology in NEP-2020 and discussed the challenges posed by the digital divide.

The panel discussion included Prof. J. N. Baliya from the Department of Educational Studies, Central University of Jammu; and Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava, Director, CDOE. The session was moderated by Prof. V. V. Subrahmanyam from the School of Computer and Information Sciences (SOCIS) and Director, Centre for Online Education, IGNOU, New Delhi.

The workshop provided a valuable platform for meaningful deliberations on policy implementation, technological integration, and institutional preparedness required for strengthening Open and Distance Learning in the digital age. The discussions underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among academic institutions, policymakers, and educators to ensure equitable, accessible, and high-quality education for learners across the country.