Shimla: APG Shimla University has launched a week-long Faculty Development Program (FDP) to strengthen professional and quality education. The event, led by the Department of Science under Dr. Maninder Kaur, began on Monday, July 7, at the university campus. The theme of the program is “Emerging Trends in Shaping the Future of Education and Innovative Research.” Faculty members, department heads, and professors from various streams across the university are actively taking part in the sessions.
Prof. Dr. Ankit Thakur, Dean of the Engineering Department, served as the keynote speaker and main resource person. He emphasized the need for a learner-focused and outcome-based education model as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. According to Dr. Thakur, NEP 2020 demands a shift towards education that prepares students for real-world challenges. He stressed the importance of designing curriculum based on clear, practical learning outcomes. He added that institutions must help teachers adopt strategies that lead to measurable student success.
Prof. Thakur also explained why traditional teaching methods no longer serve today’s needs. He urged educational institutes to adapt outcome-based systems that deliver both knowledge and practical skills. According to him, such reforms are critical for building student confidence and independence in future careers. During his session, he explored key aspects of modern education. These included exam formats, open book testing, Bloom’s Taxonomy, and real-world problem-solving. Teachers and professors found the insights useful for updating their teaching methods.
He further shared that for true qualitative education, institutions must focus on solving real academic challenges. Curriculum design, he said, should aim to grow both the theoretical and practical understanding of students. This approach helps them become self-reliant professionals. The program’s second phase included the presence of APG Chancellor Engineer Suman Vikrant, Dean Academics Prof. Anand Mohan, and other senior faculty heads and deans. At the end of day two, Prof. Dr. Anand Mohan Sharma delivered a formal vote of thanks. He praised Dr. Ankit Thakur for offering deep insights on result-based learning, evaluation systems, and improving overall academic quality. The event marks a strong step by APG Shimla University towards aligning with NEP 2020 and promoting future-ready education.
