Higher education opportunities in post-Covid world discussed

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, April 17

Education Minister Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ addressed an international conference virtually at Lovely Professional University (LPU) on Friday comprising management of top global universities. Occasion was one-day long virtual ‘Conference on International Higher Education Opportunities in the Post-Covid World’ organised by LPU at its campus. The Minister of Education, Government of India, Dr Pokhriyal graced the event as the chief guest.

During the conference, 12 senior academicians of the ranks of Pro Vice-Chancellors, Vice-Rectors, Directors and more from the universities of top countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Cyprus participated as the panellists. Senior management from top 9 universities of the world, including University of Pennsylvania (USA), Nottingham Trent University (UK), University of Newcastle and Curtin University (Australia), Lake head University (Canada), and AusTrade and more attended the conference for stimulating discussions.

Talking about New Education Policy of India (NEP-2020), Dr Nishank shared, “India has updated its New Education Policy for 33 crore Indian students, studying in 1,000 universities and 45,000 degree colleges- their aspirations are reflected in this NEP. This policy has been made in consultation with all the stakeholders ranging from students, teachers, scientists, NGOs. It is the biggest innovation, where participation is from everyone. It is the policy of the country for the country, by the country and of the country and we are the harbingers of the good and excellent future for every student of the country. We believe in the phrase “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family), that’s why we worry about the entire world.”

The Minister said “I am very happy that LPU has organised this dialogue with the senior policymakers of the world, and has been doing so much work in the internationalisation of education. In fact, internationalisation is a very important element in the growth and development of a university and its contribution to the country.”

While commencing on the conference, LPU Chancellor Ashok Mittal greeted Dr Pokhriyal and welcomed all delegates and participants from across the world. Mittal mentioned the pandemic as a ‘truly global crisis’; however, during this ‘online’ education has been promoted at large.

Important dialogues among the panellists, moderators and audience were held on combating the pandemic crisis; envisioning new higher education models; accepting vaccines; and, to live together afresh and stably in the post-Covid world.

Panellists were Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof Leigh Robinson of Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK; Director, English Language Programmes, Jack Sullivan from University of Pennsylvania, USA; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Global Engagement and Partnership, Dr Tony Travaglione from University of Newcastle, Australia; Pro Vice-Chancellor International, Prof Cillian Ryan from Nottingham Trent University, UK among others.

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