'Online skill enhancement from digital platforms is now must'

Online skill enhancement from digital platforms is an immediate need for all faculty, said Prof Saikat Mitra, Vice Chancellor, Moulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology (MAKAUT).

Speaking at the end of a 5-day faculty development programme, organised by the Centre for Education Growth and Research (CEGR) at JIS University here, Mitra said all faculties irrespective of their chosen subjects should get initiated with Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain and big data.

"Classrooms should adopt self learning and peer learning mode. Students should be exposed to case studies and presentations. There should be continuous process of evaluation. In research, a spirit of purposeful research should be adopted," Mitra said.

Businesses are constantly looking for qualified, skilled and industry-ready graduates. With vacancies in government service shrinking, most graduates have a tough time to find a foothold in other sectors.

Also there is a gap between qualified faculty and their ability to engage in practical teaching that would prepare their wards for the working world, he said.

The CEGR is an independent think tank on qualitative, innovative and employability enhancing education that aids the government.

Manpreet Singh Manna, Mentor, CEGR and Director, All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), said faculty should understand the psychology of the students and keep focus on the fact that their attention span is limited, so the online training should be an interactive one and not just an ordinary presentation.

Speaking on the occasion, Sardar Taranjit Singh, MD, JIS Group said, "There is a need for Industry and Academia to work even more closely and prepare an eco system that allows students to be job prepared."