Ganderbal, Nov 6: The Department of Education, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), organised a panel discussion on “Higher Education in India Post-NEP-2020: Challenges and Opportunities” at its Tulmulla campus on Friday, bringing together academicians and educationists to deliberate on emerging trends and reforms in higher education.
In his welcome address, Prof. Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, Head, Department of Education, highlighted key challenges confronting the sector, including the role of the National Research Foundation, digital learning, Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), and students' mental and emotional well-being.
Dr L. V. K. Reddy, Registrar, Dr B. R. Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad, discussed the challenges faced by government-run higher education institutions and their engagement with industry. He expressed concern over the growing commercialisation and privatisation of education, stressing the need to safeguard its public character, accessibility and quality.
Prof. D. Harichandan of Mumbai University highlighted CUET's role in promoting a common admission framework. He also discussed digital initiatives such as the SWAYAM platform and the potential of AI-powered tools to improve teaching, learning and academic efficiency.
Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad Patel of Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad, emphasised the need to strengthen students' mental and emotional resilience. He underlined the importance of peer support, mentoring, professional counselling, career guidance, life skills education, digital awareness, inclusiveness and self-employment opportunities.
The discussion was followed by an interactive session in which students and research scholars raised questions on NEP-2020 implementation, digital transformation, institutional reforms and student welfare.
Prof. C. Naseema, Dean, School of Education, delivered the vote of thanks. Dr Gawhar Ahmad Bhat, Assistant Professor, conducted the proceedings, while Assistant Professor Reyaz Ahmad Wani served as rapporteur.