Patiala, 23 July
The UGC-Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC), Punjabi University, Patiala, successfully concluded its Two-Week Online Multi-Disciplinary Refresher Course on “Social Sciences” from July 08 to July 23, 2025. Conducted in line with UGC-MHRD guidelines, the program united educators and professionals from various states and prestigious institutions across India. The course aimed to deepen participants’ academic and pedagogical expertise by exploring new perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches in Social Sciences, reflecting MMTTC’s dedication to advancing higher education through ongoing professional development.
The Valedictory Session began with the traditional Punjabi University Dhuni, followed by a warm welcome from Prof. (Dr.) Raman Maini, Director of UGC-MMTTC and Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Dr. Maini expressed deep gratitude to the Vice Chancellor, for his steadfast support and visionary leadership, which have been instrumental in the success of MMTTC programs. He extended a heartfelt welcome to the Guest of Honour, Prof. (Dr.) Upasna Joshi Sethi, Professor at the University Institute of Applied Management Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, and Honorary Director of ICSSR North-Western Regional Centre (NWRC). Dr. Maini also commended the relentless efforts of the Course Coordinator, Prof. (Dr.) Dharam Pal Singh, and Co-Coordinator, Dr. Lakhvir Singh, Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work. He described the course as a profoundly enriching academic journey, characterized by insightful lectures, cutting-edge research, and collaborative exchanges among participants from diverse disciplines. Dr. Maini highlighted that such programs act as catalysts for intellectual growth, academic collaboration, and innovation, equipping educators with advanced teaching tools and research skills. Congratulating participants on completing the course, he urged them to use this experience as a launchpad for multidisciplinary research, innovative teaching, and sustained professional and social growth.
In his message, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh, expressed pride and satisfaction at the successful completion of this MMTTC program. He emphasized the crucial role of Social Sciences in today’s fast-evolving world, noting that the course effectively equipped educators with updated knowledge, critical thinking, and multidisciplinary approaches to tackle contemporary societal challenges. He praised the course for fostering a platform for knowledge exchange, skill enhancement, and academic curiosity, and congratulated faculty, resource persons, and participants for their dedication, which made the program meaningful. He extended best wishes for their continued academic and professional success.
Prof. (Dr.) Narinder Kaur Multani, Dean of Academic Affairs, noted that amidst increasing social, political, economic, and cultural complexities, the course promoted a deeper understanding of critical issues through interdisciplinary approaches. It aimed to equip educators with analytical tools and teaching strategies to nurture critical thinking, social awareness, and academic engagement among students.
The session was enriched by an inspiring address from Prof. (Dr.) Upasna Joshi Sethi, who praised the course as a dynamic academic platform that brought together faculty from across India, fostering collaboration, intellectual exchange, and collective learning. She underscored the value of being a compassionate and socially engaged individual, a trait essential for effective educators and visionary leaders, marked by patience, empathy, and openness to diverse perspectives. Prof. Sethi also lauded Dr. Raman Maini for his dedicated leadership in organizing the course, recognizing his commitment to academic excellence.
Participants shared feedback, describing the course as a transformative experience, which added vibrancy to the concluding session.
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Prof. (Dr.) Dharam Pal Singh, Course Coordinator, expressed pride in the participants’ enthusiasm and commitment, commending their deep engagement with the course theme and collaborative efforts in addressing key Social Sciences issues. He noted that the skills gained would enable innovative teaching practices and thanked the resource persons for their expert contributions to the program’s success.
Dr. Lakhvir Singh, Co-Coordinator, described the course as a fulfilling experience, highlighting the vibrant collaboration among participants. He expressed gratitude to the organizing team, technical staff, and support personnel for ensuring smooth execution and proposed a vote of thanks.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Maini praised staff members Dr. Mandeep Singh, Dyal Dutt, Surinder Singh, Kanta Rani, Mahaveer Singh, and Surinder Kumar for their exemplary organizational efforts, ensuring seamless online sessions.
