In-Depth Discussions and Special lecture Mark Day 2 of 14th Annual International CESI Conference

Chandigarh, November 23, 2024: The second day of the 14th Annual International CESI Conference, organised by the Department of Education, Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, was marked by insightful academic discussions and special lecture, bringing together scholars and participants from across the country.

Earlier today, the plenary session on the theme ‘Understanding Punjab’ was chaired by Prof. Akshaya Kumar from the PU Department of English. The session featured eminent panelists, including Prof. Ranjit Singh Ghuman, an economist from GNDU, Amritsar; Prof. Surinder Singh Jodhka from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi; and Prof. Sukhmani Bal Riar, a historian from PU. The discussion examined Punjab’s contemporary challenges from historical, sociological, and economic perspectives. Key issues such as the political credibility crisis, economic stagnation, and a lack of visionary leadership were highlighted as factors contributing to the state’s precarious position. Despite these concerns, the panelists emphasised the enduring resilience and spirit of Punjab and its people.

The day also featured a special lecture by Padmashri Prof. Krishna Kumar on “Understanding Higher Education and Its Current Predicament.” Drawing on stories from the Panchatantra, Prof. Kumar reflected on the challenges faced by higher education in India, including the erosion of mutual trust, affection, and contemplative practices. He further noted that the excessive focus on rankings and grades, both among individuals and institutions, has compounded these challenges. Prof. Kumar emphasised the importance of fostering relationships, free dialogue, and collaborative discussions on campuses as essential for the co-creation of knowledge.

The session was chaired by Prof. Kuldeep Puri and moderated by Yamini, a research scholar at the Department of Philosophy. The lecture attracted a packed audience and was attended by distinguished figures such as Prof Arun Grover, former PU Vice-Chancellor; Atamjeet Singh; Prof. I.D. Gaud; and Prof. Furqan Qamar, former Vice-Chancellor of CUHP.

Last evening, the first day of the conference concluded with a lively cultural program in the university’s main auditorium, celebrating India’s diversity. Graced by Prof. Harsh Nayyar, former Director of RDC, and Prof. Yojna Rawat as Guests of Honour, the program showcased captivating performances by students from the Department of Education. Highlights included Kathak, Natti, Rajasthani folk dance, and the energetic Bhangra, which brought a festive close to the day’s academic discussions.

The three-day CESI conference continues to foster meaningful dialogue on critical academic and social issues.