64th All India Adult Education Conference inaugurated at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore

Indian Adult Education Association, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Shanti Ashram & Gandhigram Rural Institute jointly organize the 3-day event
The theme for the conference is “Role of Higher Education Institutions in National Education Policy 2020”; highlighting governance, implementation and responsibilities

Coimbatore, December 13, 2023 – Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, in collaboration with Indian Adult Education Association, Shanti Ashram and Gandhigram Rural Institute, inaugurated the 64th All India Adult Education Conference at the esteemed Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s campus in Coimbatore. Ranked among the top 10 universities in India according to NIRF 2023, the university will be hosting a diverse congregation of over 170 participants from across the country for this enlightening 3-day event.

The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of Chief Guest, Dr. (Tmt) Tamilisai Soundararajan, Hon’ble Governor of Telangana and Lt. Governor, Union Territory of Puducherry, alongside other distinguished dignitaries. The conference, hosted under the theme “Role of Higher Education Institutions in National Education Policy 2020 – A way ahead,” aims to explore the pivotal role of higher education institutions in shaping and implementing the transformative vision of the National Education Policy 2020. The inaugural event is followed by sessions on various topics including educational governance, effective implementation strategies, digital and health literacy, skill development for community empowerment, corporate social responsibility in education, transformative approaches, the role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), volunteerism, and gender issues.

During the inaugural event, Dr. (Tmt) Tamilisai Soundararajan, Hon’ble Governor of Telangana and Lt. Governor, Union Territory of Puducherry, said, “In the inspiring journey of education, the collective commitment of four esteemed institutions stands as a beacon for adult education and lifelong learning. Their dedication mirrors a shared vision of empowerment, fostering a society valuing continuous growth. The National Education Policy of 2020, with its emphasis on technological transformation, skill development, and entrepreneurship, aligns with the nation’s expectations. As we implement schemes like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0, the policy’s focus on vocational skill training integrates academics with practical skills. It’s a pledge to nurture resilient, compassionate individuals. The heart of the policy lies in a rock-solid foundation, embracing flexibility, innovation, and inclusivity. In higher education, a multidisciplinary approach fosters thinkers and problem-solvers. The policy celebrates linguistic diversity, ensuring quality education for every child, erasing disparities. In essence, NEP 2020 is a roadmap, envisioning a future where education is a right for every citizen, empowering, transforming, and uniting us for a brighter tomorrow. India has a great youth dividend for another two decades our potential youth should be given value-oriented education that help them to become job provider rather than job seekers.”

“In 1937, father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi realized that our country will be independent soon. For getting ready for that, he said the people should be literate. In response to this many organizations and NGO’s came up to make implement this thought, there formed the body of all India body of adult education.” Said Shri K.C. Choudhary, Advisor, Indian Adult Education Association, New Delhi

Dr. Bhavani Rao, Dean, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham spoke about Amma’s vision of education- Education for life and Education for living.

She added, as our Chancellor, Amma says there are 5 goals for education, first is the education for living, this education helps you move horizontally and vertically in any paths, it’s the education for the changing world. Second, Education that also fosters mental health. The capacity to control your thoughts and emotions so that in the community you live with cohesiveness and harmony. The third is to nurture family and society. Fourth is the attitude of gratitude. Fifth is to awaken the awareness of the inner self, this is the goal of all education. With this aim, Amrita always strives to provide with an education not only for today, but for tomorrow’s economy. You are not only limited to learning from the textbooks but to giving it back to the community. “

The conference promises to be a crucible of ideas, fostering dialogue, and inspiring actionable strategies to propel adult education forward in alignment with the nation’s educational aspirations. The event brings together thought leaders, academics, development professionals, educationists, social workers, administrators, and individuals at the forefront of implementing the National Education Policy 2020. With a focus on fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, the conference aims to create a platform for comprehensive discourse and exploration of innovative approaches to address the evolving landscape of adult education.