SMVDU Hosts Faculty Development Program on Universal Human Values

New Delhi, India Jul 13, 2026 ALN: The Universal Human Values (UHV) Cell, in collaboration with the Academic Affairs Section, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Katra, successfully organized a Three-Day Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on Universal Human Values (UHV-II) under the aegis of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and PM-USHA.

The programme was aimed at strengthening the understanding and practice of Universal Human Values among faculty members, thereby promoting value-based education and holistic human development in higher education institutions. The initiative is particularly significant in the context of contemporary educational challenges, where there is an increasing need for educators to foster not only academic excellence but also ethical and moral development among students.

The inaugural session commenced with a welcome address by Prof. (Dr.) Balbir Singh, Dean, Academic Affairs and University Coordinator, Universal Human Values. In his address, he highlighted the significance of Universal Human Values in nurturing ethical consciousness, responsible citizenship, and harmonious living. He emphasized that in an age of rapid technological advancement and globalization, grounding education in universal values is essential for developing well-rounded individuals who can navigate the complexities of modern society.

Prof. (Dr.) Pragati Kumar, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor, SMVDU, graced the inaugural session as the Chief Guest. Addressing the participants, he underscored the pivotal role of educators in shaping not only competent professionals but also responsible human beings. The Vice-Chancellor's remarks resonated with the core objectives of the FDP, as he encouraged faculty members to internalize the principles of Universal Human Values and integrate them into their teaching practices. This approach aims to inspire students to lead meaningful, ethical, and socially responsible lives, which is increasingly relevant in today's world where ethical dilemmas are prevalent.

The FDP featured a series of highly interactive and reflective sessions conducted by Jitender Narula, AICTE Resource Person for Universal Human Values. His expertise in the field facilitated a rich learning environment where participants could engage deeply with the content. Through engaging lectures, group discussions, experiential activities, and practical illustrations, he facilitated meaningful deliberations on themes including self-exploration, harmony within the individual, harmony in family, society and nature, ethical human conduct, and professional ethics. These themes are crucial as they encourage educators to reflect on their own values and how these can be imparted to students.

The sessions encouraged participants to reflect on the interconnectedness of values, education, and sustainable societal development. This holistic perspective is essential in the context of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the need for education to be rooted in human values and to promote critical thinking and ethical reasoning. Faculty members from SMVDU as well as various higher educational institutions across the country actively participated in the programme, highlighting a collaborative effort to enhance the educational landscape.

The FDP provided an enriching platform for intellectual exchange, collaborative learning, and self-reflection, enabling participants to explore practical strategies for integrating Universal Human Values into classroom teaching, institutional culture, and professional practice. Such integration is vital for creating a nurturing educational environment that promotes not only academic success but also personal growth and social responsibility among students.

The programme concluded with a valedictory session, during which participants shared their experiences and acknowledged the relevance of Universal Human Values in both academic and personal spheres. The feedback from participants indicated a strong appreciation for the experiential pedagogy adopted during the programme, which allowed for practical application of concepts discussed. Many expressed their commitment to incorporating value-based approaches into their teaching and mentoring practices, recognizing the long-term benefits of such integration for their students and the broader community.

The successful organization of the programme was coordinated by Dr. Madhu Mangal, Dr. Shafaq Rasool, Dr. Pooja Sharma, Dr. Amit Sinha, Dr. Bharat Bhushan Jindal, Dr. Anil Bhardwaj, and Dr. Sunny Kumar Sharma, under the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Balbir Singh. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of teamwork and shared vision in achieving educational objectives. The organizing committee expressed its sincere gratitude to AICTE, PM-USHA, the distinguished resource person, the University administration, and all the participants for their enthusiastic support and active engagement in making the programme a grand success.

The Faculty Development Programme reaffirmed SMVDU's unwavering commitment to fostering ethical leadership, human values, and holistic education in alignment with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The NEP emphasizes the need for a comprehensive educational framework that integrates values into the learning process, thereby preparing students not only for professional success but also for responsible citizenship.

By equipping educators with the knowledge and perspective to integrate Universal Human Values into higher education, the University continues to strengthen its mission of creating socially responsible, compassionate, and value-driven graduates capable of contributing meaningfully to society. The implications of this initiative extend beyond the university, as it sets a precedent for other educational institutions to follow suit, fostering a culture of ethical awareness and social responsibility in the next generation of leaders.

In conclusion, the Faculty Development Programme on Universal Human Values at SMVDU serves as a crucial step towards redefining educational priorities in India. As the nation continues to evolve, the emphasis on values-based education will play a significant role in shaping a more ethical, responsible, and harmonious society. The commitment of SMVDU to this cause reflects a broader recognition of the importance of human values in education, which is essential for addressing the challenges of the 21st century.