NL Corresspondent
Jammu Tawi: SAI International Education Group, one of the leading education institutions of India today hosted the fourth chapter of SAI
Thought Leadership, a series of discussion sessions with a focus on the development of the nation. Dr. Hrushikesh Senapaty, Former
Director, NCERT graced the occasion as the esteemed speaker along with Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson, SAI International Education
Group. The topic of discussion for the session was “Learning, Technology & Future Education in the 21st Century” which focused on the
emphasis on 21st century learning and NEP 2020. The brainchild of late Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, Founder Chairman, SAI International
Education Group, SAI Thought Leadership is a vital learning platform where luminaries, each a leader of prominence and trend setter in
their own field, engage in deliberation on a plethora of relevant issues and subjects with a focus on the holistic development of the
individuals and the nation. The erudite speakers, via their deeply enriching talks will not just develop civic competences, regulate thought
processes but act as pathfinders and problem solvers. Each session will be followed by a stimulating face to face conversation between the
esteemed speaker and Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson, SAI International Education Group. Speaking at the session Dr. Hrushikesh
Senapaty, Former Director, NCERT addressed the paradigm shift in learning methodologies and the role of NEP 2020 to bring a holistic
change in the education system. He explained, “With time, the definition of learning has undergone a paradigm shift. Learning was
defined as knowledge acquisition during early days and was teacher centric. In the 21st century, learning is defined as knowledge
construction and student centric. NEP has defined learning in a very different way and has a more focused approach towards
experiential learning. NEP is putting a lot of emphasis on generating consciousness on our fundamental rights and duties and to make
students aware of it.” Remarking on the need for 21st century learning he added saying “Teachers are the backbone of the education
system. This is the age of experiential learning and teachers need to act as the facilitators. I would encourage all the teachers to use the
current technology and tools to upgrade the learning process. Emphasis should be given on 21st century learning. The curriculum and
the textbooks should be redesigned to promote 21st century learning.” Addressing the session, Dr Senapaty further added, “Emotional
Quotient is more important than IQ. We must help our children to learn in a natural and social way. There should be equal weightage
given to extracurricular and co-curricular activities. Curriculum and examination will be competency based and also the learning content
will be less as suggested by NEP2020.” Dr. Silpi Sahoo humbly expressed her gratitude on behalf of all the participants to Dr. Hrushikesh
Senapaty, Former Director, NCERT for highlighting the role technology will play in shaping the future of education in India.
