Event Details
A Seven-Day International Faculty Development Programme (FDP) titled “Exploring Avenues for Transformative Whole Person Education (WPE)” was jointly organized by Scottish Christian College, Kolkata in collaboration with UBCHEA. The programme was attended by Dr. Ajay D, Department of Mathematics, Dr. Makala Gandhi, PG and Research Department of Economics and Mr. Maria Micheal Nithyn A, Department of History. The FDP aimed to sensitize educators to holistic and learner-centred pedagogy in higher education. The programme brought together faculty members from diverse disciplines and provided a reflective platform to reimagine teaching and learning processes beyond conventional academic boundaries.
The FDP commenced with an inaugural session. Early sessions focused on the philosophy and foundations of Whole Person Education, highlighting the integration of intellectual, emotional, ethical, social, and spiritual dimensions of learning. The resource persons elaborated on the why, how, and what of teaching and learning within the WPE framework, enabling participants to critically examine their roles as educators.
The subsequent sessions addressed understanding learners, inclusive teaching practices, and active learning techniques. Emphasis was placed on teaching skills, exploring innovative pedagogies, and aligning curriculum with real-life relevance. Team-building sessions and discussions on identifying WPE in institutional vision and mission statements strengthened collaborative and institutional perspectives.
The programme also incorporated experiential components such as service learning, problem of practice discussions and exposure visits, reinforcing the connection between classroom learning and societal engagement. Sessions on entrepreneurship, pedagogy and faculty mentoring further enriched professional competence and personal growth. Daily mentoring sessions and peer discussions allowed participants to reflect deeply on their teaching practices and institutional responsibilities.
The programme concluded with participating colleges presenting their respective problems of practice along with concrete action plans tailored to their institutional contexts. This culminating exercise enabled institutions to translate WPE principles into practical strategies, ensuring sustained implementation and long-term impact. The FDP proved to be intellectually enriching and transformative, fostering a renewed commitment among faculty towards holistic education and meaningful institutional change.