The
Institute of Aviation Studies, Srinivas University, organised a comprehensive
Five-Day Faculty Development Program (FDP) titled “Mastering Teaching:
Advancing Pedagogical Practices and Personal Well-being” from May 26 to May 30,
2025, at Aviation Campus, GHS Road, Hampankatta, Mangaluru. The event aimed to
enhance teaching methodologies, promote faculty well-being, and cultivate a
culture of excellence in higher education.
The
FDP was held under the dynamic leadership and guidance of Dr. Pavithra
Kumari, Dean, Institute of Aviation Studies and Ms. Anjana T. V.,
Head of the Department Institute of Aviation Studies and it was meticulously
coordinated by Ms. Maithri, FDP Coordinator Institute of Aviation
Studies, Srinivas University. A total of 16 faculty members from various
institutes under Srinivas University actively participated, making it an
enriching and collaborative academic initiative.
Inauguration
Ceremony:
The
inaugural function commenced with a prayer, setting a solemn tone for the
proceedings. Ms. Anjana T. V., Head of the Department, delivered the
welcome address. Following this, Ms. Maithri, FDP Coordinator outlined the
objectives and structure of the FDP. The event was graced by Dr. K.
Satyanarayana Reddy, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of Srinivas University, as the
Chief Guest. He officially inaugurated the program and led the opening session
on “Application of AI Tools in Education,” offering valuable insights
into the integration of artificial intelligence in modern pedagogy.
Highlights
of the Technical Sessions:
Day
1
continued with a thought-provoking session by Dr. Ramila Shekhar on
“Teacher as a Guide in the Information Overload Age,” underlining the pivotal
role of educators in navigating the digital landscape.
Day
2
featured a diverse set of sessions.
Dr.
Pavithra Kumari delivered a session on “Legal Awareness
for Teachers,” Focusing on equipping educators with
essential knowledge of legal responsibilities and rights within academic
institutions.
Dr.
Shrinivasa Mayya addressed “Standards and Guidelines for
Faculty Behaviour and Examination Management,” focused on
promoting ethical conduct among faculty and ensuring transparency and
efficiency in examination.
In
the afternoon Ms. Usha Roa engaging faculty members in “Decoding Our
Emotional World,” a session focused on emotional intelligence and personal
well-being.
Day
3
opened with a session by Dr. Sree Vidya and Dr. Sandeep J. on
“Essentials of Oral Health: Educating the Educator,” emphasizing the importance
of health awareness.
Mr.
Mahesh M. Nair, who enlightened the participants on
“Financial Well-being: Financial Knowledge, Discipline and Awareness,” focused
on empowering faculty with practical financial literacy, emphasizing budgeting,
saving, and informed financial decision-making for long-term stability.
Dr.
Devi Prabha Alva conducted two insightful sessions on
“Building a Culture of Respect: Understanding Gender Dynamics” and
“Understanding the POSH Act: Rights, Responsibilities, and Procedures,”
reinforcing the need for safe and inclusive works places. Focused
on fostering gender sensitivity, promoting respectful interactions, and
reinforcing the importance of creating safe, inclusive, and legally compliant
work environments.
Day
4
included a session on “Suicide Prevention – Faculty as Gatekeepers” by Dr.
Lavina M. Noronha, focusing on mental health awareness.
Second
session was followed by Dr. Veena Santhosh who spoke on “Stress
Management and Work-Life Balance.” Focused on identifying sources of stress in
academic life and exploring practical strategies to maintain mental well-being
and achieve a healthy balance between professional and personal
responsibilities.
In
the afternoon, Dr. Venkatesh S. Amin conducted a session on “Research,”
offering detailed insights into academic research methodologies.
Day
5,
the concluding day, began with a rejuvenating session on “Yoga for Physical and
Mental Well-being of Teachers,” led by Yogaratna Gopalakrishnan Belampady.
Dr.
Rahul T. J. followed with an engaging session on
“Communication Skills,” enhancing interpersonal effectiveness.
The
final technical session was conducted by Dr. Praveen B. M., who spoke on
“Importance of Plagiarism in Research,” underscoring the significance of
academic honesty and integrity.
Valedictory
Ceremony:
The
program concluded with a dignified valedictory function where the efforts of
all resource persons, coordinators, and participants were acknowledged. Ms.
Raksha, Faculty Member, Institute of Aviation Studies, delivered the Vote
of Thanks, expressing heartfelt appreciation to all involved. A token of
gratitude was presented to Dr. Praveen B. M., recognizing his
contribution to the concluding session. The event concluded on a reflective
note, symbolizing the success of a well-curated academic experience.
This
FDP not only enhanced the pedagogical knowledge of the faculty but also
emphasized their personal well-being, making it a holistic and forward-thinking
professional development initiative.