Udupi, July 31 – In an age where technology is reshaping every facet of life, educators must pivot toward fostering essential skills in students alongside traditional academics. This was the core message delivered by Brigadier Dr. Surjit Singh Pabla, Head of the Manipal Skill Development Centre, at the Faculty Enhancement Workshop held on Wednesday at Kakkunje Anugraha Pastoral Centre, Udupi.
The one-day workshop was jointly organized by the Manipal Skill Development Centre, Catholic Education Society of the Diocese of Udupi, and Infosys Springboard. The event brought together over 70 schoolteachers from across the district, focusing on the growing importance of digital literacy and skill-based education in today’s academic landscape.
“Technological proficiency is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity,” said Brigadier Pabla in his keynote address. “Information Technology is now a vital tool in every discipline, including education. Teachers must be well-versed in these tools to guide students effectively and prepare them for higher studies and a competitive job market.”
He further stressed that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills provide students access to global resources and improve their chances of securing better employment opportunities. The government’s increasing emphasis on digital learning and vocational training in school curricula makes it imperative for educators to stay ahead in the tech curve.
The inaugural session also featured insights from Dr. Anjayya Devineni, Registrar of the Manipal Skill Development Centre, and Rajalakshmi Anandhan, Programme Coordinator. Aishwarya Rajeev and Deeptha Padmanabhan served as expert resource persons for the day.
Rev. Vincent Crasta, Secretary of the Catholic Education Society of Udupi Diocese, welcomed the participants, setting a thoughtful tone for the event. Cynthia Menezes ably anchored the program and proposed the vote of thanks.
Throughout the day, teachers engaged in hands-on sessions focused on incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into teaching methodologies and explored innovative approaches to curriculum development. The workshop marked a significant step in empowering educators to nurture a digitally skilled generation ready to meet the demands of the 21st-century world.