IIT Gandhinagar hosts faculty from 20 countries for ITEC programme

GANDHINAGAR : Higher education experts from 20 countries have converged at IIT Gandhinagar for a two-week Faculty Development Programme for ASEAN and Global South under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs.

Running from September 14 to 25, the programme brings together faculty members and educators from Algeria, Bhutan, Cambodia, Ecuador, Egypt, Kenya, Laos, Malawi, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Trinidad and Tobago, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.

The programme aims to create a global platform for exchanging ideas on the rapidly changing higher education landscape, with sessions covering active learning, learner-centric teaching, curriculum innovation, research, innovation, international collaboration, institutional development and student well-being.

Addressing the inaugural session, IIT Gandhinagar Director Prof Rajat Moona highlighted the importance of international academic engagement. “I hope this helps us develop interesting partnerships and build relationships that help us grow as institutions,” he said, encouraging participants to experience Gujarat’s academic and cultural diversity.

Prof Amit Prashant, Dean of External Relations, said faculty roles must evolve alongside technology and changing industry needs, with higher education focusing not only on technical skills but also on students’ competencies and confidence.

Dr Frank Mwamakula of Tanzania said the programme had provided “new insights” that he could adapt at his home institution while opening avenues for international cooperation.

Participants from Vietnam and the Philippines also highlighted the value of sharing successes, challenges and academic experiences across countries.

Sessions include ‘Role of Faculty in Future of Education’, ‘Active Learning in STEM Education’, ‘Learner-Centric Approaches’ and ‘Innovations in Pedagogy and Curriculum’. Participants will also explore IITGN’s research ecosystem, startups and incubation facilities, and innovation-driven entrepreneurship.

The programme will feature visits to the Statue of Unity, Sabarmati Ashram, Rani Ki Vav, Modhera Sun Temple and GIFT City, before concluding with a valedictory function on September 25.