Dr. Avnish Jolly, Chandigarh, July 31, 2008:The issue was discussed by Professor Daljit Singh, former Chairperson and Dean, Department of Chemical Engineering & Technology, Panjab University, during a lecture to the delegates of the AICTE program on “Strategic Management for Excellence”, at the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research, Chandigarh.
Dr. Singh emphasized that Indian technical education does not promote critical thinking. Compared to the US education system, the Indian education system channelizes thinking, and stifles creativity. The curriculum and programs are highly structured, leaving little opportunity for lateral thinking. And the teachers make very little effort to stimulate independent thinking, creativity or innovation.
Professor Singh emphasized that in an era of globalization, the world of education is chanfnig rapidly, and quality education from world class educational institutions is available 24×7 in a borderless world. This presents both a challenge, and a unique opportunity. Indian educational institutes must adapt to the changing scenario, and develop new strategies to fully exploit the new opportunities.
When the winds of change blow, some build walls and resist, others see the opportunity and build wind mills. If Indian institutes are to emerge as significant global players, they must build windmills, not walls, he said.
The delegates comprised of principals, HOD’s and faculty members from professional institutes across the country. The program was coordinated by Professor Y K Anand, Head, Media Center, NITTTR, Chandigarh.