Distinguished guests attending the IEEE International Conference on Technology Enhanced Education had the opportunity to meet with Chancellor Amma on the first evening of the three-day conference.
Amma explained to the delegates why Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham was focussing on several e-learning projects.
“On the one hand, it is becoming difficult to find people to do traditional jobs these days. On the other hand, there are so many unemployed people. We thought that if these people learn certain skills, it will benefit society. That is how Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham began the haptics vocational training program.”
Highlighting how other e-learning projects are helping, Amma especially mentioned the fact that children in villages could be easily educated with the aid of technology.
Several delegates commented that while technology could help enhance educational opportunities, one should also focus on values.
“Science and spirituality go hand in hand,” Amma agreed. “They are like the two wings of a bird.”
“Our curriculum today is very focussed on academics,” one delegate lamented. “Our educational process is not geared towards developing good citizens.”
Stating that Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham has indeed integrated values even in institution-level education, he suggested, “Amrita should give guidance in a way that other people can understand, so that values can be built in the academic curricula.”
Another delegate invited participation from Amrita for all activities related to the National Program on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL).
“The faculty and students of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham have been very active in some NPTEL exercises,” the delegate stated. “You have a large pool of experienced educators, both from India and aboard. We solicit your active participation for creation of e-content and for other activities.”
Many delegates sought Amma’s blessings for their projects, both in education and in other sectors.
A delegate from Wockhardt Foundation shared, “We have 25 medical ambulances and 2 helicopters that will now provide emergency medical services as well as take primary healthcare to the rural masses, completely free of cost.”
Expressing happiness at the initiative, Amma also mentioned the Amrita telemedicine vans that go to remote areas and conduct medical camps.
“Our project was inspired by the Amrita telemedicine project,” the delegate replied.
“Three factors are important for achieving any goal,” Amma told the assembled guests. “The right effort made at the right time, and divine grace. If your intentions are right, you will definitely achieve your goal.”
SEE ALSO
International Conference on Technology Enhanced Education
Benedictory Address at ICTEE 2012
Nobel Laureate Speaks at ICTEE 2012 Inauguration
Vocational Education and Haptics at ICTEE 2012
A-View Showcased at ICTEE 2012
Schools’ Workshop at ICTEE 2012
Virtual Labs Workshop at ICTEE 2012
ICTEE 2012 Concludes
January 5, 2012
Amritapuri Campus
