CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: “Conclusion of the Two-Day Guru Purnima Celebration at Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University”
The two-day “Guru Purnima” event organized by the ‘Indian Knowledge Tradition Cell’ at Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University concluded successfully. As per the directives of the Madhya Pradesh government, this event was observed on July 21 and 22, 2024, across all universities.
The program featured Prof. Chandra Charu Tripathi, Director of N.I.T.T.T.R. Bhopal, as the chief guest, and Dr. Mukesh Kumar Mishra, Director of Dattopant Thengdi Research Institute, Bhopal, as the keynote speaker. The event was chaired by Prof. Sanjay Tiwari, Vice-Chancellor of Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University, with Dr. Sushil Manderiya, Registrar of the university, serving as the organizer. Dr. Ratan Suryavanshi, Director of Student Support, was also present.
In his address, Dr. Chandra Charu Tripathi emphasized the significance of the guru as described in ancient scriptures. He highlighted that parents are the first teachers, and that educators should establish a distinct identity through their actions. Dr. Tripathi also noted the role of information and communication technology in education and pointed out the need for improvement in evaluation methods to enhance educational quality.
Dr. L.P. Jhariya, Director of the university, spoke on “Yoga and Knowledge,” discussing the spiritual foundation of India and the significance of the four Ashrams and Purusharthas in ancient Indian society. He also elaborated on the benefits of yoga and the various methods of acquiring knowledge.
Dr. Neelam Vasanik, Co-Director of the university, discussed the ideal characteristics of a guru, including the teachings of Swami Ramteerth and the principles of the Five Precepts of Buddha.
Dr. Sushil Kumar Dubey, Director of the university, spoke on “Innovation in Education,” focusing on the innovations introduced by the National Education Policy 2020.
Dr. Mukesh Kumar Mishra, the keynote speaker, highlighted the global recognition of India’s knowledge tradition and emphasized the importance of removing superficial layers of knowledge to reveal its true essence. He also discussed the role of the guru in guiding students from information to knowledge, and from knowledge to wisdom.
In his presidential address, Prof. Sanjay Tiwari emphasized that while worldly education provides knowledge, spiritual education instills morality, virtue, and compassion. He noted that other countries are looking at Indian educational traditions with hope and that good teachers should be able to impart knowledge effectively and provide opportunities for students to develop under their guidance.
Before concluding the event, Dr. Sushil Manderiya, Registrar and organizer, highlighted the importance of practical education alongside theoretical knowledge. He shared personal anecdotes to underscore the significance of practical wisdom.
The event was conducted by Dr. Sadhna Singh Besin, Senior Consultant at the university, with the vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Sushil Manderiya. The ceremony was attended by all university officials, students, teachers, and staff members.