Sahyadri College launches innovative 'Professors of Practice' lecture series

Sahyadri Arts College, affiliated with Kuvempu University in Shivamogga, has introduced a unique lecture series featuring “Professors of Practice.” This initiative brings activists, thinkers, writers, and experts from diverse fields into classrooms to share their knowledge and experiences with students.

Diverse Perspectives for Holistic Learning

The inaugural session, held on Friday, featured prominent figures such as K.T. Gangadhar, a senior farmers' movement activist; M. Gurumurthy, State convener of the Dalit Sangharsha Samiti; poet and journalist N. Ravi Kumar; writer Padmakshi K.; and physician-writer Preetham.

Each speaker addressed students from their area of expertise. Mr. Gangadhar spoke to economics students about the agricultural economy, while Mr. Gurumurthy engaged political science students with a lecture on the history and impact of the Dalit movement in Karnataka. Journalism and Mass Communication students attended a session by Mr. Ravi Kumar on “Democracy and Media.” Ms. Padmakshi explored P. Lankesh’s poem Avva with English literature students, and Dr. Preetham discussed the literary contributions of renowned Kannada writer Poorna Chandra Tejaswi.

A Broader Vision for Education

The lecture series was inaugurated by Kuvempu University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sharath Ananthamurthy, who commended the college for expanding the scope of the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) “Professors of Practice” concept. He noted that while the UGC initially envisioned this initiative for industrialists and business leaders, Sahyadri College has taken a progressive step by including individuals from social movements and other fields.

“It is important to bring in people who have been part of transformative social movements to share their knowledge with students,” Prof. Ananthamurthy emphasized.

Leadership and Support

The programme was attended by several dignitaries, including college principal Prof. Siraj Ahmed, Prof. Meti Mallikarjun, and Prof. H.P. Manjunath. Their presence underscored the institution’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.

By integrating real-world expertise into academics, Sahyadri Arts College aims to provide students with a broader understanding of societal challenges and opportunities, preparing them for both professional and civic life.

Source: The Hindu