Pune Conference Highlights Importance of Blended Learning in Education

Pune, 18th June 2023: The second day of the National Conference on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy took place today in Pune, drawing participants from all states and union territories. The conference aimed to facilitate discussions on “Capacity Building and Training of Teachers in Blended Mode,” bringing together education representatives and experts from various fields.

Esteemed dignitaries in attendance included Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education, Prof. Suresh Gosavi, Vice Chancellor of Savitribai Phule Pune University, and senior officials from the Ministry of Education and State Education Departments.

During her address, Smt Lamchonghoi Sweety Changsan, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Education, highlighted the National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement (NISHTHA), which was extended to encompass Foundational Literacy and Numeracy in 2021-22. The program has benefited 35 lakh pre-primary, primary, and secondary level teachers, focusing on improving teaching quality and students’ learning outcomes.

Changsan also emphasized the significance of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) for the Foundational Stage, released on 20th October 2022. The framework aims to provide a common base and standardized learning outcomes across the country, strengthening pedagogical approaches.

Blended learning was another focal point of discussion, combining traditional and online methods to enhance the learning experience, effectiveness, and reach of education. Changsan stressed the importance of equipping teachers with the necessary skills and pedagogical approaches to adapt to these changes and effectively implement blended teaching methods.

Prof. Suresh Gosavi shed light on the ongoing exhibition showcasing Foundational Literacy and Numeracy practices. The exhibition features contributions from G20 countries, Indian states, corporates, international agencies, autonomous bodies, and civil society organizations. Gosavi emphasized that such forums provide an opportunity for collective growth, as no problem can be solved in isolation.

The states of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh showcased impressive practices in Foundational Literacy and Numeracy during the conference.

Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary of School Education, extended her gratitude to all the individuals involved in organizing the day’s events, delivering the vote of thanks.

The National Conference on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy in Pune serves as a crucial platform for sharing knowledge, best practices, and strategies to enhance the quality of education and ensure that every child receives a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy skills.