Pune University Focuses on Community Engagement Through Extension and Lifelong Learning

Pune, 17th October 2025: The Department of Lifelong Learning and Extension (DLLE) of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) organized a program coordination meeting and seminar on the theme “Bridging Academia and Society: The Role of Extension in Higher Education.”

The seminar was inaugurated by SPPU Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Parag Kalkar, Acting Registrar Dr. Jyoti Bhakare, and Management Council Member and Principal Dr. Nitin Ghorpade. Prof. Dr. Vilas Adhav, Director and Head of the Department of Lifelong Learning and Extension, welcomed the guests and introduced the objectives of the seminar.

While presenting the department’s annual initiatives, Prof. Adhav emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and community engagement. He shared details about various extension activities undertaken by affiliated colleges during the year.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Parag Kalkar said, “Expanding the branches of knowledge and promoting education beyond classroom walls are crucial for today’s generation. The new National Education Policy focuses on skill-based and experiential learning, and the Department of Lifelong Learning and Extension will play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.”

In-charge Registrar Dr. Jyoti Bhakare lauded the department’s work, saying that it has effectively bridged the gap between academia and society. “The department’s activities are socially relevant and impactful, truly reflecting the spirit of inclusive education,” she noted.

Chief guest Dr. Nitin Ghorpade highlighted the evolving role of teachers under the new education policy and discussed how educators can collaborate with the DLLE to design programs that enhance students’ real-world skills and social responsibility.

In the second session, program coordinators from Pune, Ahmednagar, and Nashik divisions affiliated with SPPU shared details of various extension and outreach activities implemented at their colleges during the academic year.

Seminar coordinator Dr. P. V. Gupta underlined the importance of the department’s role in promoting lifelong learning and facilitated interactions among the coordinators.

The coordinators from different colleges appreciated the approachable nature and leadership of Prof. Dr. Vilas Adhav, thanking him for his continued support and guidance.

The event was moderated by Prof. Dr. Minal Bhosale, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Prof. Dr. Sangita Salve.