Innovation Hub and Space Education Centre conducts professional development programme for Science and Vocational teachers.
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DIMAPUR — In a landmark initiative to strengthen Science and Vocational education in the state, a four-day professional development programme (PDP) for Science and Vocational teachers was conducted at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, from September 16 to the 19th.
The programme was organised by the Innovation Hub and Space Education Centre, Department of Science and Technology, in collaboration with the Royal Society of Chemistry, Bengaluru, and the IQAC of Kohima Science College.
An update from Innovation Hub and Space Education Centre stated that the initiative brought together 100 Science/ Vocational teachers in two batches. The first batch comprised of 50 from government schools, while the second batch comprised of 50 from private schools.
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It stated that the participants were made to undergo a series of hands-on sessions aimed at enhancing teaching methodologies, fostering scientific inquiry and transforming classroom practices.
The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Temjenwabang, principal of Kohima Science College, Jotsoma. In his address, Dr. Temjenwabang emphasised the need for teachers to go beyond conventional classroom instruction and adopt practical, student-centered approaches. While noting that Nagaland is home to many well-qualified educators, he however cautioned against complacency in the face of a rapidly evolving education system.
He further commended the participating teachers for their dedication and acknowledged the Department of Science and Technology for initiating such a timely and empowering programme.
Onongoto Soleho, chief mentor at the Department of Science and Technology, delivered the background note. Addressing systemic challenges, he highlighted the structural and pedagogical gaps that continue to hinder the full realisation of student potential in Science, Mathematics, and Vocational learning.
Despite Nagaland’s high literacy rate, he observed that students from the state still struggled to gain admission into premier national institutions such as IITs, NITs, AIIMS etc. He stressed the urgent need for educational reform and capacity-building, stating that the PDP was curated to empower teachers to transform classrooms into hubs of curiosity, experimentation and aspiration and to prepare students to compete nationally and globally.
The sessions were led by MD Peershavali, teacher developer from the Royal Society of Chemistry, Bengaluru. The modules focused on ‘Developing active learning tools and techniques in Science,’ ‘Designing and implementing creative experimental activities in Physics, Chemistry and Biology,’ and ‘Enhancing classroom engagement through inquiry-based strategies.’
Report stated that the participants engaged in practical demonstrations, collaborative exercises and reflective discussions aimed at reimagining science education as interactive and student-driven.
The four-day programme concluded with a valedictory session featuring feedback from the participants and the distribution of certificates. It further stated that teachers have appreciated for the opportunity to learn, collaborate and strengthen their professional practices.