SMPL
Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], March 30: Navrachana University's School of Liberal Studies and Education (SLSE) hosted its 1st National Student Conference on "Responses from Social Sciences to New Age Eco Systems" on Friday. The event brought together students and scholars from 10 universities across India, with more than 40 research papers presented on critical issues emerging in the digital era. Around 100 delegates attended the day-long conference, filling the auditorium with energy, curiosity, and academic rigor.
The conference featured keynote lectures by Prof. Sayantan Mandal of Jawaharlal Nehru University and Prof. Sachin Ketkar of The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. Prof. Mandal highlighted the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on identity, society, and education. He cautioned against the "sachetization" of learning, AI-driven short courses that risk undermining the depth of the educational journey, and encouraged students to reflect on fundamental questions of selfhood in an increasingly digital world. Prof. Ketkar introduced the concept of digital humanities, tracing the field's evolution from the print era to today's digital landscape. He highlighted both the opportunities and challenges of AI, emphasizing four human capacities that technology cannot replace: historical depth, ethical judgment, cultural specificity, and critical self-reflexivity. His lecture provided a fresh perspective on AI, the digital space, and design as advanced humanities, inspiring students to think critically about their role in shaping the future. Adding to the conversation, Navrachana University Registrar Prof. Sandeep Vasant highlighted the importance of ethical AI practices, citing global examples of responsible use of technology.
The conference emphasized the importance of ethical AI practices and responsible use of technology. In a key moment, the Book of Abstracts was unveiled, presenting a collection of research contributions from students across India and showcasing contemporary socio-digital challenges.
Technical sessions formed the core of the conference, during which students presented their research to expert panels and engaged in rigorous academic exchange. During the valedictory ceremony, one paper from each of the four thematic tracks: Innovations in Teaching, Learning, and Student Engagement, Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Education, Media, and Digital Society, AI, Society, and Human Behaviour, and Digital Environment, Mental Health, and Wellbeing, was recognized with a Best Paper Award for originality, depth, and critical thinking.
Addressing the gathering, SLSE Dean Prof. Priyanka Behrani remarked,
"Students are not just observers of this changing digital world; they are shaping it. Platforms like this empower them to explore, question, and innovate. Their voices are critical and they should get the platform and opportunity to share their fresh perspectives."
The conference concluded by recognizing the support and guidance of the university leadership, including the Navrachana Education Society. The inaugural event underscored SLSE's commitment to fostering critical thinking, interdisciplinary dialogue, and student-led scholarship in an increasingly complex digital era.
Website link: https://nuv.ac.in/schools/liberal-studies-and-education/
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