Poona College Successfully Hosts Institute-Level FDP on Mahadyandeep Teacher Training Programme

In a significant step toward enhancing digital pedagogy, Poona College conducted an institute-level Faculty Development Programme (FDP) titled "Mahadyandeep: Teacher Training Programme" on February 21, 2026. Exclusively attended by staff members of the college, the one-day event drew enthusiastic participation, empowering over 90 educators to create high-quality online content.

The programme commenced at 11:00 AM with an inspiring welcome address by the In-charge Principal, who highlighted the importance of digital tools in modern teaching and commended the college's proactive adoption of NEP-aligned initiatives.

Dr. Muhammad Zuber, Coordinator of the programme and a dedicated academic librarian at Poona College, took the stage to formally introduce the chief resource person, Mr. Ganesh Lokhande. Dr. Zuber provided a comprehensive overview of the FDP's theme, explaining how Mahadyandeep bridges gaps in higher education by democratizing access to quality online courses.

Mr. Ganesh Lokhande, Director of Mahadyandeep and a visionary leader from the Higher and Technical Education Department of the Government of Maharashtra, delivered a highly enlightening session. He offered step-by-step guidance on structuring web-based courses using the proven 4-quadrant method - covering learning objectives, content, assessments, and learner support. Lokhande also demystified the submission process, detailing how the screening committee meticulously evaluates proposals based on pedagogical innovation, technical feasibility, and alignment with state curricula before granting approval.

The interactive segment featured a dynamic question-and-answer session, where Poona College staff members raised insightful queries on topics like course certification, integration with Learning Management Systems, and handling diverse learner needs. Mr. Lokhande responded with practical examples and real-world case studies from the platform, leaving participants motivated and equipped.

Dr. Shirin Shaikh extended heartfelt felicitations to the resource person, presenting a memento as a token of appreciation. The event concluded on a grateful note with the vote of thanks by Dr. Muhammad Zuber, who acknowledged the In-charge Principal's support, the resource person's expertise, and the active involvement of all staff members.

Mahadyandeep, established by the Maharashtra government and inspired by the national SWAYAM platform, stands as a cornerstone of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This robust digital portal offers free, accessible online courses, particularly in niche and minor subjects, enabling students to earn transferable academic credits at their own pace. It fosters inclusivity by reaching remote and underserved areas, with content developed collaboratively by a prestigious consortium of state universities: Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University (YCMOU), Savitribai Phule Pune University, University of Mumbai, Shivaji University Kolhapur, and SNDT Women's University. Since its launch, Mahadyandeep has enrolled thousands, significantly boosting enrollment in higher education across Maharashtra.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the FDP as "transformative" for their teaching practices. Poona College plans to leverage these skills for upcoming e-content development projects and future FDPs, solidifying its role as a leader in innovative education.

Dr. Shaikh Muhammad Zuber
Programme Coordinator