Mangaluru: The inauguration of 5-day Faculty Development Programme(FDP) on the topic “Empowering Teachers with AI Skills: Building Digital Competency for Excellence in Education” organised by the School of Education, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) along with The Academic and Administrative Development Centre (AADC), in collaboration with Associationof Indian Universities held on 5th October 2026 at Sanidhya Hall of the University.
The FDP which will be held from 5th to 9th October 2026, aimed to enhance teachers’ understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and strengthen their digital competencies for the effective, responsible and meaningful integration of technology into education.
Rev. Fr. Anil I. Fernandes, the Chief Guest and inaugurator of the FDP, shared valuable insights into the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in education. He encouraged teachers to look at AI not as a replacement for educators but as a powerful tool that can support, enrich and strengthen professional teaching practices.
An overview of the FDP was presented by Dr Chandra Shekhara Shetty T, Director, Research and Development Cell and Nodal Officer, AADC, highlighted the objectives and significance of the programme, particularly the growing need for digital competency among educators in the rapidly changing educational landscape.
Dr Ronald Nazareth, the Registrar of the University, addressed the gathering and emphasised the importance of digital awareness among educators. He stressed the need for teachers to understand emerging technologies and use them responsibly to enhance teaching and learning.
Rev. Dr (Fr)Melwyn DCunha, SJ, Pro Vice-Chancellor, in his Presidential remarks shared reflections on the changing role of teachers in the digital age. He encouraged educators to remain open to technological advancements while preserving the human, ethical and value-based dimensions of education.
Delna D. Lobo, Dean, School of Education, delivered the welcome address. Sarika, Assistant Dean and Co-convener of the FDP, compered the inaugural programme.