Lucknow: The English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU), Lucknow Campus, organised a two-day national workshop that served as a platform for critical reflection on adult education, evolving learning environments and the growing relevance of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) in higher education.The workshop titled ‘From Teaching to Co-Creation: Anthrogogy and Indian Knowledge Traditions in the Education of Adults’ witnessed active participation from over 60 delegates, from across the country.
Sessions were conducted by Prof Geetha Durairajan, eminent scholar and former professor of EFLU, and Shree Deepa, Associate Professor at the University of Hyderabad. The sessions examined the limitations of conventional pedagogy when applied to adult learners and highlighted the need for anthrogogy, a concept coined by David Trott in 1991. Anthrogogy recognises adult learners as reflective, ethically responsible and self-directed individuals. In the context of ChatGPT and open knowledge platforms, the speakers noted that teachers can no longer be viewed as sole custodians of knowledge. Instead, their role is shifting towards facilitation, experience-sharing and igniting intellectual inquiry among learners. The workshop also foregrounded IKS, which conceptualise human life not merely as biological existence (Jeevanam), but as enhanced by Ujjivanam, or conscious awareness. Emphasis was laid on Prayojanam, the pursuit of knowledge for societal and human upliftment, leading ultimately to Anandam, or inner fulfilment. Concepts such as Trikaranashuddhi—purity of thought, word and action—and the ethical use of language for Hitam and Madhuryam were also discussed. The valedictory session, conducted by Vijaya, included participant feedback. The event also featured launch of Bharat Boudh IKS books by Vidya Bharati Uchha Siksha Sansthan.
