Mangaluru: Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) hosted a national conference titled “Digital Pedagogy: Revolutionising Teaching and Learning” at the Yendurance Zone, bringing together academicians, researchers and nursing professionals from across the country in a hybrid format.
The high-impact conference was organised jointly by the Department of Nursing Education and first-year M.Sc. Nursing students, reflecting the institution’s commitment to academic innovation and collaborative learning.
Emphasis on ethical use of Artificial Intelligence
The conference was inaugurated by Dr Larissa Martha Sams, Principal of Laxmi Memorial College of Nursing. In her keynote address, she underscored the importance of intelligently leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in education while maintaining a strong ethical framework.
She highlighted that the integration of AI in teaching and learning must be accompanied by awareness of digital ethics and responsible use of emerging technologies. Dr Sams encouraged educators and students to harness modern digital resources while preserving academic integrity and critical thinking.
Transformative education for a new generation
Dr Ashwini Dutt, Registrar of Yenepoya University, attended as the Guest of Honour. In her address, she stressed the need for transformative education tailored to the demands of the current generation. She observed that digital pedagogy must move beyond conventional online teaching and focus on enhancing engagement, accessibility and meaningful knowledge transfer.
Presiding over the function, Dr Leena KC, Dean of Yenepoya Nursing College, highlighted the rapidly evolving role of technology in nursing education. She emphasised that digital tools, when thoughtfully integrated, can significantly enhance clinical preparedness and theoretical understanding among nursing students.
Robust participation and expert sessions
The conference witnessed a significant turnout of 350 delegates from various states, participating both in-person and online. The hybrid format enabled wider academic engagement and knowledge exchange.
Scientific sessions were conducted by distinguished resource persons including Dr Rita Lakhani, Dr Roshan Fernandes, Dr Calvin Sophistus King and Dr Jarina Begum. Their deliberations addressed contemporary themes such as digital instructional design, AI-enabled learning platforms, student engagement strategies and ethical considerations in technology-driven education.
Prof. Subramanya Naik served as the observer from the Karnataka State Nursing Council, ensuring adherence to academic and professional standards.
Formal proceedings and conclusion
The programme commenced with a prayer led by Ms Munaveera, followed by a welcome address delivered by Dr Priya Reshma Aranha. The sessions were conducted with active participation from delegates, fostering interactive discussions and critical reflection on the future of digital education.
The conference concluded with a formal vote of thanks proposed by Mrs Nithyashree B.V., acknowledging the efforts of organisers, resource persons and participants.
The national conference reaffirmed Yenepoya University’s commitment to embracing innovation in education while maintaining ethical responsibility, particularly in the context of rapidly advancing digital technologies in healthcare and nursing education.