Mangaluru: The Expert Ease 2025 – Advanced Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on Innovative Pedagogic Strategies for Effective Teaching – Engage | Innovate | Transform was held on 28 and 29 November at A.J. Hospital & Research Centre, Kuntikana, Mangaluru. Organised by the A.J. Institute of Hospital Management in collaboration with A.J. Hospital & Research Centre, the two-day FDP brought together educators from healthcare and allied sectors to strengthen teaching-learning methodologies.

Inauguration marks commitment to innovative teaching

The inaugural ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest, Dr Rashmi Jain, Professor of Ophthalmology, Yenepoya Medical College. She commended the participants, noting that educators who attend FDPs “reflect the passion to constantly upgrade themselves and give their students something meaningful to take back.”

The Guest of Honour, Dr Sunitha Saldanha, Dean, YFAHP, and Professor and Head of Hospital Administration, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), appreciated the programme’s focus on innovation and academic excellence.

The event was further graced by:
• Dr Prashanth Marla K, Medical Director, A.J. Hospital & Research Centre
• Dr Amitha P. Marla, Director – Medical Administration
• Mrs Vijaya P, Principal, A.J. Institute of Hospital Management
• Mrs Averil Rebello, Associate Professor, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University)

Sessions blend theory with technology-driven teaching practice

Across seven technical sessions, expert resource persons explored a range of contemporary pedagogic themes including:
• AI-enhanced teaching tools
• Gamification techniques
• Smart assessment methods
• Flipped classroom pedagogy
• Microteaching
• OSCE/OSPE frameworks
• Reflective teaching practices

The sessions combined theoretical insights with hands-on demonstrations, enabling faculty to acquire practical tools for improving classroom engagement and instructional effectiveness.

Educators from four regions participate in the FDP

The programme saw enthusiastic participation from faculty representing Mangaluru, Udupi, Shivamogga and Goa. Delegates came from diverse disciplines such as Ayurveda, Allied Health Sciences, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Hospital Administration and Management Studies. Participants from 19 institutions attended the FDP, highlighting a strong regional commitment to enhancing teaching quality in healthcare education.

The success of Expert Ease 2025 reaffirmed the importance of continuous professional development and collaborative learning as essential pillars in strengthening academic excellence across institutions.