The Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Cell, in collaboration with the Department of Library, St. Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim, organized an Awareness and Orientation Programme on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) for all the B.Sc. students on 10th July 2026 in the College Seminar Hall. The programme was conducted from 11:15 a.m. to 12:00 noon with the objective of familiarizing students with India’s rich knowledge heritage and creating awareness about the importance of Indian Knowledge Systems in higher education under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The session was delivered by Ms. Manali Acharya, College Librarian, who presented the topic in a simple, interactive, and easy-to-understand manner. Recognizing that many students were hearing about Indian Knowledge Systems for the first time, the talk began from the very basics, explaining the evolution from people to society, society to civilization, civilization to knowledge, and finally to the concept of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS). This step-by-step approach helped students appreciate how knowledge has evolved over centuries and why India’s indigenous knowledge traditions continue to remain relevant in the modern world.

The orientation also explained why Indian Knowledge Systems have been introduced as an integral part of higher education through the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Students were made aware that the objective of IKS is not merely to study the past, but to understand India’s scientific, philosophical, cultural, and technological contributions and to integrate this wisdom with contemporary education for holistic and multidisciplinary learning.

Through an informative presentation supported by examples, students were introduced to India’s remarkable contributions in areas such as mathematics, astronomy, Ayurveda, yoga, metallurgy, philosophy, environmental sustainability, and education. The session emphasized the relevance of these traditional knowledge systems in addressing present-day challenges while promoting ethical values, critical thinking, innovation, and sustainable development.

The interactive session concluded with an engaging discussion and question-and-answer segment, where students actively participated and clarified their queries regarding the IKS curriculum and its significance in higher education. The programme successfully created awareness about the vision of NEP 2020 and inspired students to develop a deeper appreciation for India’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage.

The programme was well received by the students, who appreciated the simplified approach adopted during the orientation, making the concepts of Indian Knowledge Systems accessible, meaningful, and relevant to their academic journey.