MAHENDERGARH, 09.02.26-The Central University of Haryana (CUH), Mahendergarh inaugurated a two-week Refresher Course in Physics on 09 February 2026 at the Vande Mataram Auditorium. The programme is being conducted from 09 February to 21 February 2026 under the Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (UGC–MMTTC) in collaboration with the Department of Physics and Astrophysics. The initiative aims to strengthen subject knowledge and enhance pedagogical competencies among participating faculty members. The programme was held under the chief patronage of Prof. (Dr.) Tankeshwar Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of the University. The distinguished Chief Guest was Prof. Arvind, Professor of Physics, FNASc, IISER Mohali.

The inaugural session commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed by the University Kulgeet. The dignitaries were felicitated with the presentation of a shawl, memento, and a sapling symbolizing respect, honour, and commitment to sustainability. The dignitaries were warmly welcomed by Prof. Sunita Srivastava along with Prof. Pramod Kumar, Director, UGC-MMTTC, Central University of Haryana.

In his Presidential Address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Tankeshwar Kumar delivered a thought-provoking speech highlighting the evolution of physics across centuries. He emphasized the need for innovation in teaching practices and improved pedagogical approaches in Physics education. Drawing an engaging analogy, he connected the concept of the wheel from the era of the Mahabharata—referencing Karna’s wheel—to its modern-day applications such as wheels used in suitcases, illustrating the continuous revolution of scientific thought and innovation. He appreciated the Department of Physics and Astrophysics for successfully organizing the programme in offline mode and commended the UGC–MMTTC, CUH, for actively conducting such academic initiatives. He also praised the Department for its consistent contributions to research and teaching excellence.

In his Inaugural and Keynote Address on “The Third Quantum Revolution: Lessons for Teaching Quantum Physics,” Prof. Arvind delivered an intellectually enriching lecture tracing the historical development of quantum science and the evolution of quantum computing. He emphasized the growing global relevance of quantum technologies and encouraged the Central University of Haryana to actively pursue research in quantum computing. He underscored the transformative role of quantum science in modern research and education and stressed the importance of conceptual clarity and interdisciplinary engagement in Physics teaching.

The inaugural session witnessed the presence of several eminent academicians and distinguished guests including Dean Academic Prof. Pawan Kumar Maurya, Director IQAC Prof. Surendra Singh, Prof. Parmod Kumar, Director UGC–MMTTC, Dr. Tanu Gupta, Deputy Director UGC–MMTTC, Prof. Abir De Sarkar, Prof. A. K. Yadav - Head of the Department of Mathematics, Prof. Harish Kumar - Head of the Department of Chemistry, Prof. Vinod Kumar, Dr. Jaswant Kumar, Dr. Anshu, Dr. Meenu Thakur, Dr. Ramovatar, along with faculty members of the Department of Physics and Astrophysics and participants from various institutions.

Prof. Parmod Kumar, Director, UGC–MMTTC, delivered the Welcome Address and emphasized the importance of continuous professional development for educators in keeping pace with emerging scientific advancements. Prof. Sunita Srivastava, Programme Coordinator, presented an overview of the course, outlining its academic objectives, structure, and expected outcomes. Introducing the Chief Guest, Prof. Ankush Vij, Head of the Department of Physics and Astrophysics, highlighted the distinguished academic contributions of Prof. Arvind. The session concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Coordinator of the Refresher Course, who expressed sincere gratitude to the dignitaries, speakers, organizing committee members, resource persons, and participants for making the inaugural session a success.