A five-day training programme on NISHTHA Educational Technology (Level-I) commenced at Shiksha Dadan, bringing together 37 teachers from all nine educational zones of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The programme, inaugurated by the Principal of the State Institute of Education (SIE), marks a significant step toward integrating modern technology into classroom practices and enhancing the digital competencies of teachers across the islands.
The NISHTHA initiative, National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement, has been designed to strengthen foundational teaching skills, promote learner-centric pedagogy, and equip educators with the knowledge required to utilise digital tools effectively. The current programme concentrates specifically on educational technology, recognising the growing need for teachers to adapt to digital content, virtual platforms, and technology-enabled learning environments.
A team of experienced Resource Persons led the sessions, sharing practical insights and technical knowledge with the participants. Experts including T Samson, Adal Arasan, Y Lakshmi Prasanna, Gaurab Dhali, Aradhana Yadav, LN Moorthy, CP Pradika, CH Srinivasa Rao, and Navin Ekka engaged the teachers in hands-on modules that covered various aspects of digital integration. Their sessions explored how technology can be used not only to deliver lessons but also to enhance learner participation, track progress, and develop interactive, high-quality educational content.
Participants were trained in methods for designing digital learning materials that are accessible, visually engaging, and aligned with curricular goals. The sessions stressed the importance of shifting from conventional teacher-led instruction to a more interactive, student-centred learning model supported by technology. Teachers were encouraged to experiment with digital tools that facilitate collaboration, critical thinking, and personalised learning experiences.
Another core focus was e-content creation, an increasingly essential skill in modern education systems. Teachers learned how to conceptualise, produce, and refine e-content suited for varied learning levels. The use of multimedia elements such as animations, audio narrations, and visual aids was emphasised to make content more appealing and effective. The sessions also covered basic principles of digital pedagogy, including accessibility considerations and structuring content for students with diverse learning needs.
The training aimed to build confidence among teachers who may be transitioning from traditional classroom methods to hybrid or fully digital modes. Trainers guided participants through demonstrations and practical tasks, ensuring that they applied new techniques immediately rather than only observing them. This approach allowed the teachers to gain familiarity with digital tools in real time, reducing apprehensions and building a foundation for sustained usage.
In addition to classroom technologies, the programme highlighted the need for continuous professional development and the importance of staying updated with evolving educational tools. Teachers discussed challenges faced in remote and resource-limited schools, including connectivity issues and device availability. The sessions encouraged them to adopt innovative workarounds and use low-cost digital solutions where required.
The programme reflects the Administration’s broader commitment to modernising the education system and equipping teachers with the skills necessary for contemporary learning environments. As students increasingly encounter digital interfaces in their daily lives, educators must be prepared to deliver lessons that resonate with these evolving expectations. Initiatives like NISHTHA Ed-Tech help bridge this gap by ensuring that teachers remain at the forefront of emerging educational practices.
Over the coming days, participants are expected to continue engaging with resource persons, refine their digital skills, and collaborate with peers from different zones. The interactions are also likely to create a network of teachers who can support each other in implementing technology-based learning across their respective schools.
