‘Transformative Learning Requires Rethinking Pedagogy’: Prof. Samdani at Educational Innovation Symposium

The Educational Innovation Symposium 2025 (EIS25) was held on 14 November 2025 at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB), where educators, researchers, and students gathered to explore how technology is reshaping higher education. Organized by the ULAB’s Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) in collaboration with the Blended Learning Committee, the day-long event centered on the theme “Embracing Change, Empowering Learning.”

Delivering the keynote address, Professor Golam Samdani, Director of the Learning and Teaching Innovation Center at BRAC University, highlighted the urgency of pedagogical transformation. “Transformative learning requires rethinking pedagogy, not merely adding technology,” he said. “Educators must design learning experiences that allow students to take ownership of their learning process in the digital era.”

In his opening remarks, Professor Jude William Genilo, Acting Vice Chancellor of ULAB and Convener of EIS25, emphasized institutional preparedness. “ULAB’s decade-long investment in educational technology and blended learning has positioned us to lead innovation in teaching,” he stated. “This symposium is a collective platform to accelerate that momentum.”

The event featured paper presentations, panel discussions, poster sessions, and conversations around innovative curriculum, digital pedagogy, creative teaching, and assessment innovations. Participants praised ULAB for creating a platform to share emerging ideas in teaching and learning.