| Vidya inspires educators to pursue continuous learning, innovation, and professional excellence by drawing lessons from the distinguished careers and experiences of eminent personalities. Reaffirming its vision of nurturing excellence in education, Vidya hosted a distinguished lecture session on 15 June 2026. Through the wisdom and experience of a Space Science pioneer, participants explored new perspectives on leadership, innovation, quality assurancen and the enduring responsibility of educators in building a future-ready generation. |
| Padma Shri Dr M Chandradathan (Former Director VSSC, Hon. Advisor,VICT) |
| Padma Shri Dr M Chandradathan is an illustrious scientist and an alumnus of the Government Engineering College, Thrissur, whose extraordinary career led him to the highest echelons of Indian space science. A specialist in Rocket Propulsion and dedicated over four decades to the nation’s space program, earning the unique distinction of serving as the Director of three premier ISRO installations: Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR), Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) and Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).His visionary technical leadership was instrumental in the historic successes of the SLV-3, ASLV, and PSLV projects. Remarkably,he served as the Chair of the Launch Authorisation Board for India’s first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1, and contributed significantly to the development of the S200 solid booster for the GSLV Mk-III. In recognition of his exceptional service to the nation, he was awarded Padma Sri by the Government of India in 2014. His distinguished honors also include the ISRO Performance Excellence Award and the Individual Service Award presented by Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. At present, he continues to influence the technological advancement of the region in his role as Mentor (Science) to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala. His presence is a great source of inspiration for all those committed to excellence, innovation, and scientific progress. |
| The expert session ‘Lessons Learned’ handled by Padma Shri M. Chandradathan (former Director, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Hon. Advisor,VICT) offered a profound exploration of the educator’s role, emphasizing that continuous learning, dedication, and adaptability are absolute cornerstones of a successful professional life.He highlighted that modern teaching must transcend the mere mechanical transfer of factual knowledge, positioning educators as crucial architects who shape future generations by actively developing value systems, fostering creativity, and nurturing critical thinking among students. |
Drawing from his rich, real-world experiences within high-stakes scientific and research environments, the speaker illustrated how the core values of perseverance, teamwork, innovation, and accountability are vital to overcoming systemic challenges and achieving institutional milestones. Faculty members were strongly encouraged to embrace professional hurdles with a positive mindset, remain dynamically updated on emerging technologies and continuously cultivate a deep-rooted culture of excellence within their academic institutions.
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| Ultimately, the session served as a powerful catalyst for self-reflection, motivating participants to reassess their personal professional journeys while inspiring them to reach for significantly higher standards in teaching, research, and holistic student mentoring. Through this grander narrative, Padma Shri M. Chandradathan underscored the undeniable role of teachers in nation-building and societal development, reframing the day-to-day responsibilities of educators as the primary engine driving the country’s collective scientific, economic, and ethical future. |
The seamless execution and exemplary coordination of the expert session was made possible by a committed organizing team led by Dr. Sanaj M. S. (IQAC Coordinator,Prof., CSE Dept.) along with Co-Coordinators Mr. Sarath Babu Ramachandran (ISTE Coordinator, Asst. Prof. – Seln. Grade, ME Dept.) and Ms. Roshni Vijay (IEI Coordinator, Asst. Prof.,CE Dept.). Their dedicated efforts fostered a highly professional and engaging environment, enabling the insightful deliberations of Padma Shri M. Chandradathan to create a lasting impact, leaving the faculty inspired and better equipped to contribute to institutional excellence.
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| The Editorial Team of News & Events joins the entire Vidya fraternity in extending heartfelt gratitude to Padma Shri M. Chandradathan for conducting a deeply insightful session that encouraged Vidya educators to embrace challenges, stay abreast of emerging technologies and fosters a culture of excellence that empowers students and strengthens institutions !!! |
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