Media Release
Udupi, Jul 25: Sharada PU College hosted a special interactive session with foreign delegates from the University of Memphis, USA, July 10. The programme began with a warm welcome by the principal Vikram Dev Prabhu, who greeted the distinguished guests and highlighted the importance of international academic collaborations.
Dr Balaji Krishnan, vice provost, international affairs professor of marketing, addressed the gathering and delivered an inspiring speech on the holistic development of students, study in the US, computational thinking & upcoming career opportunities in the US. He emphasized that education should go beyond academic excellence and focus on building character, leadership, discipline, punctuality and a sense of social responsibility. He encouraged students to actively participate in volunteer activities, stating that helping underprivileged communities and taking up leadership opportunities shape individuals into responsible citizens.
Speaking about technology, Dr Balaji Krishnan cautioned students against the excessive use of mobile phones and social media. He pointed out that endless scrolling through YouTube shorts and other short-form content reduces attention span, promotes instant gratification and prevents meaningful learning. While acknowledging that artificial intelligence is a useful learning tool, he remarked that it cannot capture a person’s true identity, values, creativity or character. He advised students to use AI wisely as a supportive tool rather than becoming dependent on it. He also explained the importance of distinguishing between the useful and the useless aspects of the internet and making conscious choices while using digital platforms.
Highlighting the value of internships, Dr Balaji Krishnan noted that they provide practical exposure, improve professional skills and instil discipline, punctuality and workplace ethics. He encouraged students to view every opportunity as a stepping stone towards becoming capable, confident and well-rounded individuals.
The session was followed by a presentation by Anindita Halder, regional head, South Asia, International Affairs, from the University of Memphis, USA. She introduced the university and explained its academic programmes, admission process, scholarship opportunities, campus facilities, research environment and the various benefits available to international students. She encourages students to explore higher education opportunities abroad and confidently prepare for global careers.
The programme concluded with an interactive question and answer session, where students enthusiastically engaged with the delegates and gained valuable insights into international education, personal development and career opportunities.
Finally, the vote of thanks was delivered by the principal. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the foreign delegates for their valuable guidance and inspiring interaction with the students. He personally contacted the foreign delegates and took the initiative to organise the programme, creating a valuable opportunity for students to explore higher education at foreign universities. The programme was successfully organised under the guidance and support of the director, U Vidyavantha Acharya.