Expert Guidance on Research Skills, Innovation, Academic Competence and Modern Research Methodologies
Ghatsila, September 26, 2026: Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, organized a special Research Workshop on September 26, 2026, with the objective of promoting quality research, innovation and academic competence among students and research scholars and enabling them to effectively utilize modern research methodologies and technological resources. The workshop focused on developing research skills among scholars, enhancing the quality and originality of research, and connecting research with social relevance and practical applications.
In the present scenario, the role of research and innovation in higher education is becoming increasingly significant. In this context, the workshop provided research scholars with insights into various practical and academic aspects of research. Detailed discussions were held on important areas such as selection of research topics, research quality, novelty, analytical approaches, academic writing, utilization of research resources, and technological proficiency.
Research Is Not Merely a Means to Obtain a Degree: Dr. Shiv Chandra Jha
The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Shiv Chandra Jha, Head, Department of Political Science, Sona Devi University. While introducing the theme and objectives of the workshop, he said that the academic identity of any university is determined not only by its teaching activities but also by the quality of its research, innovation and capacity for knowledge creation.
Dr. Shiv Chandra Jha stated that research scholars are an important foundation of the university’s research tradition. Research is not merely a formal process for obtaining a degree; rather, it is a means of discovering new knowledge, critically examining established ideas and contributing to solutions for complex social problems. Therefore, every research scholar should approach their research topic with seriousness, curiosity, discipline and a commitment to continuous learning.
He emphasized that quality research must possess originality, logical reasoning, authenticity, a scientific approach and social relevance. Research scholars need to understand that the objective of their research should not be limited to preparing a dissertation, but should also be to develop knowledge that has significance at both academic and social levels.
He further stated that in the present digital era, the nature of research is changing rapidly. Digital databases, online journals, research resources, modern technologies and various digital tools have expanded the scope of research. Therefore, along with traditional research methodologies, research scholars must also acquire modern technological and digital skills.
Expert Guidance on Research Skills, Competence and Innovation
The workshop expert, Prabin Kumar Mahato, Faculty Member, Research and HPC Division, JCERT, addressed the research scholars and discussed Research Skills, Research Competency and Innovation in detail.
He stated that a research scholar must have an in-depth understanding of their subject as well as knowledge of the scientific and systematic research process. He guided the scholars on important aspects including selection of research topics, identification of research problems, formulation of research objectives, literature review, analysis of data and facts, research findings and academic research writing.
Mr. Mahato emphasized that merely compiling available information is not sufficient in research. Researchers should critically and logically analyze existing knowledge and attempt to add new perspectives and findings to it. Highlighting the importance of innovation in research, he said that in the present competitive and technology-driven era, research becomes more effective when it is capable of examining a problem from a new perspective and making a useful contribution toward its solution.
He encouraged research scholars to continuously develop their research capabilities, remain connected with the latest academic literature, and use available technological and digital resources responsibly and effectively. During the workshop, research scholars raised various questions and shared their queries, which were addressed in detail by the expert.
Research and Innovation Are a Priority for the University: Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana
On the occasion, Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana stated that the real progress of any higher educational institution is also measured by the quality of its research and innovation. She said that Sona Devi University is committed to providing students and research scholars with an academic environment where they can think independently, develop new ideas and contribute to the field of knowledge through their research.
She said that such workshops provide research scholars with an opportunity to move beyond classroom and textbook knowledge and develop practical research skills and a modern academic outlook. She urged the scholars to apply the knowledge gained during the workshop to their research work and make their research more qualitative and effective.
Quality Research Strengthens the Academic Identity of the University: Vice-Chancellor
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua said that the role of research and innovation has become extremely important in the contemporary higher education landscape. He stated that the responsibility of a university is not limited to awarding degrees but also includes developing among students a spirit of knowledge discovery, independent thinking, analytical ability and innovation.
Addressing the research scholars, he said that they should not restrict their research work merely to the curriculum or the requirements of a degree, but should strive to connect their research with the needs of society and the nation. He emphasized the importance of regular study, serious engagement with research literature and staying updated with the latest developments in their respective fields.
The Vice-Chancellor said that Sona Devi University is working with commitment toward providing better academic opportunities to research scholars and strengthening a culture of research and innovation within the university.
Research Should Become a Means of Social and National Development: Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh
On the occasion, Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh motivated the research scholars and said that research is an important means of enriching the intellectual and knowledge capital of any nation. He stated that research scholars should give special importance to originality, quality, discipline, innovation and social concerns in their research work.
He said that the responsibility of a research scholar is not merely to gain expertise in a particular subject, but also to connect that knowledge with the broader interests of society. Research that contributes to understanding social problems, developing new solutions and bringing positive change to society has wider utility and impact.
Shri Singh further stated that the world is rapidly moving toward a technology- and knowledge-based economy. In such a scenario, it is essential to develop universities as centers of research and innovation. He said that young research scholars possess immense potential for new thinking, scientific outlook and creativity; what is required is to provide them with appropriate guidance, resources and opportunities.
He called upon the research scholars to pursue their research with the spirit of “Learn, Question, Analyze and Create New Knowledge.” He added that continuity, patience and hard work are important foundations of success in research.
Enthusiasm Among Research Scholars
The research scholars displayed considerable enthusiasm throughout the workshop. They interacted with the expert and raised various questions related to the research process, research skills, innovation, academic writing and modern technological resources. The expert addressed their queries and provided necessary suggestions to make their research work more systematic, authentic, original and effective.
The workshop provided research scholars with an opportunity to understand that quality research depends not only on knowledge of a subject but also on research skills, technological competence, critical thinking, innovation and a continuous process of learning.
Programme Concludes with a Vote of Thanks
At the conclusion of the programme, Dr. Kanchan Sinha extended her gratitude and appreciation to the expert Prabin Kumar Mahato, Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua, Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana, the faculty members of the university and all the research scholars.
She said that such workshops play an important role in providing research scholars with practical research skills along with academic knowledge. She expressed confidence that the knowledge and experience gained from the workshop would provide new direction to the scholars in their future research work and contribute to further strengthening the culture of quality research, innovation and academic excellence at the university.
Faculty members, research scholars and students from various departments of the university were present at the programme.
