KIIT School of Liberal Studies Organizes Symposium on Foreign Language Learning in a Globalized Age

Keeping in view the growing socio-economic need for foreign language-learned technically skilled manpower worldwide, the Department of Language and Literature, School of Liberal Studies, KIIT-DU  organized a symposium titled “Speaking the Future: Foreign Language Learning in a Globalized Age” on 25^th April, 2025.

Distinguished speakers from renowned central universities of the country, i.e. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi; Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi and Visva-Bharati, Shantiniketan graced the symposium. The symposium was also graced by Prof. Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, KIIT-DU and Prof. (Dr.) Debashis Bandyopadhyay, Pro Vice-Chancellor, KIIT-DU as speakers of the inaugural session.

Dr. Dhir Sarangi, Professor, Centre for French and Francophone Studies, JNU; Dr. M. K. Natarajan, Professor & Head, Department of German Studies, BHU; Dr. Gita A. Keeni, Professor & Head, Department of Japanese, Nippon-Bhavana, Visva-Bharati; Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Associate Professor, Centre for Chinese and Southeast Asian Studies, JNU;  Dr. Satyanshu Srivastava, Assistant Professor at the Centre for Korean Studies, JNU and Dr. Sunil Kumar Patnaik, Director (Research),  Odisha Institute of Maritime & South East Asian Studies, Govt. of Odisha were among the distinguished speakers of the symposium.

Everyone emphasized the increasing importance of foreign language education in the context of global interconnectivity and employability. Prof. Saranjit Singh emphasized the global dimension of language learning and the university’s efforts to promote multilingualism. He also praised the symposium’s focus on the future of foreign language learning and its potential impact on academic institutions and society. KIIT-DU’s efforts to advance education and research in the field of foreign languages were highlighted by Prof. Bandyopadhyay.

KIIT School of Liberal Studies Organizes Symposium on Foreign Language Learning in a Globalized Age

KIIT School of Liberal Studies Organizes Symposium on Foreign Language Learning in a Globalized Age

KIIT School of Liberal Studies Organizes Symposium on Foreign Language Learning in a Globalized Age

KIIT School of Liberal Studies Organizes Symposium on Foreign Language Learning in a Globalized Age

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Dr. Dhir Sarangi stressed on the importance of Francophone cultures and their role in global pedagogy. He also addressed the challenges posed by Generative AI and thus, the need for critical engagement in teaching, mentioning the need for immersive learning through acculturation and trans-culturation. Dr. M. K. Natarajan discussed the expanding scope of German Studies in India in terms of employability and technology. He also mentioned that foreign language courses such as German can significantly enhance research collaborations and contribute to a deeper understanding of European cultures, economies, and histories.

Dr. Gita A. Keeni spoke on navigating the complexities of globalization through Bilingualism/Multilingualism. She shared insights into how Japanese language education fosters cultural immersion and intercultural understanding. Dr. Rakesh Kumar addressed the importance of studying Chinese and Southeast Asian languages in India. He stressed the strategic role these languages play in socialising, fostering diplomatic relations, economic partnerships, and cultural exchanges between India and the rest of Asia, particularly China.

Dr. Satyanshu Srivastava spoke on the growing demand for Korean language programs, and its relevance in today’s globalized world, particularly in the context of technology, media, and business. He emphasized the importance of Korean popular culture (K-pop, K-drama, K-beauty, etc.) and the ever-increasing presence of Korean Tech Giants in the Indian market and sectors such as engineering, manufacturing, etc. Dr. Sunil Kumar Patnaik delivered a talk on the historical linguistic connections between India and Southeast Asia.

Following the addresses, a Panel Discussion and Interactive Q&A session was moderated by Prof. Debashis Bandyopadhyay. The key discussion points included the integration of foreign language learning into interdisciplinary academic curricula to prepare students for global careers; the challenges faced by institutions in training foreign language educators and developing resources to support diverse language programs; the potential for digital learning platforms and virtual exchange programs to expand access to foreign language education, especially in marginalized regions; and the impact of language learning on fostering cross-cultural communication, breaking down stereotypes, and addressing issues like xenophobia and racism in global discourse.