Expert Talk

Expert lecture on Understanding Reality and Self: Yoga and Indian Schools of Thought Perspective
Date: 30 August 2025
A guest lecture entitled "Understanding Reality and Self: Yoga and Indian Schools of Thought Perspective" was held on 30th August 2025 for the first-year postgraduate students by the Centre for Indian Knowledge System at Kristu Jayanti University. Around 291 students participated in the session. The session was conducted by Dr. Anuradha Sathiyaseelan, Professor of Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, Christ University, serving as the resource person.

The lecture began with the profound question "Who am I?", which set the tone for the session. There was an engaging discussion on the answer offered by Adhi Guru Shankaracharya in Nirvana Shatakam, exploring the philosophical perspective on self-identity and realization. Dr. Anuradha introduced both the orthodox and heterodox schools of Indian thought, elaborating on their views about reality and self. Parallels were drawn between Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs theory and the Panchakosha theory, highlighting the layered nature of human needs and self-realization. The importance of self-realization in addressing self-identity crisis prevalent in modern living was emphasized. The interactive session concluded with a self-reflection meditation, encouraging participants to internalize the concepts discussed and foster greater self-awareness.

This session provided students with meaningful insights into Indian philosophies and psychological theories, equipping them to apply these perspectives in both academic and personal contexts.

Expert Lecture on Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Date: 28 August 2025
The Department of Psychology at Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be) University organised an expert lecture on Neurodevelopmental Disorders on 28th August 2025. The event took place in the A1 Conference Hall, Admin Block, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A total of 82 students from III BA Psychology A & B participated in the session.

The resource person for the session was Ms. Alphonsa Joseph, a distinguished Rehabilitation Psychologist and Head of the Psychology Department at Dr. S R Chandrashekhar Institute of Speech and Hearing, Bangalore.

Ms. Alphonsa delivered an in-depth and engaging lecture, covering the various types of neurodevelopmental disorders, their risk and causal factors, and approaches for assessment and treatment. She placed particular emphasis on the importance of considering the socio-cultural background of clients, especially in complex cases involving comorbidities, to ensure diagnostic accuracy.

A notable highlight of the session was the discussion on the role of parental involvement in therapy, which Ms. Alphonsa identified as a critical factor in enhancing the effectiveness of interventions. The session not only deepened students’ theoretical understanding but also provided practical insights into real-world therapeutic practices. Additionally, the legal dimensions of working within this field were introduced, equipping students with a broader professional perspective.

The interactive and informative nature of the lecture significantly enriched the students' academic experience and helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and clinical practice.