Punjab Engineering College (Deemed to be University), Chandigarh, has taken another step towards holistic student development by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EVOLVE Society – Youth Educational Wing of ISKCON Chandigarh. Under this collaboration, two new value-based courses will be introduced: Universal Human Values (UHV) for first-year students and Life Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita as an open elective for final-year students. 

The MoU signing ceremony was graced by Prof. Rajesh Kumar Bhatia, Director, PEC, along with eminent dignitaries including Mr. Namprem Das, President, ISKCON Chandigarh; Dr. Sudesh Arya, Assistant Registrar, GMCH-32; Col. R.M. Joshi (Veteran), Registrar, PEC; Prof. S.K. Mangal, Dean Academic Affairs; and Prof. Anju Singla, Head, Centre for Medical Humanities (CMH).

Acknowledging the rising levels of tension, anxiety, stress, and emotional challenges among youth, particularly students, the UHV course aims to provide them with practical tools and values to navigate life more meaningfully and with balance. The Universal Human Values course will be a mandatory 1-credit subject for first-year students, while the Life Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita course will be offered as a 4-credit open elective in the fourth year.

The courses will be delivered by experienced instructors Mr. Radheysham Sharma, Mr. Amit Kumar, and Mr. Chandrakant Pradhan, who will blend philosophical insights with real-life applications to support students’ overall well-being, character building, and resilience.

Speaking on the occasion, Director Prof. Rajesh Kumar Bhatia emphasized that these courses will not only address academic growth but also equip students with life skills, inner strength, and emotional stability—qualities that are essential for both personal and professional success in today’s fast-paced world.