Poet K. Satchidanandan has called for greater interaction among academics from around the world for wider understanding of literary theory and practice. Inaugurating ‘E Prof,’ a forum for English literature professionals, here on Friday, the former Sahitya Akademi secretary said such interactions would ignite young minds and spark a healthy interest in the study of literature.
Book released
Mr. Satchidanandan also released ‘A Contemporary Encyclopaedia of British Literature’ by presenting a copy to former Vice Chancellor of the Central University of Kerala Jancy James.
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Accepting the book, Ms. James said the new forum would not only provide an interface between English literature professionals and prospective employers, but also restore the dimming sheen of literature study by incorporating 21st century methodologies and approaches in training.
Releasing the latest issue of the TLS magazine, literary critic V. Rajakrishnan, emphasised the need for the study of world literature in these days of intolerance, chauvinism and xenophobia.
Books, he said, would entice reluctant readers to engage with literature of all nations. Studies have found that only 5 per cent of highly educated, 20-24 year-old youngsters in Kerala have the skills required for employment. Jameela Begum, chairperson, curriculum committee, Additional Skill Acquisition Programme (ASAP), Government of Kerala; Meena T. Pillai, faculty member, Institute of English; Kalyani Vallath, editor of the book; and poet Babitha Justin spoke.
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