DD Correspondent
JAMMU: Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai on Tuesday called upon students to look beyond conventional classroom learning and connect their education with the needs and challenges of society, saying that meaningful learning begins when students develop the ability to question, think critically and apply knowledge to real-life situations.
Addressing the newly admitted students, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai said the Five-Year UG-PG Integrated Programme seeks to translate the spirit of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 into actual learning by giving students greater academic flexibility and exposure to experiential, peer-based and transdisciplinary learning. He said education cannot remain confined to completing a syllabus or preparing students for examinations. “The job of a teacher is not just to complete the curriculum. The job of a teacher is to create interest among students in the discipline. Once that interest is created, students will find their own path,” he said.
Prof. Rai said meaningful education must connect knowledge with the needs and challenges of society, encouraging students to work on real-life problems and explore solutions by drawing upon different areas of knowledge. Such an approach, he said, could help students develop as problem-solvers and entrepreneurs rather than merely job seekers. Referring to the University’s Design Your Degree Programme, he said the Five-Year UG-PG Integrated Programme builds upon the experience gained from an approach that places experiential learning, problem-solving and application of knowledge at the centre of education.
Stressing the need to move beyond rigid disciplinary boundaries, Prof. Rai said students, irrespective of their chosen disciplines, should develop familiarity with information technology, data, mathematical applications, coding, artificial intelligence, banking and accountancy. Referring to Vinoba Bhave’s Thoughts on Education, he underlined the importance of seeking knowledge beyond formal educational spaces and urged teachers to build learning around activities and real-world problems. Prof. Rai urged the students to make the most of their university years by exploring beyond disciplinary boundaries and developing the critical thinking, creativity and skills needed to respond to real-world challenges.
Earlier, Prof. J.P. Singh Joorel, Dean Academic Affairs, urged the newly admitted students to view university education as a journey that goes far beyond earning a degree. In a rapidly changing world, he said, knowledge must be matched by skills, critical thinking, communication and the ability to solve problems. Encouraging students to learn beyond the classroom, embrace technology wisely and see setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow, he reminded them that the person they become during their university years is as important as the degree they earn. He left the students with three guiding principles for success: dream with purpose, work hard and stay positive.
Prof. Naresh Padha, while interacting with the students, welcomed them to the University and urged them to appreciate the distinctive nature of the Five-Year UG-PG Integrated Programme envisaged under NEP 2020. Referring to the importance of institutional quality and rankings, he said that strong performance in NAAC and NIRF brings national recognition, strengthens the quality of education and encourages excellence.
He also acquainted the students with their responsibilities as members of the University, stressing regularity, discipline, consistency and commitment to learning as key to academic success. He encouraged them to make optimum use of the learning resources available on the campus, remain familiar with academic rules and programmes, and provide constructive feedback for improving the University’s quality systems. He said the University, on its part, remains committed to clearly communicating its policies and providing students with the academic and support systems required for their learning and growth.
Earlier, Dr. Ginny Dogra, in her presentation on Familiarisation with the University, introduced the students to the University and its various facilities and opportunities. The session was aimed at helping the fresh entrants understand the campus and become familiar with the academic and student support system available to them.
The programme also provided students an opportunity to interact with distinguished alumni Shri Rajesh Kumar, Regional Passport Officer, Jammu, and Col Tarun Jamwal.
Rajesh Kumar, Regional Passport Officer, Jammu, while recalling his own journey as a student of the University of Jammu, encouraged the newly admitted students to make the most of their years on the campus, both academically and beyond the classroom. Sharing experiences from his student days, he said that university life offers not only knowledge but also experiences and memories that remain with students long after they leave the campus. He urged them to develop a strong understanding of their subjects, explore the career opportunities available in their respective fields and remain open to guidance and learning throughout their academic journey. He congratulated the students on beginning a new chapter at the University and wished them a bright future.
Col Tarun Jamwal, an alumnus of the University of Jammu and volunteer with Isha Foundation, conducted an interactive session on Mental Health and Wellbeing, highlighting the need for young people to understand and manage their minds rather than be driven by distractions and habits. Drawing upon yogic practices, he introduced the students to Isha Foundation’s ‘Miracle of Mind’ meditation and led them through a brief guided meditation session aimed at helping them feel more settled and focused.
The students also took the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan pledge, reiterating their commitment towards a drug-free society. The pledge was administered by. Prof. Prakash C Antahal, Dean Students Welfare and Prof. Vivek Gupta.
The second session of the Induction Programme focused on UTSAAH – the Clubs, providing the newly admitted students an opportunity to explore the various clubs of the University and choose platforms aligned with their interests. Prof. Meena Sharma, Chairperson, UTSAAH Clubs, along with the club coordinators, interacted with the students and acquainted them with the focus, activities and opportunities offered by the respective clubs, encouraging them to identify areas that interested them and become actively involved. The clubs also showcased their activities through a series of performances and presentations, giving the students a glimpse of the diverse interests, talent and student engagement that form an integral part of campus life.
The proceedings of the Induction Programme were conducted by Mansi Mantoo, Media Officer, University of Jammu. The Induction Programme is being organised for the newly admitted students of the Five-Year UG-PG Integrated Programme to familiarize them with the academic environment, institutional practices, facilities and student activities of the University. On the second day of the programme, the students will visit various central facilities of the University to acquaint themselves with the resources and services available on the campus. The day will also include an introduction to sports and physical activities offered by the University.