VC calls for equipping students with real-world skills—coding, IT, analytical thinking, communication
Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, DD: Calling for a fundamental shift in how education is perceived and delivered, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu Prof Umesh Rai today stressed the urgent need to equip students with real-world skills—coding, IT, analytical thinking, communication, and entrepreneurship as envisaged in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Presiding over the inaugural ceremony of the three-day Induction Programme, Prof Rai also highlighted the crucial role of the teaching community in shaping the destiny of their taught and emphasized that classroom teaching accounts for merely seven percent of the learning process, and the real responsibility of a teacher is to spark curiosity and build a student’s interest in the discipline—not just to complete the syllabus.
Prof. Umesh Rai welcomed the new students with a call to move beyond rote learning and embrace true education, saying they should break disciplinary silos and think across subjects.
He proudly highlighted how the University of Jammu is leading by example with its innovative Design Your Degree programme and the integrated Mathematical Sciences course, which blends humanities, commerce, and core sciences—demonstrating the University’s potential to become a national model.
Encouraging experiential and project-based learning, the Vice Chancellor appealed to students to dissolve the rigid boundaries between disciplines and explore projects that transcends traditional subject lines.
He called upon the students to actively engage in interdisciplinary collaborations, explore innovative ideas and participate in hands-on projects. He assured them of the University’s full support for incubation, entrepreneurship, and internship opportunities, citing success stories like Blue Planet’s selection of JU interns. “Our students are no less than those at any national university,” he declared, “what we need is the right ecosystem—and we are committed to creating it.”
Addressing the students, Sh. B. R. Sharma, IAS (Retd.), Former Chief Secretary, JKUT, and a proud alumnus of the University of Jammu, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, called for viewing university life not merely as a route to a degree, but as a transformative journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth.
Sh. Sharma urged students to explore beyond the boundaries of their disciplines, engage in critical thinking, and not shy away from failures, calling them stepping stones to success.
Recalling with nostalgia and pride his own journey at the University that began in 1977 and credited the teachers and faculty for shaping his path, he congratulated the students for reaching this pivotal stage through consistent hard work, discipline, and sacrifice — both on their part and their families.
“You have already proved your potential by reaching here. Now, you stand at the threshold of discovering how far you can truly go,” he said.
He also highlighted that education is not confined to textbooks. It is about creating knowledge, challenging the status quo, and contributing meaningfully to society. He asked the students to cherish their time at the University, build meaningful peer relationships, and seek out mentors who push them to do better. “Surround yourself with those who inspire you, collaborate, share, and above all, stay curious,” he advised.
Mr. Sharma reminded students of their vital role in shaping the future of the nation, especially as India moves towards its 100th year of independence in 2047.
“You are the agents of change in building a Viksit Bharat,” he said, urging them to dream big, stay committed, and use their education as a tool to make a real difference.
he advised. Ending on a hopeful note, he encouraged students to enjoy the journey, create something meaningful, and make their families and themselves proud.
Mr. Prashant Singh, CEO of Blue Planet, in his video message during the Centralized Induction Programme of the University of Jammu, expressed his deep gratitude for being part of the occasion and congratulated the newly admitted students on beginning a significant new chapter. Speaking on behalf of his 5,000-plus colleagues working globally to solve real-world climate and environmental challenges, he emphasized the importance of using this formative time not just for academic growth, but to evolve as compassionate and responsible individuals.
He thanked the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor and the University faculty for curating an inclusive and thoughtful platform that allows students to build meaningful bonds—ones that will enrich their lives far beyond classrooms. Urging students to make the most of their university years, Mr. Singh encouraged them to rediscover who they truly are before the world tells them who they should be. “In a world buzzing with tech revolutions and climate crises, what we need most are empathetic, value-driven human beings,” he noted. Calling the next few years a game-changer, he invited students to see this journey as a chance to prepare—not just for careers, but to face the world with awareness, purpose, and kindness.
Earlier Prof. Anju Bhasin, Dean Academic Affairs, extended a heartfelt welcome to the newly admitted students, urging them to see the University of Jammu not just as an institution but as their new home and foundation for the future. She emphasized that their presence here was not by chance, but the result of hard work and determination. Reminding students that university life is about more than just academics, she spoke of the importance of character, curiosity, and community. “This is a place to learn, grow, and contribute,” she said, highlighting the University’s commitment to nurturing not only intellectual excellence but also integrity, resilience, and ethical responsibility. Encouraging students to participate beyond the classroom—through research, culture, clubs, and service—she underlined that real education lies in lighting the fire of inquiry, not just filling the mind with information. With assurance of continuous support from the academic fraternity, she welcomed them into a vibrant, diverse learning environment.
Among others present on the occasion included Prof. Sangita Gupta, Dean Planning and Development, Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar, Deans, Rectors, Heads, Directors, faculty members and students.DD
