Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu: DD, The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), University of Jammu, organised an Induction Programme for newly enrolled students of B.A. and B.Com. 1st Semester at the Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium. The programme aimed to familiarise learners with the ethos, structure, and functioning of the Centre and to motivate them as they embark on their academic journey through the distance mode.
The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by dignitaries and students, symbolising the spread of knowledge and the spirit of enlightenment that marks the beginning of every academic endeavour.
Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean, Research Studies, University of Jammu, and former Director of CDOE, delivered the keynote address as the chief guest.
Drawing from her rich academic and administrative experience, she spoke about the purpose and power of education, emphasising that universities are not only centres of knowledge but also spaces that shape character, competence, and contribution.
She underlined the need to strengthen the teacher–student bond and encouraged learners to embrace flexibility, creativity, and innovation—values that distance education naturally fosters.
Prof. Rohmetra urged students to make wise choices, remain dedicated and disciplined, and maintain a positive outlook throughout their studies. Sharing her own journey as an alumna of the University, she inspired learners to work with commitment and institutional pride, reminding them to “Think institutional, work institutional.” She also commended the CDOE faculty and staff for their continued efforts toward academic innovation and learner welfare.
Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava, Director, CDOE, welcomed the newly admitted students and assured them of the Centre’s full academic and administrative support. He shared that CDOE is celebrating its Golden Jubilee year, marking fifty years of excellence in distance education.
As part of this milestone, a series of academic, cultural, and developmental events are being organised to foster holistic growth among learners. Prof. Srivastava also highlighted that all CDOE programmes are recognised by UGC–DEB and that the Self-Learning Materials (SLMs) have been designed in line with UGC Regulations 2020.
He also introduced the Centre’s revamped website and Learning Management System (LMS) developed under the Digital India initiative to make learning more accessible. Speaking about ongoing community collaborations, workshops, and capacity-building sessions, he reaffirmed CDOE’s dedication to academic excellence and digital inclusion. Quoting Nelson Mandela, he said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” inspiring students to view learning as a lifelong transformative process.
Dr. Deepti Abrol, Teacher Incharge, B.Com. 1st Semester, presented a detailed overview of the B.Com. programme. She explained the credit system, course structure, and evaluation pattern, and guided students about the Personal Contact Programme (PCP) and Self-Learning Materials. She emphasised that distance education is learner-centric and flexible, allowing students to pursue knowledge at their own pace while balancing personal and professional responsibilities.
Dr. Sumita Sharma, Joint Registrar, CDOE, appreciated the growing participation of distance learners in co-curricular and extracurricular activities.
She reflected on the new opportunities presented by the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) and encouraged students to make full use of the diverse learning resources and support mechanisms offered by CDOE.
Earlier, Dr. Jaspal Singh, Organising Secretary and Coordinator, B.A. 1st Semester, delivered the welcome address. He greeted the students warmly and expressed pride in the University of Jammu’s NAAC A++ ranking, a testimony to its dedication to academic excellence.
He highlighted that the programmes offered by CDOE are UGC-DEB recognised, ensuring credibility, quality, and national-level opportunities for learners across India.
The gathering was also graced by Mukesh Kumar, alumnus of the M.Com. 2015–2017 batch, who shared his inspiring journey from being an internal auditor to a successful entrepreneur. He spoke about adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning as key traits for success in today’s fast-changing professional world.
To celebrate student participation, surprise gifts were presented to Sushank Kapoor (B.Com. 1st Semester) and Ajay Kumar, a special-needs student of B.A. 1st Semester, for their enthusiasm and active engagement.
Dr. Sumeet Kour, Teacher Incharge, B.Com. 1st Semester, proposed the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, faculty members, staff, and students for their contribution to the success of the event.
The programme concluded on a warm note with the distribution of refreshments among the participants.
The Induction Programme was a resounding success, leaving the newly enrolled learners inspired, confident, and well-oriented toward their academic journey. It reaffirmed CDOE’s enduring commitment to academic excellence, inclusivity, innovation, and lifelong learning within the University of Jammu’s distance education framework.DD
