Equip for the Future: JU VC tells students to embrace skills, not just syllabi

Jammu, Aug 5: Emphasizing a paradigm shift in the way education is delivered, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai, today underscored the urgent need to equip students with practical, real-world skills such as coding, information technology, analytical thinking, communication, and entrepreneurship, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of a three-day Induction Programme, Prof. Rai said that classroom teaching accounts for just seven percent of the learning process. “The true responsibility of a teacher is not to complete the syllabus but to spark curiosity and build a student’s interest in the discipline,” he remarked.

Prof. Rai encouraged the newly admitted students to move beyond rote learning, break disciplinary silos, and think across subjects. He cited the University’s Design Your Degree programme and the integrated Mathematical Sciences course—which blends humanities, commerce, and sciences—as key examples of how the university is becoming a model of interdisciplinary learning.

Calling for experiential and project-based learning, he urged students to take up projects that transcend traditional subject boundaries and assured full institutional support for incubation, entrepreneurship, and internships. Citing the recent success of JU interns selected by Blue Planet, he said, “Our students are no less than those at any national university—what we need is the right ecosystem, and we are committed to building it.”

1. R. Sharma, former Chief Secretary, JKUT, and an alumnus of the University, was the Chief Guest. In his address, he urged students to view university life as a journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth, rather than merely a path to a degree.

Reflecting on his own student days at the university, he said, “You’ve already proven your potential by reaching here. Now you stand at the threshold of discovering how far you can go.” He encouraged students to explore beyond textbooks, embrace failures as stepping stones to success, and contribute meaningfully to society.

He called on students to dream big and remain committed, reminding them that they are the agents of change in building a “Viksit Bharat” as India moves toward its 100th year of independence in 2047.

Brigadier Pavan Rai, Commander, 26 Artillery Division, congratulated the new students and reminded them that their journey is not just about acquiring knowledge but about shaping the future of the nation with discipline, purpose, and integrity. “Your education is your mission. Serve it with commitment, and you will lead with honour,” he said, urging students to become informed citizens and information warriors in the service of national security.

Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, described education as a process of self-refinement. She encouraged students to be empathetic, humble, and truthful, stating that success is defined not only by achievements but by character. “Learn to say no with grace, lead when needed, and know when to step back,” she said, while urging them to embrace setbacks as growth opportunities.

Prof. Prakash C. Antahal, Dean Students Welfare, gave a detailed overview of the centralised student support systems available at the University, including the Health Centre, IT facilities, NCC, NSS, central library, hostels, and sports infrastructure. He assured students of a safe, inclusive, and enabling environment that promotes holistic development.