HEC Vice Chairman highlights innovative learning at KU’s DYD mid-term meet

Srinagar, May 24: A mid-term interaction and feedback session was Friday conducted at the University of Kashmir (KU), in line with the New Education Policy NEP-2020, focused on its recently-introduced 4-year undergraduate flagship programme, Design Your Degree (DYD).

A statement of KU issued here said that Vice Chairman of the J&K Higher Education Council, Prof Dinesh Singh, who was the chief guest on the occasion urged the maiden batch of DYD students to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and capability to question.

He emphasised the significance of prioritising “how to learn” over “what to learn”.

Prof Singh highlighted the importance of thinking beyond the surface to nurture a knowledge economy, encouraging students to become proactive agents of change and innovation in society.

KU Vice Chancellor Prof Nilofer Khan, who was the guest of honour on the occasion, highlighted the importance of immersive educational experiences like DYD.

She said that KU was leading the way in implementing this innovative course, which offers students a unique opportunity to tailor their academic journey.

She appreciated the DYD’s customisable curriculum feature, which blends academic rigour with practical application.

Vice Chancellor of the University of Jammu (JU), Prof Umesh Rai also stressed the significance of DYD as a platform that allows students to pursue their passions with freedom and flexibility.

Director of the Cluster Innovation Centre (CIC) at Delhi University, Prof Shobha Bagai spoke about the empowering nature of the DYD programme, encouraging students to embrace a sense of adventure in their learning.

Dean College Development Council, KU, Prof Khursheed A Butt provided a comprehensive overview of the DYD course map.

The event was attended by the Dean School of Engineering, IoT, Prof Muzaffar Andrabi; KU Registrar, Prof Naseer Iqbal, and Special Secretary to VC, Ashfaq Zarri.

Director of IoT, Prof Tariq Banday delivered the welcome address and assured support and resource sharing to make DYD a success.

DYD Academic Coordinator, Prof Syeda Afshana conducted the proceedings and presented the vote of thanks.

DYD mentors, DYD students, and DYD Administrative Coordinator Qazi Junaid were also present on the occasion.