Ideas will be new wealth of nations in 21st century: LG Manoj Sinha

Jammu, Mar 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Tuesday said that ideas would be the new wealth of nations in the 21st century and laid emphasis on collaboration to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s educational landscape.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of 'Goonj-2024' a multi-genre mega festival hosted by the University of Jammu (JU), the LG said, “In the 21st century, ideas will be the new wealth of the nations. The role of a university and college campus will expand further. They will no longer be seen as an academic institution. They will be known as the base to create young minds, who will change the world.”

He said that the university campus should be known for collaboration and inspiring creativity for change makers.

“To make it work efficiently for the benefit of society, we should focus on relevant subjects, research and innovation to contribute to the transformation of villages and towns,” LG Sinha said.

He impressed upon the teaching community to reinvent classroom learning and mentor the students to unleash their true potential.

“To make educational institutions relevant in the future, teachers should ignite the creativity within the students and make their consciousness pure, simple, easy, and independent,” the LG said. “Education should help the students develop a consciousness full of courage and it should be future-oriented. The education should inspire the students on adventurous exploration and passion for generating new ideas, new research and innovations.”

He emphasised implementing the National Education Policy 2020 in letter and spirit and connecting the young generation with India’s rich culture and ancient knowledge systems.

LG Sinha visited the photo exhibition of ‘College on Wheels’ and stalls put up by various educational institutions and departments.

He said that the ‘College on Wheels’ initiative helps students to uncover their unique and unmatched personality and achieve the potential that they can be.

The LG said that the initiative provides a lifetime opportunity for students to learn through experience, and focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and creativity.

He congratulated the entire team of JU for providing a unique platform for the students to express their creativity, showcase their talents, and engage in a dynamic learning environment.

LG Sinha called upon the universities and the educational institutions to replicate the important initiatives of JU like ‘Design Your Degree’, ‘College on Wheels’ and the Goonj programme which have become the medium of lifelong learning, discovery, and a powerful instrument to ignite creativity within.

He also released a souvenir of the fest and publications related to the ‘College on Wheels’ initiative and the project report of JU.

A documentary about ‘College on Wheels’ was showcased on the occasion.

Earlier, the LG took a salute at an impressive march past by the contingent of students and paid tributes to General Zorawar Singh.

Goonj-2024 has been curated to celebrate vibrant and diverse culture, offers educational institutions to highlight their strengths, promote collaboration and contribute to strengthening the educational landscape in J&K.

Vice Chairman Higher Education Council J&K, Prof Dinesh Singh emphasised that higher education institutions should make sure their activities and initiatives have a positive impact on society.

Vice Chancellor JU, Prof Umesh Rai and Vice Chancellor Cluster University of Jammu, Prof Bechan Lal were also present on the occasion.