Prof Dinesh Singh graces the Induction session of Design Your Degree Program at JU

JAMMU, September 20:  Jammu University’s “Design Your Degree” induction program was marked by the presence of distinguished academics and inspiring speeches. Prof. Dinesh Singh, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delhi and current Vice-Chairman of the J&K Higher Education Council set the stage and left an indelible mark on the proceedings, his talk revolved around the program’s core principle of openness. He emphasized that within this innovative academic journey, traditional reliance on textbooks is unnecessary. Instead, the focus should be on engaging in mind-opening conversations and pursuing intellectual growth through experiential learning. His words resonated deeply with the students, encouraging them to embrace the boundless possibilities of the program. To ignite intellectual curiosity, Prof. Singh urged students to seek answers within themselves and avoid shortcuts in life. His inspiring message underscored the importance of self-driven learning and constant expansion of horizons. Prof. Singh also stressed the practical aspects of personal and professional development, emphasizing the significance of strong communication skills in the ever-evolving global landscape. Prof. Dinesh Singh’s talk instilled a profound sense of curiosity and self-discovery among the students, setting the tone for their educational journey within the “Design Your Degree” program. As they embark on this transformative path, they carry with them the inspiration to explore, learn, and adapt, guided by the wisdom of a distinguished educator and visionary.

Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice-Chancellor of Jammu University, talked about this new course and shared information about the facilities and infrastructure provided to the students at the university.

 Prof. Alka Sharma, Director of SIIEDC, extended a formal welcome address. Earlier, Prof. Shobha Bagai, Director of Cluster Innovation Center at the University of Delhi, and the enthusiastic participants of the “Design Your Degree” program. Prof. Sharma conveyed her heartfelt appreciation to the esteemed guests for gracing the induction program with their presence, underscoring the program’s unique educational importance. Prof. Shobha Bhagai then took the stage, introducing the structure and philosophy of the program. Drawing from her personal experience of running this course in Cluster Innovation Centre, Delhi University. She eloquently outlined the program’s distinctive contours and innovative elements. Her discourse emphasized the concept of hands-on experiential learning, inspiring the students to embrace the essence and spirit of JU’s “Design Your Degree” program. Engaging in a heartfelt dialogue with the students, Prof. Bhagai delved into prospective courses and the promising opportunities they offer within the framework of the program. Her words deeply resonated with the audience, as she shared enriching experiences and showcased the success stories of previous graduates.

Dr. Shallu Sehgal delivered a gracious vote of thanks.

Jammu University (JU) ushered in a groundbreaking era of higher education on September 19, 2023, with the initiation of its pioneering “Design Your Degree” induction program. This innovative initiative is set to redefine the academic landscape by granting students unparalleled flexibility and autonomy in crafting their educational journeys. 

The inaugural session was graced by Prof. Alka Sharma, the Director SIIETC at JU. Prof. Sharma extended a warm welcome to the incoming students and faculty members from various disciplines, forming the core team behind the “Design Your Degree” program. 

Adding fervor to the occasion, Prof. Charak, the Head of the Department of Mathematics, engaged with the new students. He shared motivational insights, encouraging them to embrace the essence of interdisciplinary learning, a foundational element of this transformative program. Dr. Sadaf Shah, an Associate Professor in the Department of English, presented an in-depth overview of the “Design Your Degree” program. Her presentation delved into the program’s distinctive structure, curriculum, pedagogical methodologies, and evaluation procedures, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the innovative learning experience that awaits them.

In a spirit of unity and camaraderie, the new batch of students took the stage to introduce themselves, symbolizing the commencement of a shared academic odyssey. As an integral part of their induction, students embarked on an immersive campus tour, visiting various departments, including the Dhanvantari Library (a treasure trove of academic resources), the versatile Zorawar Singh Auditorium, the Rajinder Singh Auditorium, the museum, the Gymnasium and the canteens.

The programme was conducted by Dr Pallavi Sachdeva, Department of Lifelong, University of Jammu

 Prominent among others Prof Naresh Padha, formerly Dean Academic Affairs, Prof K S Charak, Head, Dept of Mathematics, Dr Anil Gupta, Dr Sadaf Shah , Dr Jatinder Manhas, Dr Sunil Bhougal, Dr Sandeep Arya, Dr Chinmoyee Maharana

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