Central University of Jammu Organises Thursday Mind Meet

JAMMU, 14 Feb 2025: The Department of Educational Studies, Central University of Jammu, organised a panel discussion on the theme “School Education in the Jammu and Kashmir in the light of NEP 2020” under ‘Thursday Mind Meet’: a platform initiated by the CU Jammu for academic discourses on various themes. The event was organised at Pt. Malviya Shiksha Bhavan under the patronage of Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Jammu.

Prof. Jain expressed his sincere gratitude to the entire team of organizers for their persistent efforts and perseverance in making this event a huge success. He further extended that these sessions encourages participants to think critically, analyze information, and formulate their own opinions. It challenges them to consider different viewpoints and defend their own with reasoned arguments. The event was graced by the auspicious presence of the  key panellists and resource persons  Mr. Kundan Lal Dogra, Principal M.V. International School, Vijaypur, Miss Shifali GuptaMember , State Implementation Committee for NEP 2020.  Prof. Vandana Sharma, Convener of ‘Thursday Mind Meet’, CUJ, faculty members, research scholars and students.

Prof. Vandana Sharma shared various perspectives laid down by the NEP-2020 and highlighted the present system of education which is moving from a multi-disciplinary approach to a trans-disciplinary approach and how these discussions at the university level will benefit the school education system at the grass root level . Prof. Asit Mantry, Head of the Department, extended his warm wishes for this enlightening session and emphasized that effective discussions require active listening, where participants pay attention to what others are saying, ask clarifying questions, and respond thoughtfully. This fosters better listening skills and promotes understanding. He congratulated the organizing team well in their endeavors. Earlier,  Prof.  J.N. Baliya, who initiated the discussion on the key theme presented a thought provoking session and elaborated on the topic that School education in Jammu and Kashmir is undergoing a transformation in light of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.He also emphasised on holistic development, flexibility, and inclusivity is reshaping the educational landscape in the region.

 The discussion was taken forward by the key panellist, Mr. Kundan Lal Dogra who emphasized on the role of Teacher education in this sphere and the role of integrating artificial intelligence in this sphere . He also emphasized on the holistic development of students developing adaptability and survival skills  in light of NEP 2020. Further he appreciated the initiative taken by the university for discussing such enlightening topics.

Further , an in depth discussion was taken by Miss. Shifali Gupta  who elaborated that NEP 2020  aims to transform India’s education system. It is incredibly important because it addresses critical issues and sets the stage for a more relevant, holistic, and inclusive education. She further elaborated on the transitional phase of NEP 2020 in Jammu and Kashmir. Development of intellectual infrastructure by pooling resources and building Teaching- Learning Material through local craft. Significant  emphasis was given on critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and a well-rounded education that includes arts, sports, and vocational training.

The student panellist Miss Monika (Senior Research Scholar), Miss. Jyoti ( M.Ed Student )  and Ketika (Int. B.A-B.Ed Student), and Ms. Advesha (Int. B.A-B.Ed Student ) also contributed by giving significant insights over the topic including a wide range of topics , the importance of early childhood care and education (ECCE) and how NEP 2020 aims to provide quality preschool education to all children aged 3-6 years.

The words of encouragement were presented by Prof. Ritu Bakshi, Dean of Students’ Welfare, CU Jammu, where she expressed her gratitude towards the convenerfor organizing such sessions in the university ,the resource persons for enlightening the students with their valuable insights , faculty members Dr. Aman, Dr. Kiran, Dr. Ravi, Dr. Mohan , Dr. Yadram , Dr. Arushi, Dr. Arvind, scholars and students for their auspicious presence and support. The session was mediated by Shagun and  Mili Rani .