University of Jammu to celebrate Foundation Day with major milestones and new initiatives

JAMMU: The University of Jammu is set to mark its Foundation Day with a celebration of significant achievements and the introduction of new initiatives that highlight its dedication to academic excellence, cultural preservation, and innovative education.

Vice Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai shared the University's impressive accomplishments, noting its rise in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF-2024), where it secured the 50th position in the University Category and 23rd among State Public Universities. He also highlighted the Business School's success, ranking 18th in The Week's Government B-School category, solidifying its reputation as a leading management institution.

In a bid to protect and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Jammu region, Prof Rai introduced "Jammuriyat," a thematic series designed to preserve,  celebrate and disseminate local traditions. This initiative not only aims to safeguard Jammu’s culture but also to strengthen the University’s connection with the community.

Prof Rai also spoke about "Goonj-2024," an initiative aimed at encouraging the holistic development of students through a combination of cultural, sports, and academic activities. He emphasized the impact of the newly implemented Samarth ERP system,  poised to enhance efficiency and transparency across the University's administrative processes.

Highlighting the University’s collaborative efforts, Prof Rai informed about the partnerships with key organizations such as the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, J&K, the FICCI Ladies Organization J&K and Ladakh Chapter, and the Airports Authority of India. These collaborations aim to advance electoral awareness, empower women, and provide students with unique internship opportunities. Additionally, new agreements with BSE Institute Limited and Growbyte IT Providers Pvt. Ltd. will further develop skills in finance and technology.

On the infrastructure front, Prof. Rai noted the completion of several major projects, including the Innovation Tower, a new facility for the Department of Journalism & Mass Media, and the Madan Mohan Malaviya Teachers’ Training Centre. The University has also embraced sustainability, implementing eco-friendly initiatives like the digitization of campus flora, the introduction of e-vehicles, and the creation of vertical gardens from recycled materials. He also shared the upcoming project of a lecturer hall complex to be constructed in the University.

In the academic arena, the University has launched the "GYANANJALI Journal," a pioneering publication for language scholars. Additionally, the Dhanwantri Library now features a QR Code System to enhance resource accessibility for both students and faculty.

In a significant academic development, Prof Rai announced the upcoming introduction of a range of undergraduate programs under the "Design Your Degree" initiative. This program, aligned with the NEP 2020, offers students the flexibility to tailor their academic journey according to their interests and career goals.

To commemorate the Foundation Day, the University will also launch its monthly newsletter "Jammu University Times", an initiative of the Media Cell of the University, which will provide updates on the University’s activities, achievements, and events, serving as a key resource for the University community.

Others who spoke during the event  included Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies who spoke of the path breaking research initiatives, including Research Policy and Research Manual, among others. Prof. Anju Bhasin, Dean Academic Affairs shared the increased integration of technology in the academics of the University through LMS, Prof. Parkash C. Anthal, Dean Student Welfare acquainted the media about the evolved format of the flagship programme of Display Your Talent taking it to zonal level for more participation by remote colleges Prof. Rahul Gupta, Registrar spoke about the various initiatives and achievements by the University marking its presence in the National Academia.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Prof. Garima Gupta, Head,  Department of Journalism and Media Studies. Among others present included with Prof. Dushyant Rai, Dr. Suvidha Khanna and Dr. Pradeep Bali.The event was well conducted by Mansi Mantoo Media Officer JU.