JAMMU: Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, e-released the documentary based on feedback from school principals, Vidyanjali teacher in-charges, teachers, and parents. In his address, Prof. Rai emphasized the urgent need for innovative teaching methods and called on educators to engage students more effectively, fostering a deep and lasting interest in their studies.
He highlighted Vidyanjali as an exceptional platform for lifelong learning and stressed that education should be a dynamic, interactive process rather than a one-way transfer of knowledge. Prof. Rai advocated for promoting theatre to enrich students' cultural and artistic experiences and to connect them with our rich literary heritage.
Additionally, he underscored the importance of raising awareness about environmental issues by practically exposing students to real-world situations, rather than limiting such education to the classroom. He also emphasized the need to move students beyond traditional blackboard learning, noting that the true role of a teacher is to ignite curiosity and passion in their students.
Vidyanjali, a part of NEP 2020, is an initiative by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, aimed at supporting government schools through partnerships with universities, colleges, NGOs, individuals, industry, and other interested parties. It operates under mentorship and CSR domains, allowing volunteers to register on the Ministry's portal as mentors or CSR participants. Schools across the country can register on this portal to request specific assistance and support.
The event was organised by the Vidyanjali Cell, University of Jammu, hosted by the P.G. Department of Education in the Vice Chancellor’s Secretariat committee room today. A panel discussion was also held on the occasion.
This initiative was launched by the P.G. Department of Education, University of Jammu, led by Prof. Renu Nanda. It involves a human chain of volunteers, primarily focused on mentoring government schools in rural, border, and arid zone areas of the Jammu region.
Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Ajeet Sharma, CEO SAMAGRA Shiksha Abhiyan, Jammu, praised the functioning of the Vidyanjali Cell at the University of Jammu and acknowledged Prof. Renu Nanda's leadership in conducting activities in the schools of Jammu, Samba, Kathua, and Doda districts. He also emphasized the importance of collaborating with the cell to bring qualitative changes to school education.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Dr. Ana Bali, Lecturer, Department of Education. The documentary release was followed by a panel discussion. Sh. Sunil Kumar Sharma, Senior Academic Officer, SCERT, Jammu, shared his journey with Vidyanjali. Mrs. Seema, Principal, Govt. Higher Secondary School, Rangpur Maulania, R.S. Pura, Jammu, expressed her immense satisfaction with the program and her desire to continue her association with it even after retirement. Mrs. Charu Sawhney, Lecturer, Govt. Higher Secondary School, Satwari, discussed the need-based activities organized by Vidyanjali volunteers and shared experiences of interactive sessions with students to address their basic problems and find solutions. Beneficiary students from different schools also shared their experiences, detailing various activities like prayer, yoga, storytelling, role play, art and craft, sports, and games. They expressed increased confidence, self-expression, and motivation.
Ms. Rishika Sharma, a volunteer of Vidyanjali Cell and a student of the P.G. Department of Education, shared her experiences and suggested pedagogical tools for effective learning in these schools. Ms. Sheetu Meenia, a Ph.D. scholar, also shared how her life changed after connecting with the cell. Dr. Upasana Sharma, Lecturer, Department of Education, emphasized the excellent learning opportunities provided by the platform. Ms. Rakhi Atri, Lecturer, Govt. Higher Secondary School, Surinsar, credited Prof. Renu Nanda for her involvement with Vidyanjali Cell and expressed happiness with the association.
On the occasion, Certificates, medals, and cash rewards were distributed to students of Shantiniketan Bal Bhawan for their commendable performance in the “39th National Learn to Live Together Camp,” held in Mohali, Punjab, from June 24 to 29, 2024. Certificates were also awarded to the rangers and rovers of the P.G. Department of Education, University of Jammu, for completing the basic training program ‘PRATHAM SOPAN’ organized by The J&K Bharat Scouts and Guides.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Prof. Renu Nanda, Head, Department of Education and Convener of Vidyanjali Cell, University of Jammu, followed by a group photograph, participant feedback on the Vidyanjali Wall of Fame.
