UJAA General Body Meet; VC emphasises alumni role in strengthening academic, cultural fabric of University of Jammu

JAMMU: Describing the alumni as cornerstone of the University of Jammu, Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai today sought their continued role in strengthening the academic and cultural fabric of this great institution. “An institution that does not celebrate its alumni loses the opportunity to inspire its future,” the Vice Chancellor said while addressing the General Body Meeting of the University of Jammu Alumni Association (UJAA) in the campus this evening.

The Vice Chancellor, who is also the Patron of UJAA, said the alumni are not mere former students, but the living legacy of the institution, hoping that they too will play their significant role in making their alma mater an institution of overall excellence in academics, sports, intellectual discourse and extra-curricular activities.

The Vice Chancellor urged every department to take ownership by compiling detailed alumni records and reaching out with meaningful, activity-based collaborations. Whether through mentoring, lectures, cultural events, entrepreneurship guidance, or creative arts—he stressed the need to tap into the wealth of experience that alumni across fields such as judiciary, administration, academia, and industry bring back to the University.

Highlighting the emotional connect between alumni and their alma mater, the Vice Chancellor underlined that time and contribution—not just monetary, but experiential—are the true markers of belonging. He noted that the strength of an alumni network is not built through occasional meetings but through sustained engagement and shared ownership of institutional growth.

“We do not seek your membership fee; we seek your commitment,” the Vice Chancellor said and proposed launching a series of focused outreach initiatives—like mentorship programmes—to reconnect with distinguished alumni and build a dynamic platform for collaboration. He concluded with a powerful reminder: “If we don’t take pride in our own alumni, we cannot expect others to respect our institution. Now is the time to step forward, contribute, and become the strength of the University we once called home”, he said.

Prof. Rai also made a series of key announcements to deepen alumni engagement with the institution which include provision for a self-supporting supernumerary seat in every teaching department of the University for the life members of UJAA and their wards, University Guest House to be made accessible to life members of UJAA and their guests on availability, access to the wards of life members to the University library on existing terms and conditions and access to Shri Aurobindo Gyan Kendra at Dhanvantri Library to life members of UJAA.

The GBM began with the adoption of the amended Byelaws of UJAA as notified by the Registrar of Societies, J&K UT. Among the agenda items that were discussed during the GBM included the announcement of upcoming elections to the UJAA executive body, hiring the services of a professional consultant on a contract basis to manage UJAA’s affairs and strengthen its outreach.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra highlighted the need for a deeper and more meaningful connection between the alumni and their alma mater. Prof Rohmetra called for shift from transactional engagement to transformational relationships by empowering current students to lead alumni outreach. Drawing on best practices from national institutions, she highlighted how student-led initiatives can establish strong alumni linkages that drive mentorship, placements, research, and growth.

“The real strength of an institution lies in its ability to stay connected—beyond ceremonies, beyond evaluations. If we build a culture of welcome and ask for support, our alumni will not just respond—they will uplift us,” she added. Ms. Indu Kanwal Chib, JKAS and a proud alumni of the University of Jammu urged the fellow alumni to look beyond monetary contributions and invest what truly matters—time, presence, and participation.

"No one is asking for your money—we’re asking for your time," she stressed, pointing out that involvement is a reflection of belonging. Drawing parallels with national missions like Swachh Bharat, she called for alumni engagement to be treated with the same urgency and seriousness. She urged every member present to become an ambassador of the University, take ownership of outreach, and inspire others to join.

“When we don’t show up, we silently give up the right to expect better. The University needs us—not just for what we give, but for the pride we carry as its torchbearers”. she added. On this occasion, Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar University of Jammu and Mr Deepak Gupta were felicitated for their contributions. Mr Dewpak Gupta was also offered Honorary Life membership.

Earlier, Prof Prakash Antahal, President UJAA in his welcome address gave an overview of the activities of the UJAA since its inception. He also presented the agenda items for deliberations. During the General Body Meeting , the amended Byelaws were adopted. The General Body also resolved to hold elections of the Association in the coming months.

Dr. Harleen Kaur presented the Financial Report and Audit Report of UJAA. Mr Sanjeev Kumar Rana, JKAS and Vice President UJAA delivered a formal vote of thanks. Dr. Bhagwati Devi conducted the proceedings of the event. Senior alumni, UJAA office bearers, executive members were present on the occasion.