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JAMMU: The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), University of Jammu, in collaboration with the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), Jammu, today inaugurated the second batch of skill-based training programmes in Artificial Intelligence (AI) for CDOE students under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions.

The second batch comprises three courses: Fundamentals of Data Annotation using Python, Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence Technology, and Artificial Intelligence Assistant (300 Hrs).

Addressing the students, Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava, Director, CDOE, said that the University of Jammu is consistently focusing on making education more relevant, skill-oriented and responsive to the changing requirements of the professional world. He observed that in the present era of Artificial Intelligence and rapid technological transformation, academic qualifications need to be complemented with practical and industry-relevant skills.

Prof. Srivastava further highlighted that the CDOE–NIELIT collaboration has been designed particularly to benefit distance learners, including students from remote and far-flung areas who may not otherwise have easy access to technology-based training. He also appreciated the successful completion of the first batch, which recorded a 95 per cent pass percentage.

Prof. Sandeep K. Tandon, Director, CIQA, appreciated the initiative undertaken by CDOE and NIELIT and underlined the growing importance of integrating skill development with formal education. He encouraged students to take an active interest in Artificial Intelligence technology and its applications in real-world situations. He also appreciated the initiative towards creating a more skilled, confident and future-ready student community.

Dr. Rajnish Raina, Director, NIELIT Jammu, highlighted the importance of acquiring practical skills in Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies in the rapidly evolving technological environment. He appreciated the continued collaboration between CDOE and NIELIT and said that the initiative provides students an opportunity to acquire industry-oriented skills in a structured manner.

Ms. Sarita Kaur, Joint Director (Technical), NIELIT Jammu, encouraged the students to make full use of the expertise of NIELIT faculty and trainers. She stressed the importance of consistent learning and practical engagement in understanding AI-related concepts and developing useful technical competencies. She advised the students to interact with faculty, clarify their doubts and remain actively involved throughout the training period.

Dr. Parshotam Paul Singh, Assistant Professor, CDOE, University of Jammu and In-charge, NIELIT–CDOE AI Skill Courses, shared his experience of coordinating the AI skill-training initiative under the CDOE–NIELIT MoU. He highlighted the successful implementation of the first batch and its encouraging results, including the 95 per cent pass percentage. He appreciated the cooperation extended by NIELIT and its faculty in providing structured training to CDOE students.

Dr. Singh encouraged the students to pursue AI skill courses alongside their regular academic degrees and said that an additional skill set in Artificial Intelligence can provide them greater exposure to emerging areas of employment and professional development.

The programme concluded with an emphasis on regular attendance, active participation and continuous learning, with students being encouraged to make the most of the training opportunity. Faculty members and trainers from NIELIT involved in teaching the AI courses were also present on the occasion.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here