Research-based edu key to tackling modern challenges: Itoo

Jammu, Aug 20: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Wednesday said research-driven education is key to addressing contemporary challenges and building a knowledge-based society.The minister made these remarks while addressing a Two-Day International Conference on Emerging Trends in Multidisciplinary Research (ICETMR-2025), after its inauguration. The conference is being organised by Government Gandhi Memorial (GGM) Science College.MLA Jammu East, Yudhveer Sethi; Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department, Shantmanu; Vice Chancellor Cluster University of Jammu, Prof K S Chardrasekar; noted academician of Jammu University, Prof Rajnikant; Principal, GGM Science College Prof Romesh Kumar Gupta, eminent academicians, distinguished dignitaries, invited speakers, delegates from diverse disciplines and large number of students were also present on the occasion.In her presidential address, the Education Minister lauded GGM Science College for its commitment to academic excellence and for providing a platform to young researchers. She highlighted the importance of fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and critical thinking among researchers and students to prepare them for future global challenges.She appreciated the efforts of the faculty and administration in nurturing a culture of inquiry and encouraged them to actively contribute towards nation-building through meaningful research and innovation.”This conference is a unique platform for vibrant exchange of ideas and scholarly discussions aimed at uplifting the educational standards of Jammu & Kashmir,” she said. “The conference will bring together leading academicians, researchers, and experts from across the country and around the globe to deliberate on new frontiers of research, innovation, and knowledge exchange, which will help in shaping the academic and research ecosystem here for a long time.”Addressing the gathering, MLA, Yudhveer Sethi appreciated the College for hosting a conference of such scale, emphasising the role of youth in shaping a progressive society.Speaking on the occasion, the Additional Chief Secretary highlighted the government’s initiatives to promote innovation-driven education across Jammu and Kashmir.In his welcome address, Principal, Prof Romesh Kumar Gupta highlighted the institution’s vision of nurturing academic excellence and fostering multidisciplinary learning. Vice Chancellor Cluster University of Jammu, Prof K S Chardrasekar spoke in length about the need to strengthen research culture in higher education institutions.In his keynote address, Prof Rajnikant underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing research and inspired participants to pursue research that blends scientific innovation with societal relevance.On the occasion, the minister released the Abstract Book and the College Newsletter, reflecting the scholarly contributions of the participants. Earlier, she e-inaugurated Skill Tower hosting different Skill laboratories, Geography Block, renovated Physics and Chemistry Block of heritage Building, Conference Hall and Browsing centre for the GGM Science College.