Pulwama, Nov 15 : Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, during the 18th foundaton day of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) in Awantipora, lauded the institution as a hub of hope and optimism, marking a departure from traditional celebrations.
The university celebrated its foundation day with a unique focus on innovation, dedicating two days to an Academia-Industry Conclave and Technological Exposition. This initiative aimed to strengthen innovation, incubation, and startup endeavors in the Union Territory.
LG Sinha underscored the evolving landscape of higher education, praising the university’s alignment with industry needs through the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (CIED). He noted a transformative shift in the mindset of higher education institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, exemplified by the two-day conclave.
Emphasizing the changing global educational paradigm, LG Sinha urged universities to swiftly adapt to stay relevant, asserting their role as active contributors to societal transformation. He predicted that this new mindset would bridge the gap between academia and industry, ultimately elevating educational standards.
Addressing the students, LG Sinha encouraged them to seek the true essence of education. Drawing from the story of a villager named Subhas, he highlighted that genuine education leads to an understanding of higher values. Differentiating between rote learning and self-discovery, he cited examples of iconic personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Kabir Vyas, and Isaac Newton, who delved into self-awareness.
Commending the National Education Policy 2020 as a valuable gift, LG Sinha emphasized its role in keeping students and teachers informed about the latest developments and acquiring new skill sets. He applauded the Jammu and Kashmir higher education department for innovations such as project-based learning and customizable degree programs.
LG Sinha advocated for regular exchanges between academia and industry, stressing the need for every campus to become an incubator for future startups. He highlighted the paramount importance of the evolution and commercialization of innovation, calling for collaborative efforts between industry and academia. Urging universities to align their curricula with industry requirements, he emphasized reciprocal support from the industry in mentorship and practical training. LG Sinha encouraged students to pursue original ideas, becoming exemplars of creativity.
