Katra, Aug 19: Emphasising the imperative for universities to evolve in response to the shifting educational landscape, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha underscored that traditional education models are giving way to a recalibrated approach, designed to equip students with the skills and resilience required to navigate an uncertain future.
“This call for adaptation comes as universities worldwide grapple with the transformative impact of emerging technologies and societal changes,” he said.
During the event, the Lt. Governor marked the occasion by laying the foundation stones for infrastructural projects amounting to Rs 70 crore.
Addressing the gathering the 20th Foundation Day celebration of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), at Matrika Auditorium , Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha extended his congratulations to the students, faculty, and staff members of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, acknowledging the university’s remarkable contributions to the education sector. He praised the institution for nurturing students and playing a significant role in the country’s knowledge economy over the last two decades.
“SMVDU has nurtured students, served the knowledge economy of the country with great distinction and aspires to empower the young generation,” said the Lt. Governor, highlighting the university’s achievements.
“Education awakens the mind. It offers the ability to question the status quo and the questions sow the seeds of growth. It is the responsibility of our Universities and teaching community to prepare enlightened citizens through research, inquiry, creativity, innovation and contribute to realize the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’,” he said.
Reflecting on the evolving technological landscape, the Lt. Governor remarked on the impact of cutting-edge tools like Artificial Intelligence and new technologies on society. He noted that these advancements have fostered social equality and revolutionized the way knowledge is collected, processed, and applied for the betterment of the world.
Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha advised universities to adapt to the changing landscape, stressing that the traditional education model will give way to a recalibrated approach. He asserted that this recalibration would equip students with the skills and abilities needed to thrive in an uncertain future.
“We are living in the world of surprises where the only constant in life is change. But, the biggest challenge is to prepare students for the jobs that don’t yet exist. We need to provide them with skills that will remain relevant and complement the growing pace of change,” he added.
Speaking about the shift from an agrarian to a knowledge-based society, the Lt. Governor highlighted the journey from raw materials to knowledge products. He emphasized that innovation and research would become integral pillars of universities, shaping their role in society.
Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha discussed the significant features of the National Education Policy 2020, which he described as a key to unlocking the potential of basic knowledge, applied skills, critical thinking, collaboration, leadership, creativity, innovation, and lifelong learning. He stressed the importance of fostering a stronger industry-academic relationship, particularly as manufacturing trends shift towards automation.
Later, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha felicitated students who excelled in various competitions. Prof. (Dr.) Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor of SMVDU, presented the university’s achievements and initiatives aimed at holistic student development.
The event was attended by Mahamandleshwar Shri Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, other board members of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, senior officials, faculty members, and students.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a meeting with the senior officials to review the progress on delineation of Gair Mumkin Khads in various districts of Jammu Division.
The meeting was attended by Shaleen Kabra, Financial Commissioner, Revenue; Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce department; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Dr. Piyush Singla, Secretary to Government, Revenue; Deputy Commissioners of various districts including Udhampur, Samba, Kathua and senior officers.
The Lt Governor took appraisal of the progress achieved in the delineation/demarcation of Gair Mumkin Khads in Jammu, Samba, Kathua and Udhampur.
The Lt Governor directed the officers to expedite the work and complete the same at the earliest. He also directed the Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce department to explore possibilities for establishment of industries in districts like Doda and Kishtwar.
