| VC calls for education rooted in real-world problems, critical thinking | | |  Early Times Report
JAMMU, Aug 11: Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai on Tuesday called upon students to look beyond conventional classroom learning and connect their education with the needs and challenges of society, saying that meaningful learning begins when students develop the ability to question, think critically and apply knowledge to real-life situations.
Addressing the newly admitted students, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai said the Five-Year UG-PG Integrated Programme seeks to translate the spirit of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 into actual learning by giving students greater academic flexibility and exposure to experiential, peer-based and transdisciplinary learning. He said education cannot remain confined to completing a syllabus or preparing students for examinations. "The job of a teacher is not just to complete the curriculum. The job of a teacher is to create interest among students in the discipline. Once that interest is created, students will find their own path," he said.
Prof. Rai said meaningful education must connect knowledge with the needs and challenges of society, encouraging students to work on real-life problems and explore solutions by drawing upon different areas of knowledge. Such an approach, he said, could help students develop as problem-solvers and entrepreneurs rather than merely job seekers. Referring to the University's Design Your Degree Programme, he said the Five-Year UG-PG Integrated Programme builds upon the experience gained from an approach that places experiential learning, problem-solving and application of knowledge at the centre of education.
Stressing the need to move beyond rigid disciplinary boundaries, Prof. Rai said students, irrespective of their chosen disciplines, should develop familiarity with information technology, data, mathematical applications, coding, artificial intelligence, banking and accountancy. Referring to Vinoba Bhave's Thoughts on Education, he underlined the importance of seeking knowledge beyond formal educational spaces and urged teachers to build learning around activities and real-world problems. Prof. Rai urged the students to make the most of their university years by exploring beyond disciplinary boundaries and developing the critical thinking, creativity and skills needed to respond to real-world challenges.
Earlier, Prof. J.P. Singh Joorel, Dean Academic Affairs, urged the newly admitted students to view university education as a journey that goes far beyond earning a degree. In a rapidly changing world, he said, knowledge must be matched by skills, critical thinking, communication and the ability to solve problems.
Encouraging students to learn beyond the classroom, embrace technology wisely and see setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow, he reminded them that the person they become during their university years is as important as the degree they earn. He left the students with three guiding principles for success: dream with purpose, work hard and stay positive. |
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