- Introduction of Ph.D in Journalism and Mass Communication from 2025-26
- VC highlights skill development, student feedback as key drivers of excellence
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The Academic Council of the University of Jammu, the highest decision-making body for academic affairs, convened today under the leadership of Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umesh Rai.
The meeting focused on important academic initiatives and policies designed to enhance the quality of education and research at the University.
Prof. Umesh Rai began by expressing gratitude to the Chancellor, Manoj Sinha, and Pro-Chancellor, Omar Abdullah, for their visionary leadership and continuous support, which have been crucial in steering the University toward excellence.
He acknowledged their encouragement in promoting innovation, academic growth, and infrastructural development, which have significantly elevated the University’s standing on national and international platforms.
Dr. Neeraj Sharma was appointed as the Registrar, Sanjeev Mahajan as Controller of Examinations, and Dr. Jitender Khajuria as Finance Officer. Prof. Rai expressed confidence in their dedication and the crucial role they will play in the University’s continued pursuit of academic excellence.
Addressing the Deans, Rectors, Heads, and Directors, the Vice Chancellor stressed the importance of integrating student feedback into both academic and administrative processes.
He encouraged them to lead by example, nurturing a culture of innovation and prioritizing student-centric policies to create a dynamic and responsive learning environment. He also urged departments to align their objectives with the University’s strategic vision and encouraged proactive contributions toward trans disciplinary research initiatives.
Prof. Rai highlighted the need for skill-based education to meet the evolving demands of the professional world. He called for the revision of course structures to enhance employability and transition students from job seekers to job creators.
Advocating for a problem-solving approach to teaching, he encouraged moving beyond traditional classroom methods to more innovative, experiential learning strategies. These measures, he stated, would help the University align its programs with global standards and provide students with a holistic education.
Dr. Neeraj Sharma, the newly appointed Registrar, presented several important proposals during the meeting, including curriculum revisions, the introduction of new academic programs, and policies aimed at promoting research and infrastructure development. The Academic Council engaged in extensive discussions and approved key proposals to strengthen the University’s academic framework. These included the introduction of Four-Year Undergraduate Programmes (FYUGP) in BCA and BBA with Data Science as a major at Kathua Campus, the launch of a Ph.D. program in Journalism and Mass Communication, and a one-year PG Diploma in Museology and Conservation. The Council also endorsed the introduction of a 5-year Integrated M.Sc. Electronics program and two new PG Diploma programs in Sanskrit.
The Council also agreed in principle with the proposal for granting of one-time special chance for Reappear/Failure candidates in University of Jammu and also for division improvement in various programs.
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Rai reaffirmed the University’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity and innovation. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate in fostering a vibrant academic ecosystem that prepares students to become global leaders and changemakers.
The meeting was attended by Prof. Anju Bhasin (Dean Academic Affairs), Prof. Meena Sharma (Dean, Planning & Development), Prof. Neelu Rohmetra (Dean Research Studies), and other Deans, Rectors, Directors, Heads of Departments, and college principals. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Sumita Sharma, Joint Registrar, Academic Affairs, who expressed gratitude to the Chair and members for their valuable insights and contributions.