Jammu, July 31 (JKNS): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday inaugurated a series of transformative academic initiatives at Cluster University Jammu, including the innovative “Design Your Degree” programme, integrated science courses, a Semiconductor Skilling Programme in collaboration with IIT Madras, and new programmes on Indian Knowledge Systems, describing the reforms as a major step towards preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century.
LG Sinha, as per news agency JKNS, inaugurated a series of groundbreaking academic programmes designed to redefine the future of higher education in the region organised by Cluster University Jammu.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the significance of the “Design Your Degree” programme, calling it a revolutionary step towards student-centric learning. He noted that the world today demands multi-disciplinary thinkers who can integrate knowledge across diverse fields.
“The frontiers of knowledge are continuously expanding. Problems are multidimensional, and their solutions are possible only through multi-disciplinary approaches. I believe that the 21st century will welcome those young people who are not specialists in just one subject but possess the ability to integrate knowledge from multiple fields and discover new solutions. The future belongs to those who recognise possibilities, not boundaries. This initiative empowers students to shape their own academic journeys, combining subjects according to their interests, talents, and aspirations,” he said.
The inauguration also marked the launch of integrated programmes in Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Mathematics, and Geography.
The Lieutenant Governor underscored that science thrives on interconnectedness, and these courses will nurture students as holistic researchers capable of addressing complex challenges.
“The study of climate change is not limited only to environmental science. Chemistry, physics, mathematics, geography and others play an equally important role. If we provide our students with a broader perspective from the very beginning, they will not become specialists in just one subject, but will emerge as researchers and thinkers capable of understanding complex problems in their entirety and finding solutions. By encouraging cross-disciplinary study, Cluster University, Jammu is preparing students not only to master theories but to generate new ideas and innovations,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Cluster University, Jammu has also introduced one-year PG Diploma in Sanatan Dharma and Indian Knowledge Systems, along with the establishment of the Department of Vedic Studies.
The Lieutenant Governor said the true education must balance science with values. He stressed that India’s intellectual heritage, from Panini’s grammar to Aryabhata’s astronomy, from Ayurveda to linguistics, represents a treasure of systematic thought and scientific vision.
“As modern knowledge is essential, it is equally essential that we understand who we are, what our intellectual tradition has been and what our civilisation has contributed to the world. Giving expression to this very sentiment, the establishment of the Department of Vedic Studies and the launch of the one-year PG Diploma programme in Sanatan Dharma and Indian Knowledge Systems today is a significant step. The students will get the opportunity to understand that the Indian Knowledge System is not limited only to ancient beliefs or religious rituals but that Indian philosophy, the Upanishads, the Vedas, ancient mathematics, medical science, astronomy and linguistics constitute an invaluable heritage of profound intellectual research, science and logical thinking that our ancestors gave to the world. This programme will allow students to engage deeply with India’s civilizational wisdom while pursuing modern knowledge,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated the Semiconductor Skilling Programme in collaboration with IIT Madras, describing it as a vital step in India’s technological mission. He observed that semiconductors are the backbone of modern innovation, powering everything from mobile phones to space missions.
“Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has resolved to become a leader in technology development and manufacturing. This skilling initiative will equip students with cutting-edge expertise, aligning them with the needs of future industries and strengthening India’s position in the global deep-tech landscape,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor called upon students to focus on skill development and innovation.
He said every skill acquired and every innovation pursued will contribute to India’s journey towards self-reliance and global leadership.
He expressed confidence that these programmes will not only enrich individual academic journeys but also give new direction to Jammu Kashmir’s progress.
“The new programmes at Cluster University, Jammu is the beginning of a new philosophy of education. Rooted in India’s cultural identity and oriented towards global aspirations, these initiatives promise to empower students to dream, innovate and lead,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The occasion also witnessed the launch of Post-Graduate Programme in Environmental Sciences with Minor Specialisation in Renewable Energy; One year Post-Graduate diploma in Dogri Translation; release of Nasha Mukt Bharat activity report, and renaming of Vice-Chancellor’s office-cum-secretariat complex as “Suryaputri Tawi Bhawan” and old IIM Campus as “Chandrabhaga Campus”.
Prof. K.S. Chandrasekar, Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu; Ankur Mahajan, Registrar, HoDs and office bearers of the Cluster University of Jammu; heads of several Constituent colleges of the University, faculty, and students attended the inaugural ceremony. (JKNS)
