Early Times Report JAMMU, Sept 26: In a significant milestone, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth, and Sports, which visited Jammu and Kashmir on September 1, 2023, has expressed appreciation for and endorsed the "Design Your Degree" initiative of the University of Jammu. This initiative, presented by Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jammu, during the delegation's visit to Srinagar, has garnered praise and recommendations for inclusion in the National Curriculum. The Parliamentary Committee, following a comprehensive evaluation of the "Design Your Degree" initiative at the University of Jammu, has not only applauded its merits but also suggested to the University Grants Commission (UGC) that it be incorporated into the National Curriculum framework. The Committee's report, released on September 25, 2023, states, "UGC should also take up the 'Design Your Degree' initiative of the University of Jammu and look after the feasibility and promotion. It may review the National Curriculum framework in compliance with the recommendation of the National Education Policy and to accommodate new innovative ideas such as 'Design Your Degree.'" In response to this significant development, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai expressed heartfelt gratitude to Sh. Vivek Thakur, Chairman of the DRPSC on Education, Women, Children, Youth, and Sports, for recognizing the value and potential of the "Design Your Degree" program. He emphasized that this endorsement underscores the University's commitment to delivering quality education that prepares students for future challenges. Prof. Umesh Rai also extended his thanks to the Honorable Lieutenant Governor and Chancellor of the University of Jammu, as well as Vice Chairman of the Higher Education Council of UT J&K, Prof. Dinesh Singh, for their unwavering support and guidance. It is worth noting that Prof. Mamdala Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman of the UGC, praised the innovative "Design Your Degree" program launched by the University of Jammu during the Akhil Bhartiya Siksha Samagam 2023 at IECC Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. He also shared his appreciation for the initiative on the official UGC Twitter handle. The "Design Your Degree" program represents a significant shift in higher education, empowering students to customize their academic journey to align with their individual interests and career aspirations. This initiative places a strong emphasis on equipping students with practical skills that are in high demand in today's evolving job market, effectively preparing them for successful careers. |