Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Attends 11th Convocation Ceremony at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University
The 11th Convocation Ceremony of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University was graced by the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on December 27. In his address at the convocation, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized the need to move away from traditional rote learning methods towards more modern and skill-based approaches to education in order to meet the evolving demands of the world.
He stressed the importance of reducing curriculum load and developing adaptable skills for future employment opportunities. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the responsibility of educational institutions and teachers in ensuring that every student is equipped with the necessary skills to either secure employment or establish their own enterprise.
Encouraging students to pave new paths and directions in life, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to explore new aspects and propose innovative solutions for the nation’s prosperity. He emphasized the significance of embracing artificial intelligence in teaching, learning, and university operations, as well as adopting new technological tools to keep pace with the demands of the 21st-century workforce.
The Lieutenant Governor also emphasized the importance of experiential learning, strong industry partnerships, and a focus on innovation, research, and social service. He underscored the role of the teaching community in analyzing the impact of advancements in science, humanities, and technology on human civilization.
Recognizing Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University’s contributions to India’s educational landscape, the Lieutenant Governor commended the institution for its commitment to public welfare. He particularly praised the academic achievements of women students and urged the university to provide scientific solutions for the challenges faced by the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the recent natural calamities, the Lieutenant Governor called for research into advanced early-warning systems for cloudbursts, landslides, and floods. He also emphasized the importance of sustainable infrastructure and research on the recycling and reuse of construction materials.
The Lieutenant Governor instructed the university to redesign courses for Dogri and Vedic studies to attract more students and to expedite the completion of the languishing indoor stadium. He highlighted the role of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in supporting families affected by natural disasters and preserving cultural heritage through Sanskrit and Vedic education.
Additionally, the Lieutenant Governor announced the construction of the Shankaracharya Temple and five other temples in the district, along with the establishment of an International Museum of the Goddess in Katra. He also mentioned the ongoing construction of helipads at Katra and Shiv Khori to facilitate devotees during Maha Shivratri.
During the convocation, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated the ‘High-End Computing AI and Deep Learning Lab’ and ‘Accommodation for Married Scholars’. A total of 821 degrees were awarded, including Masters, Doctorates, and Undergraduate degrees, with medals and prizes conferred to meritorious students.
Various dignitaries, including Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Dr. Ashok Bhan, and Gunjan Rana, attended the ceremony, along with officials from the Higher Education Department and members of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. The event was also graced by local government representatives and senior officials.
