Jammu, December 27, 2025: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today addressed the 11th Convocation Ceremony of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, emphasizing the urgent need to move away from outdated rote learning systems towards modern, skill-based and flexible education models to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor stressed reducing curriculum load and focusing on the development of adaptable skills aligned with future job requirements. He observed that unemployment among even a single graduate reflects shortcomings on the part of educational institutions and teachers in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Calling upon students to carve new paths, explore innovative ideas and contribute meaningfully to national prosperity, the Lieutenant Governor said that achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047 would require every student and educational institution to play its role, as the nation’s future will be driven by the knowledge economy.
The Lieutenant Governor outlined five key measures to keep pace with technological change and 21st-century workforce demands, including integrating artificial intelligence into teaching and university operations, shifting to lifelong and skill-focused learning, strengthening industry-academia partnerships, promoting experiential learning, and prioritising innovation, research, social service and solutions to local challenges.
He highlighted the responsibility of educators to analyse the impact of rapid advancements in science, humanities and technology on society, stressing that classroom methodologies must evolve to support economic development, inclusive growth and social progress.
Lauding Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University for its contributions to higher education and public welfare, the Lieutenant Governor also congratulated women students for their outstanding academic achievements. He entrusted the university with providing scientific solutions to challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in disaster management, sustainable infrastructure and material recycling.
Referring to recent natural calamities, he urged focused research on early-warning systems for cloudbursts, landslides and floods. He also directed redesigning courses in Dogri and Vedic studies to make them more contemporary, and called for a comprehensive strategy to expedite completion of the indoor stadium.
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the role of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in relief and rehabilitation efforts, cultural preservation and livelihood support. He informed that products worth Rs 22 crore have been procured from local Self-Help Groups, with directions issued to further enhance local procurement. He also shared updates on temple construction projects, the proposed International Museum of the Goddess at Katra, and the nearing completion of helipads at Katra and Shiv Khori.
On the occasion, 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 at the convocation, including 567 undergraduate, 228 postgraduate and 26 doctoral degrees. Medals were conferred on 25 meritorious students, 10 students received the Infosys Foundation Prize for Excellence, and 11 were awarded Certificates of Distinction.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Pragati Kumar presented the university report. The ceremony was attended by senior officials, academicians, members of the Shrine Board, faculty, students and dignitaries from across the region.
