Academic Council of JU: Deliberations on key academic matters

Introduction of Ph.D in Journalism and Mass Communication  from  2025-26

VC highlights skill development,  student feedback as key drivers of excellence

The Academic Council of the University of Jammu, the apex decision-making body on academic affairs, was held today under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai. The meeting witnessed deliberations on significant academic initiatives and policy matters aimed at enhancing the quality of education and academic matters.

At the outset, Prof. Rai expressed profound gratitude to the Hon'ble Chancellor, University of Jammu Shri Manoj Sinha, and Hon'ble Pro-Chancellor, University of Jammu Jb. Omar Abdullah for their visionary guidance, which have been instrumental in steering the University towards excellence. He acknowledged their support to promoting innovation, academic growth, and infrastructural development, which has significantly enhanced the University's reputation on national and international platforms. The Vice Chancellor emphasized that their continuous encouragement inspires the entire University fraternity to achieve new milestones in education and research.

Prof. Rai also thanked the Deans/ Heads of various faculties/ departments who successfully completed their tenure  and wished them good luck for their future endeavours. He also welcomed the new members who took the charge as Deans/ Heads. Prof. Rai also informed the members of the Academic Council about the recent appointments to key administrative positions within the University. These appointments include Dr. Neeraj Sharma as Registrar, Sh. Sanjeev Mahajan as Controller of Examinations, and Dr. Jitender Khajuria as Finance Officer. The Vice Chancellor expressed confidence in their dedication and commitment, emphasizing the pivotal role they will play in furthering the University's vision of academic excellence.

On this occasion, Prof. Umesh Rai applauded the efforts of the Dean Students Welfare and the Director, Sports and Physical Education, University of Jammu, for successfully organizing "Display Your Talent" at the zonal level and for the pivotal role in bringing laurels to the university through outstanding performances in various sports tournaments at the UT and national levels respectively. Prof. Rai also acknowledged the significant contributions of Prof. Satnam Kour, who has served the university in various capacities, including as Chairperson of Utsah and Head of the Department of Psychology.

Prof. Rai highlighted the recent accomplishments of the University, including its improved NIRF ranking, 8th position of TBS in best in return on investment (ROI) and the  5th position of The Business School (TBS) among government B-schools, the sanctioning of various teaching positions, and the signing of multiple MoUs with renowned agencies and organizations.

Addressing the Deans, Rectors, Heads, and Directors, the Vice Chancellor reiterated the importance of integrating student feedback into both academic and administrative processes. He urged them to lead by example, nurture a culture of innovation, and prioritize the implementation of student-centric policies to ensure that students' voices shape a more dynamic and responsive learning environment. Stressing the need to align departmental objectives with the University's strategic vision, he encouraged proactive contributions towards transdisciplinary collaborations and research initiatives.

The Vice Chancellor highlighted the significance of skill-based education in equipping students to meet the evolving demands of the professional world. He emphasized the critical need to cultivate practical and interdisciplinary skills, incorporating student feedback to tailor academic programs that address real-world challenges effectively. Advocating for a more employment-oriented approach, he called for revising course structures to focus on employability and transitioning students from job seekers to job creators. Furthermore, he urged adopting a problem-solving approach to teaching, encouraging the move beyond traditional classroom methods to more innovative and experiential learning strategies. Through these measures, the university aims to enhance the educational experience and align its programs with global standards.

The Registrar, Dr. Neeraj Sharma presented various items for deliberation during the meeting. These items encompass proposals for curriculum revisions, the introduction of new academic programs, and policies to promote research and infrastructure development in the teaching departments.

The Academic Council engaged in comprehensive discussions and approved several key proposals that are expected to strengthen the academic framework of the University.

The matter with regard to the introduction of Four Year Undergraduate Programmes (FYUGP) in BCA and BBA with Data Science as Major subject in BCA at Kathua Campus, University of Jammu under NEP-2020 from the Academic Session 2025-26 was endorsed.

The Academic Council also endorsed the introduction of Ph. D in Journalism and Mass Communication in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, University of Jammu.

The item with regard to introduction of one year PG Diploma in Museology and Conservation in accordance with National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF) level 6, 40 credits in the Centre for Studies in Museology was also agreed in principle subject to fulfillment of UGC norms.

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.

The introduction of two new PG Diploma Programmes in the Department of Sanskrit from Academic Session 2025-26 was endorsed by the Academic Council as per UGC guidelines.

The council also endorsed the the matter with regard to the introduction of 5-year Integrated M.Sc. Electronics Programme in the Department of Electronics, University of Jammu under NEP-2020. 

In his concluding remarks, the Vice Chancellor reiterated the University's commitment to upholding the highest standards of academic integrity and innovation. He called upon all stakeholders to work collaboratively in creating a vibrant academic ecosystem that prepares students to become global leaders and changemakers.

Prof. Anju Bhasin, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Meena Sharma, Dean, Planning & Development, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies and all Deans, Rectors, Directors, HoDs, Conveners and college principals were also present in the meeting.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Sumita Sharma, Joint Registrar, Academic/Academic Affairs to the Chair and members for their valuable insights and contributions.