TWO-DAY FINANCIAL AWARENESS &CONSUMER TRAINING (FACT) SESSION ORGANISED AT  UNIVERSITY OF JAMMU

The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), University of Jammu, organised a two-day Financial Awareness & Consumer Training (FACT) Session for the students of M.Com. and B.Com. programme on 29th and 30th October, 2025, under the convenership of Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastva, Director, CDOE. The event was organised as a continuing activity in the series of programmes being held to celebrate the 50th Golden Jubilee of the Centre for Distance and Online Education.

The inaugural session commenced with a welcome address by the Dr. Sumita Sharma, Joint Registrar, CDOE, who introduced the resource person, Mr. Sandeep Gupta, Former Senior Manager, Canara Bank and Financial Education Trainer empanelled with the National Centre for Financial Education (NCFE)as well as a PFRDA-certified Retirement Advisor.She underscored the importance of organising such initiatives aimed at equipping students with essential financial knowledge and practical insights relevant to their academic and professional journeys. She also emphasised that in an era marked by digital transformation and growing financial complexities, financial literacy has become an indispensable skill for every individual.

In his address, the Director, CDOE highlighted the significance of financial literacy in the modern era, emphasising that a sound understanding of financial concepts is essential for students to make informed and responsible financial decisions. He further stated that financial awareness is a key life skill that enables individuals to manage their resources effectively and plan for a secure future.

The expert speaker, Mr. Sandeep Gupta, delivered an informative and interactive session covering a wide spectrum of topics related to personal and public finance. He elaborated on the judicious use of credit cards, awareness about fraudulent calls and messages, and provided detailed insights into the National Pension System (NPS)including aspects of income tax deductions, calculations, and withdrawal procedures. He also discussed the General Provident Fund (GPF) for employees, the benefits of investment in Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs), the importance and advantages of Jan Dhan Accountsand the availability of education loans for students.

He further encouraged students to pursuee-Certificate Courses in financial education to strengthen their understanding of financial systems and enhance their employability prospects.

In his concluding remarks, the Director, CDOE extended his appreciation to the expert for conducting a highly insightful and practical session, which provided students with valuable knowledge applicable to real-life financial situations.

The sessions were also attended by Dr. SumeetKour, Teacher Incharge B.Com., Dr. DeeptiAbrol, Teacher Incharge M.Com and staff members of CDOE. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from the students, who expressed gratitude to the Centre for Distance and Online Education, University of Jammu for organizing such an enriching and awareness-oriented initiative.