Two-Day National Conference on Interdisciplinary Advances in Mathematical, Statistical and Computational Sciences inaugurated at JU 

Jammu, February 9:  The Faculty of Mathematical Sciences, University of Jammu, today inaugurated a Two-Day National Conference on “Interdisciplinary Advances in Mathematical, Statistical and Computational Sciences” at Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium. The conference, jointly organised by the Departments of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science & IT, seeks to promote dialogue among scholars, researchers and academicians on emerging trends and cross-disciplinary innovations shaping contemporary science and technology.

Delivering his presidential remarks, Prof. Umesh Rai, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, emphasised the need to dissolve disciplinary boundaries not only among Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science, but across social sciences, biological sciences, and arts and humanities. He observed that in today’s world, meaningful academic and technological progress is impossible without the integrated application of these three core domains. 

Prof. Rai lauded the faculty for their support in transforming educational practices at the University of Jammu and  stated that the real strength of the University lies not in its leadership alone, but in the collective commitment of its faculty and students who consistently support innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence.

Prof. Rai further highlighted that the true spirit of the National Education Policy is rooted in skill development, flexibility, and interdisciplinary learning rather than narrow domain specialisation. He also elaborated on the University of Jammu’s pioneering initiatives such as the Design Your Degree programme and the UG-PG Integrated Programme, both designed to empower students through foundational learning, experiential projects, and cross-disciplinary exposure before they choose their specialised path.

Prof. Suresh Kumar Sharma, Vice-Chancellor, Shaheed Bhagat Singh State University, Firozpur, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. In his address, he highlighted the centrality of data in modern research, elaborating on structured and unstructured data and their applications in healthcare, governance and industry. Drawing on his work in artificial intelligence, machine learning and biomedical research, he illustrated how mathematical and statistical tools are driving breakthroughs in disease prediction, environmental modelling and genomics. He also motivated the audience with reflections on perseverance, open-mindedness and scientific curiosity.

Prof. A.K. Naik, Former President of the Computer Society of India, attended the conference as Guest of Honour and stressed the growing importance of computational sciences in innovation, digital transformation and national development. He observed that emerging technologies such as AI, big data and quantum computing are redefining research paradigms and creating new opportunities for young scholars.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. J.P. Singh Joorel, Dean, Academic Affairs and Head, Department of Statistics, appreciated the visionary leadership of Prof. Umesh Rai for promoting innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. He announced that from the 2026 academic session, the University of Jammu will introduce five-year integrated programmes in line with the spirit of the National Education Policy. He outlined that the first year would focus on foundational learning, the second year on interdisciplinary exposure, and from the third year onward students would specialise as per their interests. He expressed confidence that these initiatives would set a strong benchmark for holistic and flexible higher education

Prof. Vibhakar Mansotra, Head, Department of Computer Science & IT, emphasised the transformative role of computational technologies in academia and industry. He noted that interdisciplinary collaboration among Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science is essential for addressing complex real-world problems. Highlighting advancements in AI, cybersecurity, data analytics and intelligent systems, he stressed that modern research must integrate theory with application to produce meaningful societal impact.

Earlier, Prof. Romesh Kumar, Head, Department of Mathematics,  welcomed the dignitaries and outlined the objectives of the conference, underscoring the collective vision behind this interdisciplinary initiative.

The formal vote of thanks was proposed by Prof. Parmil Kumar.

The two-day event will include lectures, panel discussions and technical sessions by eminent scholars from across the country, covering themes such as artificial intelligence, data science, computational modelling, quantum computing, statistical inference and interdisciplinary applications in science.

The inaugural session was attended by Heads, faculty members, staff, scholars and   students.