JAMMU: The University of Jammu today welcomed Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman, Jammu & Kashmir Higher Education Council (JKHEC), who, along with his team, carried out a detailed review of the University’s pioneering Design Your Degree (DYD) program. Senior faculty members, mentors, students, and senior officials associated with the program were present during the interaction.

Launched in 2023, the DYD program is the University’s flagship four-year undergraduate initiative developed in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It allows students to design their own academic pathways by choosing courses across disciplines, combining classroom-based learning with hands-on experiences, and building skills relevant to emerging social and professional needs. Guided by the motto Teach to Transform, Educate to Empower, Learn to Lead, the program strives to shape confident and well-rounded graduates.

During the review, Prof. Dinesh Singh examined the progress made since the program’s inception and interacted closely with both students and mentors involved in the DYD program. He appreciated the clarity with which students articulated their learning choices and acknowledged the efforts of mentors who guide them through personalised academic planning.

“The Design Your Degree program is a bold and timely initiative. I am pleased to see students engaging with curiosity and confidence, and mentors supporting them with dedication. This model represents the future of higher education , one that values flexibility, imagination, and the individual strengths of every learner,” Prof. Singh said.

He also held discussions with faculty members on curriculum design, pedagogical innovations, and the University’s broader approach to interdisciplinary and student-centred education. The visit allowed the review team to gain first-hand insights into how the program is being implemented on the ground and the support systems built around it.

The review marks an important step in further strengthening the DYD program and aligns with the University’s resolve to create a flexible, future-ready learning environment in keeping with the vision of NEP 2020.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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