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JAMMU: The University of Jammu launched a five-day Neurotech and AI Innovation Workshop, a pioneering initiative under its flagship Design Your Degree programme aimed at promoting interdisciplinary, innovation-based learning.
Organized by the Skill Incubation Innovation Entrepreneurship Development Centre (SIIEDC), the workshop brings together students from engineering, neuroscience, computer science, and design to develop prototypes in brain-computer interfaces, virtual reality therapy, and sustainable systems. Over 70 students are participating in the programme, which will culminate in a 48-hour IDEA Forge Hackathon.
The initiative reflects the visionary leadership of Prof. Umesh Rai, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, who has made Design Your Degree a cornerstone of the University’s academic transformation. Prof. Rai believes that the challenges of the modern world—whether in health, climate, or technology—can only be addressed through collaboration across disciplines. Under his guidance, the University has adopted the spirit of NEP-2020, promoting experiential and problem-based learning.
“Education today must prepare students not just to earn degrees but to innovate and make a difference,” Prof. Rai has often emphasized, highlighting his focus on turning the University into a hub of creativity and enterprise.
The workshop was inaugurated by Prof. Alka Sharma, Director, SIIEDC, who described it as a “culture shift” in how students learn and innovate. She said the event embodies the essence of Design Your Degree by encouraging students to move beyond traditional boundaries. Appreciating the collaboration with BALDMANN, an industry leader in neurotechnology and AI innovation, Prof. Sharma said, “By working with professional-grade tools like EEG hardware, drones, and VR systems, our students are experiencing the real-world process of innovation.”
The technical sessions cover EEG/EMG signal processing, circuit board design using KiCad, Unity-based VR environment creation, and drone flight operations, before teams develop functional prototypes for social impact. Projects span five domains—Health Tech, Green Innovation, AI & Human Experience, Smart Cities, and Creative Technology—and will be judged on innovation, feasibility, and societal relevance.
Dr. Jatinder Manhas, Associate Director, SIIEDC and Workshop Coordinator, thanked the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Director, and BALDMANN experts for their guidance. “The energy and collaboration among students prove that we’re successfully translating the Vice Chancellor’s vision into action,” he said. The workshop will conclude on October 31 with prototype demonstrations, jury evaluation, and an awards ceremony recognizing the most innovative and impactful student projects.
