Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Calls for Modern Skill-Based Education at 11th Convocation of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University
KATRA (JAMMU), December 27, 2025 — Addressing the 11th Convocation Ceremony of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) today, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha delivered a compelling call to action for the academic community, emphasizing an urgent shift from outdated rote learning to a modern, skill-based pedagogical framework. Underscoring the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, the Lieutenant Governor stated that the future of the nation’s development is inextricably linked to a knowledge-driven economy. He challenged educational institutions and faculty members to take full accountability for student outcomes, asserting that if even a single student remains unemployed or fails to venture into entrepreneurship, it reflects a lapse in the institution’s commitment and honesty toward its educational mission.
During his keynote address, the Lieutenant Governor proposed five strategic solutions to align the 21st-century workforce with rapid technological advancements. These include the deep integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into university operations, a transition toward lifelong flexible learning, and the fostering of robust industry partnerships.
He specifically noted that while machines dominate technical fields, humanities students must focus on unique human qualities that AI cannot replicate. To solidify this commitment to future-ready technology, he inaugurated a new “High-End Computing AI and Deep Learning Lab” alongside “Accommodation for Married Scholars” on the university campus.
Beyond academic restructuring, the Lieutenant Governor urged the university to provide scientific solutions to regional challenges, specifically calling for advanced research into early-warning systems for natural calamities like cloudbursts and landslides. He also highlighted the significant socio-economic contributions of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, which has procured goods worth ₹22 crore from local Self-Help Groups and is currently finalizing helipad projects to connect Katra with Shiv Khori by Maha Shivratri.
The ceremony saw the conferment of 821 degrees—including 26 Doctorates and 228 Masters—with a notable 18 out of 25 medals awarded to female students, showcasing a high benchmark of excellence among women scholars.