CM underscores reforms in higher education, highlights universities’ role in youth empowerment under Mission Yuva
JAMMU, NOVEMBER 13: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said his government has undertaken wide-ranging reforms to improve access, quality and relevance in higher education across Jammu and Kashmir—efforts that directly benefit institutions like the University of Jammu and, above all, its students.
He was speaking at the 19th (Second Special) Convocation of the University of Jammu at the General Zorawar Singh Auditorium, where he participated as Guest of Honour in his capacity as Pro-Chancellor. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the University’s Chancellor, presided over the ceremony as Chief Guest. The event was attended by Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, MPs Ghulam Ali Khatana and Sat Paul Sharma, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai, senior faculty, achievers, degree recipients, students and their families.
Congratulating graduating students, medalists and Ph.D. scholars, the Chief Minister described the convocation as a moment of “pride, celebration and reflection” for the entire University community. He also acknowledged the vital role families and educators play in shaping young minds.
Highlighting the University’s growth, he noted that with 11 off-site campuses, 40 academic departments and over 160 affiliated colleges, the University of Jammu has emerged as a leading institution in the region. He praised its NAAC A++ accreditation (CGPA 3.72) and its consistent presence among the top 100 universities in NIRF rankings, securing 51st position this year. He also lauded its rise in the State Public Universities category—from 23rd in 2024 to 21st in 2025.
Omar Abdullah appreciated the University’s focus on improving employability through job fairs, global placement drives and collaborations with international organisations. He commended Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai and his team for prioritising academic excellence, innovation and holistic student development.
The Chief Minister also spotlighted Mission Yuva, his government’s flagship initiative aimed at nurturing the creativity and potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth. He said the programme integrates education with skill development, entrepreneurship, career guidance, civic engagement and mental well-being to prepare young people for both employment and leadership.
He said the synergy between Mission Yuva and institutions like the University of Jammu is visible through mentorship, startup incubation, cultural and literary programmes, and community outreach. These combined efforts, he noted, ensure that young citizens are not just educated but empowered to contribute to a progressive and self-reliant Jammu & Kashmir.
Calling education the “heart of transformation,” the Chief Minister said universities must continue shaping innovators, entrepreneurs and responsible citizens. He urged that the “light of knowledge” reach every part of the UT—from Kathua and Bhaderwah to the remote areas of Poonch and Kishtwar.
Encouraging the graduating students to uphold their values and contribute to society, he said:
“The University has invested in you; now invest in the world around you. Success is not just what you achieve personally, but what you give back to society.”
He reminded them that while convocation marks the culmination of years of hard work, it also begins a new journey of purpose and responsibility. Their education, he said, has equipped them with critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, ethical judgment and lifelong learning—tools that will guide them wherever they go.
In his concluding remarks, the Chief Minister urged the youth to “dream big, think boldly and serve selflessly,” expressing confidence that the University of Jammu will continue to excel as a hub of learning, innovation and character-building, and that its students will uphold its legacy through meaningful service to society.
