Jammu : The Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai, underscored the significance of youth festivals in nurturing creativity, cultural exchange, and holistic development among students. He emphasized that such events provide a platform for young minds to showcase their talent and strengthen the spirit of unity and innovation.
Vice Chancellor as the Chief Guest was speaking at the Valedictory Function of Goonj 2025, the two-day Multi-Genre Mega Youth Festival, which concluded today at the University of Jammu. The event witnessed a vibrant display of artistic expression, talent, and cultural diversity. B.R. Sharma the State Election Commissioner, attended as the Guest of Honour, while Abdul Majid Butt graced the occasion as the Special Guest.
Prof. Rai asserted that Goonj has resonated across Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the need to expand its reach nationally. “Next series of Goonj shall be organized on a larger scale, with activities spanning the university’s seven off-site campuses and culminating in a grand event at the main campus,” Prof Rai said.
He added that in the past couple of years, the University has taken several groundbreaking initiatives like College on Wheels, Design Your Degree programme, which are milestones in promoting interdisciplinary learning and exposure. Vice Chancellor further highlighted the transformative impact of the Design Your Degree program, which has gained national recognition. Prof Umesh Rai maintained that the credit for the successful implementation of this program goes to the Higher Education Council and the unwavering support of the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of J&K.
Vice Chancellor underscored the importance of leveraging the FM Community Radio Station, established in the Department of English, to enhance knowledge dissemination and student engagement. He congratulated Dean Students Welfare, Professor Prakash Chandra Antahal, and his team for their exceptional efforts in organizing the event. He lauded the enthusiasm of the students, asserting that their participation and learning experiences are the true measure of success.
Speaking on the occasion, B. R Sharma expressed happiness over the organization of Goonj which not only provides a platform for the students to showcase their talent in cultural and literary events and sports activities but also give University teaching departments an opportunity to showcase their best practices. He emphasized the importance of such events in nurturing creativity, talent, and cultural exchange among the youth where they come together, share ideas and interact.
Expressing commitment of the government in strengthening and supporting such endeavours in the Universities, Abdul Majeed Butt said that events like Goonj bridge the gap between urban and rural education.
“We are trying to provide full support to universities to help them adopt innovative educational practices and improve overall academic standards,” he said and added that such events play a pivotal role in offering platform to students from the peripheral regions and ensure equitable access to quality learning experiences.
Earlier, Prof. Prakash Antahal, Dean Students Welfare, University of Jammu presented a formal welcome address whereas Prof. Monika Chadha, Chairperson Campus Cultural Committee gave a detailed overview of the report of the two-day event. On this occasion, coordinators of various vectors and adjudicators of Best Practices, Cultural Representatives were also felicitated.
