JAMMU, November 13,2025: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening the higher education ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasising the transformative power of education in shaping the region’s future.
Addressing the 19th Convocation of the University of Jammu at the General Zorawar Singh Auditorium, the Chief Minister said his government has undertaken a series of transformative reforms to enhance access, quality and relevance in higher education — reforms that directly benefit institutions such as the University of Jammu and, most importantly, its students.
The convocation was graced by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Chancellor of the University, as the Chief Guest, and attended by Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Members of Parliament Ghulam Ali Khatana and Sat Paul Sharma, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai, senior officials, faculty members, students and parents.
Congratulating the graduates, medal winners and Ph.D. awardees, Omar Abdullah described the occasion as a “moment of pride, celebration, and reflection,” and lauded the University of Jammu for its exceptional achievements.
Highlighting the University’s milestones, he praised its NAAC A++ accreditation with a CGPA of 3.72 and its inclusion among the top 100 universities in India under the National Institutional Ranking Framework , where it secured the 51st position in 2025. He also noted the University’s rise in the State Public Universities category from 23rd to 21st position, calling it a reflection of its growing academic and research excellence.
“The University’s focus on employability through job fairs and global placement drives, including collaborations with international organisations, reflects a forward-looking approach ensuring that education translates into meaningful career opportunities,” the Chief Minister said.
Applauding Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai and his team, Omar Abdullah said that the University’s progress embodies the vision of innovation, inclusivity, and student empowerment that his government seeks to foster through higher education reforms in Jammu & Kashmir.
Mission Yuva: Empowering the Next Generation
In his address, Omar Abdullah highlighted Mission Yuva, the government’s flagship initiative aimed at harnessing the creativity, skills, and potential of the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Mission Yuva aims to provide young people with a structured platform for capacity building, career guidance, entrepreneurship and civic engagement. By integrating education with skill development, innovation, and mental well-being, it prepares our youth not only for employment but also for leadership and nation-building,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that the synergy between Mission Yuva and the higher education ecosystem is visible through mentorship programmes, startup incubation, and outreach initiatives involving universities like the University of Jammu.
“Together, these efforts ensure that our young citizens are not only educated but empowered to contribute meaningfully to a progressive, inclusive and self-reliant Jammu & Kashmir,” he added.
Calling education the ‘heart of transformation,’ Omar Abdullah urged universities to extend the light of knowledge to every corner of the region—from Kathua and Bhaderwah to the remote hamlets of Poonch and Kishtwar—ensuring equitable access to learning and opportunity.
He encouraged students to uphold the values of their alma mater and give back to society, saying, “The University has invested in you. Now it is time for you to invest in the world around you.”
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister urged the youth to dream big, think boldly, and serve selflessly, reminding them that true success lies not only in personal achievements but in one’s contributions to society.
“The nation looks to your generation to build a future marked by progress, harmony and inclusivity,” he said, expressing confidence that the University of Jammu will continue to shine as a centre of excellence, innovation, and character building in Jammu and Kashmir.
