JAMMU, AUGUST 20: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo said that research-driven education is the key to addressing contemporary challenges and building a knowledge-based society.
She was speaking after inaugurating the Two-Day International Conference on Emerging Trends in Multidisciplinary Research (ICETMR-2025), organised by Government Gandhi Memorial (GGM) Science College Jammu.
The inaugural session was attended by MLA Jammu East, Yudhveer Sethi; Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department, Shantmanu; Vice Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu, Prof. K S Chardrasekar; noted academician Prof. Rajnikant from University of Jammu; Principal GGM Science College, Prof. Romesh Kumar Gupta, besides eminent academicians, invited speakers, researchers, and a large number of students.
In her Presidential Address, the Minister lauded GGM Science College for its commitment to academic excellence and providing a platform for young researchers. She emphasized the importance of fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and critical thinking to prepare students for future global challenges. She also urged faculty and students to actively contribute to nation-building through meaningful research and innovation.
Highlighting the significance of the conference, Sakeena Itoo said the event provides a vibrant platform for scholarly discussions, knowledge exchange, and academic collaboration, which will uplift the educational standards of Jammu and Kashmir. She noted that leading academicians and researchers from across the country and abroad will deliberate on new frontiers of research and innovation, shaping the region’s academic and research ecosystem for years to come.
MLA Yudhveer Sethi appreciated the college for hosting a conference of such scale, stressing the vital role of youth in shaping a progressive society. Additional Chief Secretary Shantmanu highlighted government initiatives to promote innovation-driven education across the Union Territory.
In his welcome address, Principal Prof. Romesh Kumar Gupta reaffirmed the college’s commitment to nurturing academic excellence, multidisciplinary learning, and societal progress through quality research. Vice Chancellor Prof. K S Chardrasekar called for strengthening the research culture in higher education institutions, while Prof. Rajnikant, in his keynote address, underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and inspired participants to pursue socially relevant research.
Convener and Organising Secretary, Dr. Parshotam Singh Manhas, informed that 178 researchers will present their work during the two-day event. Conference Coordinator, Dr. Vandana Khajuria, highlighted the importance of such academic platforms in inspiring young minds.
On the occasion, the Minister released the Abstract Book and College Newsletter, showcasing the scholarly contributions of participants. She also e-inaugurated new infrastructure at GGM Science College, including the Skill Tower with laboratories, Geography Block, renovated Physics and Chemistry Block of the heritage building, Conference Hall, and Browsing Centre.
