Mattoo discusses modalities for implementation of “Knowledge Initiative”

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Oct 16: Advisor to Chief Minister Prof Amitabh Mattoo today chaired a high level meeting to discuss and work out modalities for implementation of “Knowledge Initiative in Higher Education and Primary Education” here today.
Vice Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu Professor Anju Bhasin, Vice Chancellor University of Jammu Prof R.D Sharma, Registrar University of Jammu Meenakshi Kilam, Financial Commissioner (Coord-ination) Resident Commission, J&K Government K.B Aggarwal besides Head, Department of Urdu Prof Shohab Inayat Malik were present in the meeting.
Professor Mattoo, who is heading the Working Group constituted for preparation of a vision document for this Knowledge Initiative, stressed upon the participants to impart skills, teaching, learning research and innovation that will be drawn from global best practices and traditional norms, preparing policies, guidelines and schemes to ensure full literacy and competitive employability through an optimal use of existing infrastructure and human resources in the State.
The Advisor emphasized upon the need of consulting academicians before the incorporation of integrated courses or the start of new courses in the curriculum. “This will help make the education system more pragmatic and result oriented”, he added.
Mattoo said that students should be trained and motivated from the early stages of their classes for various research programmes in their respective fields. He said that young minds are like raw clay which can easily be moulded and motivated to the desired destinations.
The participants putforth their suggestions regarding Knowledge Initiative and asked for introduction of area specific skill development and job oriented courses based on modern curriculum. He stressed upon the need of regular feedback from the concerned institutions so that the purpose of launching such innovative programmes is achieved. Other suggestions given by them included establishment of Cluster University in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch, strengthening of basic infrastructure in education sector, digitization of left over education centers, introduction of theatre and drama courses in colleges, adequate sports infrastructure, uniformity in HRA, research works on medicinal and related herbs and plants available in abundance in the State, guidance and counseling units at school level, promotion of organic farming, introduction of vocational courses in tourism, Animal and Sheep Husbandry in far off areas, revamping of teaching techniques, restoration of elementary teaching etc.