Department of Communication and Journalism (School of Media Studies) in collaboration with the Department of Information Technology (School of Engineering), Central University of Kashmir (CUK), started a one-week Student Induction Programme (SIP) “Deeksharambh” (in offline and online mode) for newly admitted Postgraduate (PG) and Undergraduate (UG) students at the Tulmulla Campus here Monday.

In his address, Dean Academic Affairs and Dean School of Media Studies, Prof. Shahid Rasool, extended a warm welcome to the students and congratulated them for securing admission in CUKashmir. He emphasised the importance of induction programmes in shaping the academic journey of students. “The university aims to nurture not just skilled professionals, but responsible citizens. This programme will help you connect with your peers, teachers, and the institution’s values,” Prof. Shahid said. He said the journey through higher education should be more than a path to employment. “It should be a transformative process that shapes individuals into lifelong learners, responsible citizens, and agents of positive change.” Prof. Shahid enumerated several student centric initiatives launched by the university including “Earn While Learn, Student Aid Fund, Credit Based Fee Structure,” etc and asked the newly admitted students to avail the benefits of these initiatives.

He stressed that learning must engage the mind actively moving beyond rote memorisation and exam-oriented preparation. The objective, he said, is to equip students to think critically, reason logically, and apply knowledge meaningfully in real-world contexts. “This requires a teaching environment where students are encouraged to explore, question, and create, rather than simply absorb and repeat.”

Prof. Rasool concluded by distilling his vision into five core attributes that every student should cultivate: Curiosity – the drive to explore and discover, Openness – the willingness to learn from diverse perspectives, Discipline – the commitment to sustained effort and integrity, Ethics– principles and values that guide the behaviour of all stakeholders and Service – the dedication to contributing positively to society.

Speaking on the occasion, Dean, School of Physical and Chemical Sciences and Dean, School of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Mohammad Yousuf, highlighted the vital role that learning plays in shaping a meaningful and successful life. He emphasized that education is not merely about acquiring knowledge but also about applying it in practical, creative, and purposeful ways. The department, he noted, is fortunate to have highly qualified faculty members who are approachable and committed to guiding students through their academic journey. He encouraged students to maintain a proactive, disciplined, and sincere approach to their studies. “With a wealth of resources available, from books to research opportunities, students are in a position to explore and develop innovative ideas,” he added.

Earlier, HoD, DCJ, Dr. Arif Nazir in his address, urged the students to make the most of the academic resources, co-curricular opportunities, and mentorship provided by the institution. “Deeksharambh is designed not only to acquaint you with the curriculum but also to encourage holistic personal and professional growth,” he added.

Faculty members from both the departments were present on the occasion.

During the weeklong programme, controlling officers of various administrative sections will apprise the newly admitted students about the facilities available in the university.