To strengthen the adoption of online learning and integrate SWAYAM courses into academic programs, the University of Kashmir (KU) organized a one-day outreach workshop on ‘Integration and implementation of SWAYAM courses across universities and affiliated colleges in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh’ here on Thursday.

The workshop was organized in collaboration with the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India. It aimed to raise awareness about the adoption of SWAYAM courses for credit accumulation, enhancing flexibility, and providing interdisciplinary learning opportunities for students in higher education.

SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) launched by the Government of India, aims to bridge the digital divide by offering free online courses across various disciplines, allowing students to pursue quality education and skill development.

Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Higher Education J&K, Shri Shantmanu (IAS), in his virtual address to the participants, highlighted the need for continuous research to ensure that students are equipped with the competencies required in the evolving job market.

Integrating skill-based learning with academic programs is crucial for preparing students for future career challenges,” he stated. 

In his address Secretary UGC, Prof. Manish Joshi emphasized that digital learning has become essential in today’s fast-changing world and has particularly benefited students from remote areas, enabling them to access quality education and specialized courses.

“To stay relevant in the evolving education landscape, universities must embrace online learning and leverage platforms like SWAYAM to make knowledge more accessible and inclusive,” he said.

Vice Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, in her address, reiterated the university’s commitment to digital education and highlighted KU’s efforts in developing and promoting MOOC courses.

“The University of Kashmir has contributed approximately 100 courses with 3000 learning modules to the SWAYAM platform across various disciplines, helping students gain access to high-quality digital learning resources,” she noted.

Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganaie, in his remarks stressed on the need to instill critical thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship skills in students, recognizing the role of educators as mentors in shaping future-ready graduates.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor Forest Research Institute (Deemed to be university), Dehradun, Dr. Renu Singh, highlighted that the SWAYAM platform provides an excellent opportunity for expanding access to quality education and skill development.

Members of the Higher Education Council J&K, Prof. Shobha Bagai and Prof. Kavi Arya, also shared their insights on the occasion. They emphasized the importance of embracing artificial intelligence (AI) in education and exploring innovative ways to develop creativity and critical thinking among students to align present education with NEP 2020.

Earlier, Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, formally welcomed the dignitaries and participants to the workshop. The event was coordinated by Director EMRC KU, Dr. Salima Jan and her team.

The inaugural session of the workshop saw participation from the MoE officials, senior officers of the UT administration, heads of state higher education councils, key administrative officials, deans, heads of departments, faculty members, students and research scholars from the varsity, along with principals of affiliated colleges, university nodal officers (local chapters) and delegates and faculty from educational institutions across the northern region of the country.