SRINAGAR, DEC 30: In a bid to align education with the evolving landscape of emerging technologies and industry demands, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have introduced a comprehensive ‘Draft Policy.’
The policy outlines a multifaceted approach encompassing curriculum upgradation, infrastructure enhancement, faculty support, and a thrust on entrepreneurship development.
According to the draft policy, School, Higher, and Technical Education Institutions are urged to update their course curriculum to align with emerging technologies and industry requirements. Additionally, the introduction of new courses focused on entrepreneurship development is on the agenda. Efforts will be made to involve industry experts in teaching specialized elective courses at higher and technical education institutions.
To bridge the gap with global standards, the policy emphasizes the adoption of new pedagogic interventions and technology-based course delivery tools. This initiative aims to elevate the educational ecosystem of Jammu and Kashmir to international levels.
Infrastructure upgradation holds a prominent place in the policy, suggesting the introduction of a special scheme for facility enhancement. The government plans to support the improvement of infrastructure in existing schools, colleges, technical education institutions, and universities to align with global best practices in pedagogy.
According to the policy, faculty support is a key aspect of the policy, with a unique proposition for a two-year startup sabbatical for faculty members in colleges, technical education institutions, and universities. This initiative aims to encourage the commercialization of research conducted in academic labs and support faculty members in their entrepreneurial journey. The faculty will also be encouraged to engage with startups through mentoring, guidance, or consultancy, with an option for a minority stake of not more than 2 percent or executive membership in the advisory board of the startup.
The introduction of this draft policy signifies a comprehensive approach to revitalising the education sector in Jammu and Kashmir, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and global competitiveness. As the authorities aim to bridge the gap between academia and industry demands, this initiative holds the potential to reshape the educational landscape of the region.
