Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday called on graduating students to move beyond conventional employment avenues and become job creators, innovators and entrepreneurs. He said youth-led enterprise is vital for the sustainable prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the first-ever convocation of Cluster University of Jammu at Abhinav Theatre in Jammu, the Chief Minister described the university as a significant educational initiative aimed at integrating established academic institutions and promoting multidisciplinary learning.
Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar attended as Chief Guest, while Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Chancellor of the University, presided. Higher Education Minister Shamim Firdous, MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, Jammu East MLA Arvind Gupta and Vice-Chancellor Prof. K.S. Chandrasekhar were also present.
Congratulating the graduating students and gold medallists, Omar Abdullah acknowledged the contribution of parents, teachers and families to their achievements. He said the graduates were pioneers whose accomplishments would inspire future generations.
Highlighting the university’s model, he said it brings together five established colleges, GGM Science College, MAM College, SPMR College of Commerce, Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, and Government College of Education, to promote resource sharing and collaborative learning. He also welcomed its placement in the 151-200 band of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF).
The Chief Minister stressed the need for sustained investment in modern infrastructure, digital connectivity, laboratories and hostel facilities, particularly for students from remote districts. He also called for timely examinations and academic calendars so that students do not lose valuable academic years. He said universities would be given institutional support, academic autonomy, faculty strength and infrastructure to emerge as centres of knowledge and innovation.
Referring to the changing job market under the influence of artificial intelligence and technology, he emphasised continuous learning, critical thinking, sound judgment and adaptability. He identified agribusiness, food processing, sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, renewable energy and the digital economy as key sectors offering opportunities to young entrepreneurs. Pointing to the potential of local produce, including basmati rice, Bhaderwah rajmash, saffron, walnuts, kaladi and citrus fruits, he stressed value addition, branding and market access.
The government, he said, is committed to strengthening the start-up ecosystem, simplifying clearances and improving access to credit to encourage youth entrepreneurship. He urged graduates to uphold integrity, respect the dignity of labour and stay connected to their communities, and to preserve the pluralistic cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir while contributing to the development of their home region.
Later, the Chief Minister and other dignitaries presented medals and certificates to the graduates.
The remarks come at a time when youth employment is a prominent political issue in the Union Territory. By emphasising entrepreneurship and local value chains, the Chief Minister signalled a policy direction that goes beyond government recruitment, though the statement did not announce specific new schemes or targets.
