Kashmir University has launched new five-year integrated master’s programs in data science, tourism, and geology. The University Council approved these courses on Sunday during its 84th meeting. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired the meeting at Lok Bhavan.
Mr. Sinha, also the Chancellor of Kashmir University, emphasized the need for academic programs aligned with the National Education Policy-2020. He stated these programs must be contemporary, interdisciplinary, and skill-oriented. The meeting focused on fostering innovation, employability, and entrepreneurship within the university curriculum. It also aimed to address local and regional development needs through academic initiatives.
New Integrated Programs Introduced
The University Council gave in-principle approval to several key academic proposals. These included the introduction of specific five-year integrated master’s programs (FYIMP):
- Applied Geology
- Tourism and Travel Management
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Home Science
Additionally, the Department of Earth Sciences will now be known as the Department of Geology. This change in nomenclature was also approved during the council meeting.
Academic and Administrative Approvals
Beyond the new master’s programs, the University Council approved a revised policy for international student admissions. This policy aims to streamline the process for global applicants.
The council also extended existing merit and merit-cum-means scholarship schemes. These benefits will now cover students enrolled in the new five-year integrated programs. Regulations governing these integrated programs, including the FYIMP in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, were also approved.
Expansion in Languages and Humanities
The university is also expanding its offerings in language and humanities disciplines. The council approved the introduction of FYIMPs in several areas:
- Hindi
- Linguistics and English Language Teaching
- Persian
- Sanskrit
- Kashmiri
These new programs aim to promote multilingual education and preserve cultural heritage. They also support advanced studies in classical and regional languages. The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) will offer a Master of Arts (MA) in History, with its program project report receiving approval.
New Institute and Diploma Programs
Further academic expansion includes the establishment of an Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Sciences. This institute will be located at the university’s Kupwara Campus. A new diploma program in Criminal Justice will also be offered through the CDOE. The Media Education Research Centre (MERC) received approval to introduce its own five-year integrated master’s program.
Attendees at the 84th University Council meeting included Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and various vice-chancellors from Jammu and Kashmir universities. Discussions covered multiple academic, regulatory, and institutional matters. These deliberations focused on strengthening governance structures and enhancing the quality of teaching, learning, and research at Kashmir University.