Srinagar, May 28: University of Kashmir recently organised a programme titled “Do Degrees Matter?” aiming to shed light on unconventional teaching and learning strategies.
The event featured Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice-Chairman, Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Council (JKHEC), as the keynote speaker, and the Vice-Chancellor of Kashmir University, Prof Nilofer Khan as the chief guest besides Prof Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor Jammu University as the guest of honor.
In his welcome address, Prof. Khursheed Ahmed Butt, Dean College Development Council, highlighted the extensive contributions of Prof. Dinesh Singh in revolutionizing the academics and research at Delhi University (DU) and other institutions. Prof. Ahmed praised Prof. Singh for his innovative approach to education, which has inspired significant changes in the traditional educational framework.
Prof. Dinesh Singh, the keynote speaker, captivated the audience with his reflections on the importance of education beyond formal degrees. “Like all of you here, I have personal heroes,” he said. “And almost all of my heroes did not have degrees, or formal education played little role in what they became. Mark Twain once said, ‘I have not allowed my formal schooling to interfere with my education.’ Kabir, a man of immense knowledge, was illiterate but could orally recite thousands of verses. Srinivasa Ramanujan, who couldn’t clear intermediate class, is one of the greatest mathematicians of the world, yet Cambridge University awarded him a formal Ph.D. for his work.”
Prof. Singh emphasized that degrees and exams should be tools for students to enable themselves rather than rigid benchmarks of success. He argued that the current educational system’s reliance on standardized assessments often fails to recognize the unique abilities of individuals. “Our education systems should acknowledge and nurture the special talents and skills of each student,” he asserted.
In her address, Prof. Nilofer Khan echoed Prof. Singh’s sentiments, underscoring the importance of recognizing and honing the diverse skills of every student. “What Prof. Dinesh says is the most accurate reflection of our educational needs,” she said. “We need to appreciate and develop the distinct talents of each student differently.”
Prof Naseer Iqbal, Registrar Kashmir University, presented the vote of thanks while Prof. Syeda Afshana, Academic Coordinator DYD, introduced the keynote speaker and conducted the proceedings of the session.
The program was attended by faculty members, research scholars and senior officials of Kashmir University.