Budgam, Oct 21 (KNO): Director Colleges, Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department, Dr Twinkle Suri on Wednesday stressed the need to strengthen skill-based education, practical training and industry linkages to improve students' employability.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the valedictory session of two skill development courses at Model Government Degree College, Charar-i-Sharief, Dr Suri, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said basic digital skills had become essential for students in the modern era.
She said the Sashastra Seema Bal's 14th Battalion in Nagam had taken a positive initiative by organising two skill development programmes, Cyber Security and Digital Literacy, and Data Entry Operator, in collaboration with the college.
"Classroom learning alone is not enough. Students must be able to apply their knowledge in practical situations," Dr Suri said, adding that graduates should possess skills that help them secure employment and build successful careers.
She said the Higher Education Department was focusing on collaborations and industry linkages to ensure students receive practical training alongside academic education.
"Our vision is not limited to academic excellence. Skill development, innovation and confidence-building among students are equally important," she said.
Dr Suri said efforts were underway to expand such initiatives across Jammu and Kashmir, with several institutions exploring industry partnerships and collaborations to provide students with practical exposure and better career opportunities.
The two-week training programmes were organised under the SSB's Civic Action Programme 2026-27 of the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with the college's Department of Computer Science and IT—(KNO)