Must empower UT youth to become nation-builders: CM

Asserting that Jammu and Kashmir stands at the threshold of transformation, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday emphasised that education is the most powerful tool for empowerment and equity, and must reach every corner of the Union Territory.

Addressing the 19th Special Convocation of the University of Jammu, Abdullah said, “Jammu and Kashmir stands at the threshold of transformation. Education is at the heart of this journey — empowering our youth to become innovators, entrepreneurs and nation builders.”

He urged the youth to become agents of positive change and to choose occupations that give them purpose, challenge their abilities and enable them to balance ambition with compassion.

Omar lauded the University of Jammu for serving as a “catalyst of progress,” producing not just skilled graduates but also “responsible, compassionate and resilient citizens.”

“As we march ahead, let us ensure that the light of knowledge reaches every corner — from this campus, from the campuses of Kathua and Bhaderwah, to the remotest hamlets of Poonch, Rajouri and Kishtwar,” he said.

Congratulating medal and degree recipients, Abdullah added, “The medals and degrees you receive are symbols of your perseverance, your teachers’ guidance and your families’ unconditional support. Carry forward the values you have learnt — integrity, curiosity and humanity.”

He emphasised that success should be measured not by individual achievements but by one’s contribution to society. “I urge you to dream big, think boldly, serve selflessly and contribute to building a nation marked by progress, harmony and inclusivity,” he said.

More than 400 of the 600 medal recipients were women. Vice-Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai noted, “Female scholars have outperformed their male counterparts by a ratio of nearly three to one in securing PhD degrees and gold medals this year, a proud reflection of women’s growing leadership in higher education.”

Between 2020 and 2024, 425 PhD degrees and 178 gold medals were awarded across batches.