Design Your Degree Team of SMVDU engages with IUST DYOD Team and Students

The Design Your Degree (DYD) Faculty Team, led by Dr. M. Sharada Potukuchi of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) recently engaged in a productive interaction with Faculty Mentors and Students from the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora as part of the Design Your Own Degree (DYOD) program. This meeting marks a significant step forward in innovative higher education strategies under the NEP-2020. Professor AH Moon, Dean of Academic Affairs at IUST, elaborated on the DYOD Program initiated in the Academic Session 2023-24. This unique four-year undergraduate course allows students to experience a broad range of subjects in the first two years across various Faculties. This foundational period is followed by a specialized focus in the student’s chosen field, facilitated by a bridge course offered in the fourth semester. The program’s core philosophy is project-based experiential learning, aiming to prepare students for real-world challenges. Dr. Ruheela Hassan, Coordinator DYOD, IUST, presented the program’s forward-thinking teaching methodology by showcasing the curriculum offered under various courses and their teaching pedagogy. She emphasized its dedication to skill development and practical knowledge application. A notable feature of the program is its social impact component, where students tackle societal issues, proposing and implementing innovative solutions. IUST’s faculty members have been trained at the prestigious Cluster Innovation Centre in New Delhi, prioritize hands-on learning and continuous assessment through project work and are offering the Program under their Design Innovation Center. This approach moves away from traditional blackboard teaching and regular examinations. An interaction with the students indicated that they are currently engaged in impactful projects, such as revitalizing the historical Avanti Swami site in Avantipora and addressing youth mental health issues by creating a podcast series aimed at reducing stress and anxiety in the society. Students have expressed their enthusiasm for the program, noting a significant boost in their confidence and presentation skills. The SMVDU team conveyed their appreciation for the insightful full-day interaction, extending special thanks to IUST’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Shakeel A Romshoo, for facilitating this opportunity. Both Universities share a commitment to leveraging technology to solve community problems and are exploring possibilities for joint initiatives and technical collaborations in future. SMVD University prepares to launch its DYD program for the 2024-25 Academic Session under the dynamic leadership of the Hon’ble VC, Prof. Pragati Kumar. The applications are now open to students interested in pursuing an Undergraduate Degree with a difference. The university promises a dynamic educational experience, allowing students to explore diverse fields before deciding on their area of specialization. This program aims to equip students with essential social and technological skills, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to society.