Jammu, Feb 15 (Reporter) The University of Jammu will get much awaited exclusive Department of Journalism and Media Studies as Principal Secretary to Government, Finance Department and Financial Advisor Universities, Santosh D Vaidya, on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the building block for Department of Journalism and Media Studies at the University of Jammu, marking a significant moment in the infrastructural enhancement of the University. Speaking on the occasion, Vaidya assured full support of the Government for all these developmental initiatives, emphasizing the importance of providing comprehensive facilities to all the Universities. He underscored the need to equip educational institutions with the necessary resources for nurturing young minds and empowering them to contribute significantly towards the nation's growth. Vaidya expressed optimism about the role the Department of Journalism and Media Studies would play in shaping the future of aspiring media professionals. He highlighted the importance of fostering a learning environment that encourages boldness and transparency together with a constructive and progressive approach to ensure overall development of the nation. Vaidya specifically urged the Department of Journalism and Media Studies to cultivate the observers of tomorrow and emphasized the essential role of journalists, saying they have to be keen observers to evaluate the obtaining trends in an objective manner and contribute towards the harmonious growth of the society. He stressed that journalists should articulate change and possess the crucial skills of boldness and confidence, qualities that should be nurtured by the institution. The event was graced by the Vice-Chancellor University of Jammu Prof Umesh Rai and he expressed sincere gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor Jammu and Kashmir UT and Chancellor, University of Jammu Manoj Sinha for his unwavering support in realizing this crucial initiative. In her welcome address, the Dean, Planning and Development Prof. Meena Sharma gave a comprehensive overview of the project, highlighting its significance and the positive impact it is expected to have on the academic landscape of the university. She said that the G+2 building designated for the Department of Journalism and Media Studies is designed to encompass a total area of 17719 sqft (1646.74 m²) and the estimated cost of building is Rs 4.26 crores. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, University of Jammu announced the institution of Gold Medal (One Boys and one Girls) in the fond memory of her father S DRohmetra, a renowned journalist of Jammu and Kashmir. Registrar, University of Jammu Prof. Rahul Gupta extended a formal vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all attendees and emphasizing the collaborative efforts that have made this milestone possible. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr. Garima Gupta, Head, Department of Journalism and Media Studies...////...