JAMMU, DEC 04: The week-long Chhau workshop, organized by Government College for Women (GCW) Parade Ground in collaboration with Rangyug and the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL), concluded with a vibrant valedictory ceremony. The event showcased the fusion of education and cultural heritage, with Commissioner Secretary, Higher Education, Dr. Rashmi Singh, as the chief guest, and Director Colleges, Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, as the guest of honor.
The workshop, a first of its kind in Jammu, introduced participants to the traditional Indian art form of Chhau, which combines martial arts, storytelling, and expressive physical movements. The initiative aimed to promote cultural heritage while equipping students with life skills aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
In her address, Dr. Rashmi Singh lauded the college for its innovative approach to integrating cultural arts into academia. She emphasized the significance of the newly introduced skill-based theatre course at GCW Parade and its role in providing holistic, multidisciplinary education. Highlighting the workshop’s success, she praised the collaboration with Rangyug and JKAACL, which enriched the learning experience.
The Commissioner Secretary also commended the college’s ‘Design Your Degree’ (DYD) initiative, a flexible academic program that allows students to tailor their courses according to individual aspirations and career goals. The initiative, she said, empowers students to take control of their educational journey.
Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir underlined the importance of cultural and skill-based programs in preparing future-ready students. He expressed appreciation for the synergy between GCW Parade and its collaborators in creating a platform for experiential learning.
Earlier, Principal of GCW Parade, Dr. Ravender Kumar Tickoo, welcomed the dignitaries and stressed the value of integrating performing arts into the college’s Skill Development Program. He highlighted the workshop’s impact on participants’ physical fitness, endurance, and self-confidence while fostering a deeper appreciation for Indian cultural heritage.
The workshop concluded with a Demonstration-cum-Performance by participants, trained under the guidance of resource persons Bhumikeshwar Singh, an internationally acclaimed expert in Classical Indian Drama, and Rudri Singh, a Chhau exponent and yoga teacher. The performance showcased the transformative skills acquired during the workshop, receiving resounding applause from the audience.
On the occasion, a newsletter on the ‘Design Your Degree’ initiative was also released, underscoring GCW Parade’s commitment to academic innovation.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Dr. S.P. Saraswat, Dr. Lalit Gupta, Padma Shri Rajinder Tickoo, Deepak Kumar, and Suresh Kumar Sharma (Retd. Judge). Prominent cultural and academic figures, such as Dr. Priya Dutta, Ashish Sharma, and senior journalist Ashok Sharma, along with faculty members from various colleges, were also present.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Gurpreet Kour, Coordinator, Skill Development Cell, who expressed gratitude to the contributors and participants for making the workshop a grand success.
