Guru Nanak Dev University, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the The Sikh Regimental Centre, Indian Army, to provide higher education opportunities to Agniveers through the University's UGC-approved ODL & Online Programmes.
The MoU was signed during a ceremony held at the Committee Room of the Vice-Chancellor’s Office in the presence of Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh, Brig Digvijay Singh, SM, Commandant The Sikh Regimental Centre, Col Nitin Gautam, CO 4 Sikh and Maj DV Basnet, KC, 2IC 4 Sikh.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh described the collaboration as a significant step towards empowering the youth serving the nation under the Agnipath Scheme. He stated that education and skill development play a crucial role in shaping the future of young soldiers and this initiative will enable Agniveers to continue their academic journey without interrupting their military responsibilities.
He further emphasized that Guru Nanak Dev University remains committed to providing accessible, flexible and quality higher education to all sections of society through technology-enabled learning. Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh further stated that the University intends to expand this initiative by establishing similar partnerships with other regiments and formations of the Indian Army.
He also expressed the University's commitment to undertaking additional educational, training, research, and community outreach programmes for the welfare and holistic development of Army personnel. Under the MoU, Agniveers will be able to pursue various Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma and Certificate Programmes offered by the University through Online mode under Directorate of Online Studies of Guru Nanak Dev University while serving in the Indian Army.
The collaboration will help them acquire nationally recognized qualifications, enhance professional competencies and improve career prospects both during and after completion of their military service.Brig Digvijay Singh, SM, Commandant.
The Sikh Regimental Centre appreciated the initiative and stated that the programme would provide a valuable opportunity for Agniveers and also other army personals to upgrade their educational qualifications and skills while serving the nation. They expressed confidence that the collaboration would contribute significantly towards creating a highly skilled and academically empowered workforce for the future.
Prof. (Dr.) Harvinder Singh Saini, Dean Academic Affairs, informed that the University has developed a strong digital learning ecosystem in accordance with UGC-DEB guidelines. The Online Programmes offered by the University are designed to ensure flexibility, academic quality and industry relevance, enabling learners to study from any location without affecting their professional commitments.
Dr. Subheet Kumar Jain, Director, Directorate of Online Studies, highlighted that the MoU represents a major milestone for the University's Online Education initiative. He stated that the Online mode is ideally suited for Agniveers as it provides flexibility to learn from anywhere, access recorded lectures, digital learning resources, online academic support and AI-enabled examination facilities.
He added that the Directorate has established a dedicated digital infrastructure, including a Learning Management System, e-content repository and modern lecture recording facilities to ensure quality education for learners across the country and also abroad
Dr. Jain further informed that Guru Nanak Dev University currently offers a wide range of UGC-approved Online Programmes, including BA, B. Com, BCA, MBA, MBA (FM), MBA (HRM), MBA (MM), MCA, BCA, MA (English), MA (Punjabi) and various skill-oriented UG Diploma and Certificate Programmes.
Through this collaboration, Agniveers will gain access to these academic opportunities, enabling them to strengthen their educational profile and prepare for future career opportunities after their service tenure.Prof. (Dr.) K.S. Chahal, Registrar, described the MoU as a pioneering initiative that aligns with the national vision of skill development, lifelong learning and educational empowerment of India's youth.
The MoU signing ceremony at Guru Nanak Dev University was attended by senior university dignitaries, including Dr. Kamlesh Guleria, Professor (Incharge) Examination; Dr. Saroj Bala, Dean (CDC); Dr. Satnam Singh Deol, Dean Student Welfare; Mr. Sukhdev Raj Suri, Financial advisor, Mr. Praveen Puri, Director PR, as well as other University officials along with officers and JCOs of The Sikh Regiment.