Alumni Meet 2026 organized by CDOE, University of Jammu 

Jammu, January 21: The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), University of Jammu, organized its first-ever Alumni Meet on January 21, 2026, at the Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium, as part of the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Centre. The event was marked by great enthusiasm and witnessed active participation from distinguished alumni, faculty members, and invited guests.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment. This was followed by a formal welcome through the presentation of potted plants. Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava, Director, CDOE, presented potted plants to the Chief Guest, Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar, University of Jammu, and Col. Virendra Kumar (Retd.), Vir Chakra awardee and renowned social activist. Dr. Hina Abrol, Associate Professor, Department of History and Coordinator, Alumni Cell, CDOE, presented a potted plant to Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava as a mark of respect.

In his welcome address, Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava highlighted the rich legacy of the institution and the enduring bond shared by its alumni with CDOE. Reflecting on the humble beginnings of the Centre nearly five decades ago, he traced its remarkable evolution into a learner-centric hub of distance and online education. Emphasizing lifelong association, he remarked, “Once a learner of CDOE, always a part of CDOE,” and announced efforts to formally establish the CDOE Alumni Association with an elected body to strengthen engagement between past and present learners and to revive cherished academic memories.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Hina Abrol warmly welcomed the alumni and traced the evolution of the Centre, emphasizing its learner-centric approach rooted in inclusivity, flexibility, and lifelong learning.

Sharing his experiences, Col. Virendra Kumar (Retd.), Vir Chakra awardee, expressed deep nostalgia associated with his time at CDOE. He reflected upon his journey through various prestigious positions during his service in the Indian Army and underscored the importance of giving back to society.

Dr. Manoj Bhagat, Principal, Regional Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Nagrota, Jammu, highlighted the critical role of education in strengthening healthcare systems and promoting legal awareness in society. He emphasized the need for socially responsible institutions and professionals committed to nation-building.

Ms. Roma Devi, Vice Principal, KC International School, Jammu, shared her experiences as a learner at CDOE and appreciated its academic environment, acknowledging the Centre’s role in shaping her professional growth. Mr. Pawan Kapur, Chartered Accountant, fondly recalled his association with CDOE and expressed gratitude for the strong academic foundation and enriching experiences that contributed significantly to his professional journey.

In his address, the Chief Guest Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar, University of Jammu, appreciated the initiative of organizing the alumni meet and acknowledged the achievements of CDOE alumni. He emphasized that students of CDOE are at par with regular students in terms of academic excellence and professional competence. Highlighting the importance of digitalization, he remarked that innovation would continue to shape the future of education, with CDOE serving as a successful model of quality distance and online learning.

This was followed by the presentation of mementos by Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava to the Chief Guest and distinguished alumni as a token of appreciation and gratitude. The alumni felicitated included Col. Virendra Kumar; Ms. Anju Manhas, Senior Lecturer, School Education Department; Mr. Pawan Kapur; Ms. Manju Chib, Education Department; Dr. Manoj Bhagat; Mr. Jyoti Swaroop Baru, Retired Lecturer, Education Department; and Ms. Roma Devi. The programme also featured cultural performances, which added colour and vibrancy to the event.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Rajber Singh Sodhi, Assistant Professor, Department of Punjabi, CDOE, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, alumni, organizers, and participants for their cooperation and support. The programme was efficiently conducted by Dr. Jasleen Kaur, Assistant Professor, Department of English, CDOE.

The Alumni Meet 2026 successfully strengthened the bond between the Centre for Distance and Online Education and its alumni, paving the way for future collaboration and mutual growth. The programme was concluded with the cultural activities performed by the students of CDOE.