Sakeena Itoo Addresses National Technical Conclave on ISM at GCET Jammu
On January 17, 2026, Sakeena Itoo, the Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health, and Medical Education, delivered a significant address at the National Technical Conclave on the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) held at the Government College of Engineering and Technology (GCET), Jammu. The event was organized by GCET Jammu in collaboration with IIT Kharagpur and in association with the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Department of Industries and Commerce, Jammu and Kashmir Government.
Key Attendees
The conclave saw the participation of several dignitaries, including:
- Devyani Rana, MLA, Nagrota
- Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner Secretary Higher Education
- Naseem Javaid Choudhary, Director School Education Jammu
- Dr. Manish Kumar Hooda, Director Technology at ISM
- Dr. Sameeru Sharma, Director and Principal of GCET Jammu
- Experts from IIT Jammu and Keynes Technologies
- Senior faculty members of GCET and a large number of students
Importance of Education and Semiconductor Technologies
During her address, Minister Sakeena Itoo emphasized the transformative power of education, stating, “Education is a very powerful weapon which can change any aspect of the world.” She underscored the significance of semiconductor technologies, declaring them as the future and noting that our lives are increasingly intertwined with these advancements.
She highlighted the role of semiconductor technologies in driving economic growth, achieving technological self-reliance, and preparing a future-ready workforce in Jammu and Kashmir. Minister Itoo called for higher technical education institutions to take a leading role in:
- Nurturing skilled talent
- Promoting research
- Fostering industry-aligned curricula to meet the demands of the semiconductor ecosystem
Collaboration Between Academia and Industry
Sakeena Itoo urged academia, industry, and research institutions to collaborate closely to develop a robust pipeline of engineers and technologists equipped with cutting-edge skills. She stressed the importance of encouraging start-ups within engineering institutions to translate research into scalable solutions.
Commending GCET Jammu for hosting the conclave, she remarked that such platforms facilitate knowledge exchange and policy dialogue, providing students and faculty with exposure to societal priorities in advanced technologies.
Infrastructure Development at GCET
During her address, the Education Minister announced plans to upgrade the auditorium of GCET Jammu to modern standards, recognizing the institute’s rich legacy in the educational sector of Jammu and Kashmir. This upgrade aims to enhance the learning environment for students and faculty alike.
Encouragement for Students
MLA Devyani Rana, in her address, acknowledged the talent of students and youth in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that they have proven their mettle across various fields. She encouraged students to actively participate in the conclave, highlighting that chip design and semiconductor technologies will be pivotal in driving future employment and innovation.
Rana also emphasized the importance of internships for young students in the technological sector, particularly in emerging technologies. She noted that being competitive and employable is crucial in today’s job market, which is heavily influenced by technological advancements.
Capacity Building and Future Prospects
Ram Niwas Sharma, the Commissioner Secretary for Higher Education, reiterated the importance of GCET Jammu for the region. He urged young students to become drivers of change, aspiring to be job creators rather than job seekers. He also highlighted the necessity of capacity building for faculty in line with emerging technologies and developments.
Objectives of the India Semiconductor Mission
Dr. Manish Kumar Hooda, the Director of the India Semiconductor Mission, elaborated on the objectives of ISM, emphasizing its role in fostering a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem in India. The mission aims to enhance the country’s capabilities in semiconductor manufacturing and design, which are critical for various sectors including electronics, telecommunications, and automotive.
Conclave Activities
The National Technical Conclave featured a variety of activities designed to engage participants and foster discussions on semiconductor technologies. These included:
- Technical sessions
- Expert talks
- Interactive discussions with academicians, industry experts, and policymakers
These activities focused on exploring the opportunities and challenges under the India Semiconductor Mission, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Inauguration of PRISM Portal
During the event, Minister Sakeena Itoo also inaugurated the PRISM portal of GCET Jammu. This integrated academic and examination system is designed to benefit both students and faculty, streamlining processes and enhancing the educational experience.
Foundation Stone for Canteen Block
In addition to the conclave activities, Minister Itoo laid the foundation stone for a new canteen block at GCET Jammu. The construction, estimated to cost Rs. 2.54 crores, is being undertaken by the Roads and Buildings (R&B) department, further enhancing the infrastructure of the college.
In conclusion, the National Technical Conclave on ISM at GCET Jammu served as a vital platform for discussing the future of semiconductor technologies in India, emphasizing the importance of education, collaboration, and innovation in shaping a prosperous future for Jammu and Kashmir.
Note: This article is based on the events and statements made during the National Technical Conclave on ISM at GCET Jammu on January 17, 2026.
