The Department of Home Science (Human Development),University of Jammu, organized the graduation ceremony titled “Milestone Day” for the outgoing children of the Surabhi Nursery School and Day Care Centre, marking a significant developmental transition in the lives of young learners. The event was conceptualized as a celebration of early childhood achievements, integrating academic insight with joyful engagement.
Prof. Meena Sharma, Dean, Faculty of Science, University of Jammu, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, commended the Department for maintaining high standards in early childhood care and education. She emphasized that the Surabhi Nursery School represents one of the best practices within the University system and has, over the years, contributed significantly to shaping the cognitive, social, and emotional development of hundreds of children.
Prof. Monika Chadha, Chairperson, Campus Culture Committee, University of Jammu, the Guest of Honour, highlighted the critical importance of enriching early childhood experiences. She underscored that a stimulating and nurturing environment during the formative years lays the foundation for lifelong learning, creativity, and resilience, and appreciated the Department’s sustained efforts in this direction.
Earlier, Prof. Sarika Manhas, Head of the Department, Home Science, in her welcome address, reflected on the legacy of the Surabh iNursery School, noting that since 1998, the Department has been successfully running this preschool as a pioneering initiative. She described it as a significant extension activity of the Department, integrating teaching, training, and community outreach. She further emphasized the role of such institutional initiatives in promoting holistic child development while also serving as a practical training platform for students of Human Development.
The programme featured a vibrant array of activities, including dance and musical performances by the children, showcasing their emerging skills and confidence. Interactive games were thoughtfully curated to encourage active participation from both children and parents, thereby strengthening parent-child engagement.
A special segment of the event was the Healthy Snacking Competition, wherein parents presented diverse, innovative, and nutritious food options, reinforcing the importance of healthy dietary practices in early childhood. The competition was judged by Dr. Archana Bhatt, Assistant Professor, Department of Home Science, GCW Gandhi Nagar, along with Prof. Monika Chadha.
The gathering was also addressed by Prof. Rajni Dhingra and Prof. Neeru Sharma, who appreciated the Department’s consistent efforts in fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment for young children.
The event was efficiently coordinated by the students of M.Sc. Human Development (2nd Semester), reflecting their academic training and organizational skills. The successful execution of the programme was further ensured by the dedicated efforts of nursery teachers Mamta Singh, Pooja Bhat, and Seema Sharma, and caregivers Suman Devi, Neelam Devi, and Anu Devi, under the guidance of Dr. Charu Mohan, Senior Scientist.