AMRITSAR: The Guru Nanak Dev University has introduced a new scholarship scheme to promote research among University Ph.D scholars. Under this initiative, Ph.D students will receive a monthly scholarship of Rs. 8, 000 starting from July 2025. However, recipients will be required to publish research papers regularly to qualify for the scholarship.
The announcement was made by Vice Chancellor Prof. Karamjeet Singh while presiding over the Academic Council Meeting. The agenda of the meeting was presented by Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Palwinder Singh, while Registrar, Prof. Karanjeet Singh Kahlon, delivered the vote of thanks. The meeting was attended by a large number of Academic Council members.
Prof. Karamjeet Singh said that 100 Ph.D GNDU students will receive a monthly scholarship of Rs. 8, 000 each as part of a new initiative aimed at promoting research. He mentioned that funds for this scholarship program will be resourced by him and there will be no more financial burden on the university. The selected researchers will be required to present at least one research paper every four months, with the primary goal of enhancing the university's research output and publication record.
Vice Chancellor emphasized the importance of aligning academic programs with industry demands. He pointed out that despite earning degrees, many students lack the practical skills required by industries, leading to rising unemployment. He stressed that the university’s responsibility extends beyond education to ensuring students are employable or capable of generating employment.
During the meeting, the university’s various courses were reviewed, and Prof. Singh called for faculty members, department heads, college principals, industrialists, and students to contribute suggestions for curriculum updates. The aim is to equip students with skills that will help them overcome future challenges.
He also highlighted that many students graduate without mastering basic concepts of their respective fields. To address this gap, GNDU will offer online courses to help students strengthen their fundamentals.
In a significant development, the University has signed an agreement with a reputed Canadian university to offer international-level education at an affordable cost. Additionally, another agreement has been signed with a globally renowned institution known for its historical significance, fostering research and academic collaborations. In a bid to strengthen academic cooperation, a five-member team of experts from Guru Nanak Dev University is set to visit Samarkand State University in Uzbekistan, a university renowned for its historical significance. This visit aims to foster collaboration and exchange knowledge between the two institutions.
Apart from academics, GNDU continues to excel in sports, and plans are in place to provide world-class sports facilities to further enhance the university’s reputation in this domain. The meeting also approved new course curricula, including the syllabus for a Post-Graduate Diploma in Artificial Intelligence Solutions and Product Design. Furthermore, several courses have been renamed to better reflect modern industry requirements.
Prof. Karamjeet Singh reiterated that adapting to change is essential in today's fast-paced world and that GNDU must evolve in line with emerging trends. He attributed the university’s success to the blessings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and urged everyone to embrace change as a way forward.
The meeting concluded with faculty and council members expressing their commitment to supporting the Vice Chancellor’s vision, ensuring that GNDU remains at the forefront of education, research, and innovation.