Is Jamia Millia Establishing a Department of Library and Information Science?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- JMI is establishing a new Department of Library and Information Science.
- Six teaching positions have been approved by the Union Ministry of Education.
- The department aims to enhance library education and training.
- JMI has offered library science courses since 1985 without permanent faculty.
- This initiative reflects the growing importance of information management in education.
New Delhi, July 1 (NationPress) - The Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) is on the verge of launching a Department of Library and Information Science following the Union Ministry of Education's recent authorization of six faculty positions for the university, as confirmed by an official on Tuesday.
“This signifies a significant growth, especially considering that since 1985, JMI has been offering the Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B. Lib. I. Sc.) programme without any permanent faculty,” stated Saima Saeed, Chief Public Relations Officer.
Saeed emphasized that the approval of these faculty roles will breathe new life into this highly sought-after course.
Vice Chancellor Professor Mazhar Asif remarked, “As a fundamental component of academic life on campus, libraries influence the direction of research and are pivotal in the advancement of knowledge, particularly in today's information-centric age.”
He shared his vision to enhance education in librarianship and information science by establishing a dedicated department to cultivate the next generation of proficient and knowledgeable librarians.
“The future faculty and students of the proposed department will not only contribute to the evolution of the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) but will also focus on its digitization and preservation for future generations,” added the Vice Chancellor.
Professor Asif and Registrar Professor Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Education Minister, the Ministry of Finance, and the University Grants Commission (UGC) for their backing and endorsement of JMI's initiative to create a Department of Library and Information Science.
Their unwavering support has been crucial in facilitating this growth, which will enhance the university's academic programs and mark a significant step in promoting the vital and expanding field of library sciences, they remarked.
Professor Asif and Professor Rizvi extended their congratulations to the JMI community on this substantial enhancement to the current educational offerings and skill development in the essential area of library and information sciences.
The Chief Public Relations Officer highlighted that this advancement will significantly benefit the 105-year-old university, whose Central Library was established in 1920, the same year it was founded.