Jamia Millia Islamia to Launch Library Science Department After Nearly 40 Years

After nearly four decades, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) is about to launch a Department of Library and Information Science. This follows a green light from the Ministry of Education, which approved six teaching positions for the institution. This advancement is notable as JMI has previously conducted its Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib.I.Sc.) course without permanent faculty since its inception in 1985. The introduction of permanent teaching staff is expected to invigorate the popular program.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Mazhar Asif and Registrar Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi expressed their sincere gratitude to key government officials, including the Prime Minister and the Union Education Minister, for their support in this academic expansion. They acknowledged that such backing was instrumental in enabling this development, which will significantly bolster JMI's academic framework and enrich the field of library sciences.

The move has been received positively by JMI's academic community. Prof. Asif emphasized the pivotal role of libraries in fostering research and knowledge advancement, stating, "Libraries are integral to the academic journey, shaping research trajectories and advancing knowledge, particularly in this information era." He envisions establishing a comprehensive library sciences department that will empower future librarians to manage and innovate within the institution's extensive collections. Registrar Prof. Rizvi further highlighted the department's potential to spearhead advancements in the Indian Knowledge Systems while adapting to technological progress for future challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)