Empowering Students: Udaan Career Awareness Campaign in Himachal Pradesh

The Udaan initiative in Himachal Pradesh aims to empower students by providing career guidance in a rapidly evolving job market. Held at Dayanand Model Senior Secondary School, the event featured insights from education officials and university professors, encouraging students to explore diverse career paths beyond traditional options. With a focus on skill-based learning and practical knowledge, the initiative seeks to equip youth with the tools necessary for success. As the program expands, it promises to enhance career awareness across schools in the region, fostering informed decision-making among students.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 26, 2025, 19:07 IST

Udaan Initiative Aims to Guide Students

Kumkum Mataik
Dharamshala: On December 26, 2025, a significant career-awareness event titled ‘Udaan: Discover Your Direction’ was held in Dharamshala, organized to assist students in navigating their career choices amidst a rapidly changing job landscape.

The event took place at Dayanand Model Senior Secondary School in Kangra district, in partnership with Aarni University.

Approximately 200 students from grades X, XI, and XII engaged in this interactive session, which emphasized career clarity, emerging job opportunities, and skill-based planning. The principal, Meenakshi Gautam, expressed her support for the initiative, underscoring the necessity of early career guidance.

Dr. Vishal Sharma, an HAS officer and Secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education, was the chief guest. He encouraged students to explore unconventional career paths, noting the diverse courses available in today's education sector. He advised students to pursue options aligned with their interests and abilities rather than succumbing to societal pressures.

During his interaction, Dr. Sharma elaborated on various academic streams—Science, Commerce, and Humanities—and discussed competitive exams like NEET and CLAT that students can consider. He dispelled myths surrounding careers in law and humanities, clarifying that students from science backgrounds can also transition into law, commerce, or design.

Exploring Unique Academic Paths

He highlighted lesser-known options such as IIT Humanities, UCFO, and Bachelor of Design programs at IITs, which are now accessible to humanities students. Dr. Sharma emphasized that success is not solely determined by academic performance, urging students to recognize their talents and combine them with hard work and dedication.

“As the youngest nation globally, we must involve parents in career counseling sessions to ensure students receive well-rounded guidance at home,” he stated. He also pointed out that the New Education Policy (NEP) will award credits for non-academic activities, focusing on practical knowledge and holistic development.

The session concluded with a strong message against rote learning. “Education should not be about mere memorization; it should invite engagement with the subject,” he remarked.

Guidance from Aarni University’s Ashish Prashar

The counseling was led by Ashish Prashar, an Assistant Professor in Business Management at Aarni University. He provided insights on career planning, self-confidence, and decision-making, while also introducing various academic programs available at Aarni University.

Prashar emphasized the increasing relevance of skill-based and short-term courses under the NEP, motivating students to pursue continuous self-improvement. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita, he reminded them that challenges are part of life, and perseverance is essential for success.

“Always believe in your potential; strive to grow and succeed in your unique way,” he advised the students. He shared valuable insights on career planning and the expectations of the academic and professional world, while also showcasing Aarni University’s diverse offerings.

He expressed appreciation for the initiative, recognizing its importance in providing meaningful career awareness in Himachal Pradesh.

Sunil Chadha, Executive Editor, stated that the Udaan initiative is designed to empower youth by helping them identify their strengths, explore non-traditional career paths, and make informed decisions. “Udaan is about equipping youth with the awareness and confidence necessary for success in today’s world,” he noted.

Since its launch in 2022, the organization has combined research-driven journalism with community initiatives, including the TNR-Shining Star Awards and the Dharamshala Spring Carnival, to promote local culture and tourism. With Udaan, they aim to expand structured career guidance to schools throughout Himachal Pradesh in the near future.