VC JU releases book ‘Happy Schools’

Jammu, Jul 7: Underscoring the growing need to reimagine school education as a space that nurtures emotional well-being alongside academic achievement, the Vice Chancellor (VC) University of Jammu, Prof Umesh Rai has released the book “Happy Schools: Placing Happiness at the Heart of Schools.”

The book release function on July 4 was attended by Prof Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, and Prof Sangita Gupta, Head of the Department of Psychology.

The event stressed that in present dynamic learning environments, student happiness, mental health, and psychological safety must form the bedrock of effective education systems.

Authored by Dr Romesh Kumar, a seasoned psychologist, committed mental health advocate, and alumnus of the University’s Department of Psychology, the book is a timely contribution to the educational discourse that challenges traditional, performance-driven models.

Dr Kumar currently serves as Head of Department at DIET Jammu and has played a pivotal role in advocating for emotional wellness in school settings.

In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Jammu University (JU) stated that the future of education must be measured not just by academic outcomes, but by the emotional strength and resilience of students. He emphasised that schools must evolve into spaces where learning was joyful, safe, and meaningful.

“The real success of a school lies in the emotional confidence it instills in a child,” he said.

“Book ‘Happy Schools’ brings to light a vision of education that is compassionate, inclusive, and deeply aligned with the values of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It is not only a scholarly contribution but also a practical roadmap for educational reform. As an alumnus of this University, Dr Kumar’s work adds distinction to our academic legacy,” Prof Rai said.

The book offers a structured and accessible framework for school leaders, educators, parents, and policymakers to embed happiness and psychological safety into the ethos of schooling. Drawing from field experience and grounded in contemporary educational theory, ‘Happy Schools’ outlines actionable strategies to build emotionally intelligent institutions that prioritize student mental health alongside academic achievement.