Dr. Romesh Kumar, a certified career mentor and counselor stands as a beacon of inspiration in the realm of career guidance and counseling. A seasoned professional with an illustrious academic and professional background, Dr. Kumar has been instrumental in reshaping the career counseling ecosystem in the region. His qualifications, including a Ph.D. in Psychology, certifications from NCERT, and recognition as a certified career mentor and counseling psychologist, underpin his credibility and dedication to the field. He works as a Senior Lecturer in Psychology with the School Education Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir.
With over eight years of experience as the Head of the Counseling Cell at the Directorate of School Education, Jammu, Dr. Kumar has pioneered numerous initiatives to institutionalize career counseling in the education system. During his tenure as Head Counselling Cell DSEJ numerous initiatives like constitution of Counselling cells in Schools, District and Zonal Counselling coordinators, starting a Helpline facilitated implementation of Career Guidance initiatives to far flung Areas.
His efforts to integrate career counseling into the annual counseling calendar of the Directorate of School Education have provided a structured framework for guiding students. Additionally, his leadership in piloting the Tamanna Aptitude Test, developed by NCERT, and advocating for psychometric testing and individualized sessions has introduced scientific rigor to career counselling practices in government schools.
Dr. Kumar’s collaborative approach is evident in his work with esteemed organizations such as UNICEF, Transform Foundation, and Bharti Foundation,ICAI. These alliances have facilitated the successful execution of several projects aimed at equipping students with informed career choices. His work in promoting the “Manzalein” Career Guidance Portal, in collaboration with UNICEF, is a landmark achievement that underscores his commitment to leveraging technology for career counseling. He has also contributed to the development of career cards and online career guidance program by UNICEF.
A regular visitor to renowned institutions such as Army Public Schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas, and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, Dr. Kumar has extended his expertise to a wide spectrum of learners. His dedication to inclusivity is further reflected in his guidance of interns from prestigious institutions, including Jammu University, Central University of Jammu, and IGNOU, enriching the next generation of career counselling professionals.
Dr. Kumar has conducted numerous virtual,offline counseling sessions himself and also in collaboration with prominent organizations like PsyUni, Institute for Career Studies (Lucknow), Institute for Chartered Accounts of India (ICAI) ,Samagra Shiksha , Transform foundation, Mindler has democratized access to career counselling, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic. His initiatives have not only empowered students but have also set benchmarks in the domain of career guidance in India.
Through his unwavering dedication, Dr. Romesh Kumar has become a renowned name in guidance movement in Jammu & Kashmir. His vision and relentless efforts continue to illuminate the paths of countless students, preparing them for a future filled with promise and purpose. As an architect of change, Dr. Kumar’s work serves as a testament to the transformative power of guidance and education.
A staunch advocate for early intervention, Dr. Kumar emphasizes the importance of introducing career counseling as part of the curriculum starting from middle school. He believes that aligning career choices with students’ aptitudes, interests, personalities, and motivators is key to enhancing productivity, well-being, and job satisfaction while reducing career attrition rates. His holistic approach to career counseling underscores his commitment to fostering a generation of empowered and purpose-driven individuals.
Dr. Romesh Kumar’s work stands as a testament to the transformative power of dedicated career guidance. His vision, coupled with his scientific approach and collaborative spirit, has laid the foundation for a robust career guidance ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir. Through his relentless efforts, he continues to inspire educators, students, and policymakers alike, ensuring that every student in the region is equipped to navigate their journey with clarity and confidence.
