AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) convened the 13th meeting of its Executive Council, the apex executive body of the University, under the chairmanship of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo.

The Executive Council considered and approved several important academic, administrative, and developmental initiatives aimed at strengthening the University's academic and research ecosystem. The Council approved the recommendations of the Academic Council, Finance Committee, Building Committee, Library Committee, and Research Advisory Committee, besides deliberating on key institutional matters.

Among the major decisions, the Council approved the establishment and operationalization of new academic units, including the Centre for Excellence in Semiconductors and Quantum Materials, the Department of Earth Sciences, and the School of Law. It also approved the introduction of new academic programmes, including the Integrated Five-Year Law ProgrammeFour-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP) in Earth SciencesBachelor of Design (B.Des.), and an Undergraduate Programme in Cyber Security, subject to the fulfilment of applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.

The Council further approved the adoption of the University's Institutional Development Plan (IDP) as the strategic roadmap for advancing academic excellence, research, innovation, infrastructure development, industry collaboration, and institutional growth in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It also approved the establishment of the Museum of History, Art and Culture to promote interdisciplinary learning, preservation of cultural heritage, research, and public engagement.

As part of its commitment to equity, inclusion, and institutional excellence, the Executive Council approved the Welfare Policy for Persons with Disabilities and the revised Outreach Policy, aimed at promoting an inclusive campus environment, strengthening community engagement, and enhancing the University's outreach at the regional, national, and international levels.

The meeting was attended by members of the Executive Council, with several participating virtually, including Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu; Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir; Prof. Jawaid Iqbal, Vice Chancellor, BGSBU; Prof. Rama Shanker Dubey, Former Vice Chancellor, Central University of Gujarat; Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar; Prof. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Dean Academic Affairs; Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean Research; Prof. Parvez Ahmad Mir, Dean, School of Business Studies; Prof. Zamrooda Akhter, Principal, Alamdar Memorial College of Nursing and Medical Technology; and Dr. Monisa Qadiri, Dean of Students.

The Council appreciated the University's sustained efforts to strengthen its human resources through the ongoing recruitment process for vacant teaching and non-teaching positions. It expressed satisfaction with the timely progress of the recruitment process and reiterated the importance of ensuring transparent, merit-based, and expeditious appointments in accordance with the applicable statutory provisions and University regulations.

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