- In IUST, we have introduced diverse programmes to amalgamate science, technology and humanities in a way where all the disciplines work together, for holistic growth of the students: LG
- LG calls upon the youth to explore cutting-edge, transformative technologies and harness the power of innovation to benefit society, empower marginalised communities, promote inclusive and equitable growth for a brighter future
- LG inaugurates Tech Expo, congratulates IUST for emerging as an important Centre of learning, particularly for skillful human resources in STEM fields
AWANTIPORA: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today attended the Foundation Day of Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora. In his address, the Lt Governor extended his felicitations to the Vice Chancellor, faculty members and students on the occasion. He congratulated the University for emerging as an important Centre of learning, particularly for skillful human resources in STEM fields.
The Lt Governor, Chancellor of IUST, reiterated the commitment of the University to bring about perceptible change in society with its innovative and equitable practices. “My aim is to redefine learning and make our higher educational institutions and Youth future-ready. In IUST, we have introduced diverse programmes to amalgamate science, technology and humanities in a way where all the disciplines work together, for holistic growth of the students,” the Lt Governor said.
He highlighted that the innovative initiatives of IUST are in sync with the NEP 2020 vision to make higher education institutions future ready by providing multi-disciplinary and interdisciplinary education. IUST's efforts in the field of innovation, startups and entrepreneurship is being lauded across the country and it has achieved prestigious 4-star ranking by Union Ministry of Education, he added.
The Lt Governor called upon the youth to explore cutting-edge, transformative technologies and harness the power of innovation to benefit society, empower marginalised communities, promote inclusive and equitable growth for a brighter future. He further impressed on the teaching community and educational institutions to nurture and promote creativity, innovation, new technology, entrepreneurship, with focus on capacity building, skill development and lifelong learning to empower the youth and make them key partners in nation’s socio-economic development.
The Lt Governor also underscored the importance of skill census which will help in identifying areas for improvement and creating better employment opportunities. On the occasion, the Lt Governor inaugurated the Tech Expo-2024 at IUST and distributed financial assistance under Startup India Seed Fund Scheme. He also felicitated teachers and meritorious students, and released several publications including Design Your Degree Programme (DYDP): concept progress and institutionalisation, and J&K and Ladakh Research Consortium ByLaws.
Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor IUST, presented the University report and highlighted the achievements of the University. Series of programmes like Academic-Industry Conclave, Tech-Exhibition, Lit-Fest, and other activities, dedicated to youth empowerment, were organised as a part of Foundation Day celebrations. Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Mobin, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar; Prof. Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, Director, SKIMS; Prof Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi, Registrar IUST, senior officials, heads of various educational institutions, faculty members and students were present.
The honourable LG distributed seed fund cheques to four promising startups—GR8 Sports, Contragenix, Al Almeen Bayt, and Al Shanara—as part of IUST’s ongoing support for local entrepreneurship. Additionally, awards were presented to outstanding students and faculty in recognition of their achievements. Ten students were awarded in three categories that included D. Alburj R Rahman Best Student Awards (sponsored by Sultana Nahar from McPherson Lab, The Ohio State University), ARCO Cements Meritorious Student Awards and Sarah & G.H. Khan Scholarship Award. The Best Teacher Awards went to Dr. Basharat Ahmed (School of Engineering & Technology), Dr. Ruheela Hassan (School of Humanities and Social Sciences), and Dr. Peer Bilal (School of Sciences), while Dr. Rumaan Bashir received the University-Level Best Teacher Award.
In this address, Prof. Shakil A Romshoo, Vice Chancellor said that IUST is deeply committed to the successful implementation of the National Education Policy 2024, as we believe it is a transformative step towards a more holistic, inclusive, and skill-oriented education system. He reiterated that the university is committed to being a knowledge partner to all the stakeholders of the Union Territory, dedicated to identifying solutions to societal problems.
Registrar Prof. Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi highlighted that the university has pioneered initiatives in innovation and technology, ensuring that our students and faculty are equipped with the latest resources and opportunities to engage in meaningful research and entrepreneurship.
Dr. M. Ashraf Ganie expressed that SKIMS is open to engage in research collaborations with IUST, as partnerships like these drive impactful discoveries and innovative solutions that benefit our community. Prof. Mohammad Mobin, Vice-Chancellor of the Cluster University of Kashmir, added, “The university’s emphasis on integrating industry and academia is preparing a generation equipped with the skills and vision to lead in an evolving economy.”
The ceremony also marked the release of the DYOD Policy Report by the Chief Guest, alongside the launch of the J&K Research Consortium and DST Startup Scheme, underscoring IUST’s role in facilitating research and innovation in the region. A panel discussion on ‘Project Yuwa Scheme and Development of Nano-Entrepreneurship in J&K’ organized by CIED was also held. The five-day vibrant Cultural Festival, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Young Dramatists Society, celebrating the rich heritage and artistic talent of the region, also concluded today.
