SRINAGAR: The Dhaatu Mitra Club in collaboration with the Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering (MME) celebrated National Metallurgist Day with a series of vibrant and knowledge-driven activities at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar. The event was graced by the presence of Prof. Roohi Naaz, In-Charge Director of NIT Srinagar, and Prof. Atikur Rahman, Head of the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering (MME) and Registrar. They highlighted the pivotal role of innovation in shaping the future of the metallurgical industry.
In his key speech, Prof. Rahman elaborated on the opportunities provided under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The students now have the flexibility to choose elective courses beyond their core subjects, he said. "For instance, those interested in Fashion Technology or Photography, Interior designing can pursue these fields alongside their regular coursework. The future batches will greatly benefit from such provisions, allowing degrees to be completed within three years," he said.
Prof. Rehman said that education is transforming at a rapid pace. The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has already envisioned a framework where degrees are completed efficiently, aligning with emerging trends and technologies, he added. Earlier the event commenced with an inaugural speech by Dr.Aravi Muzaffar, followed by insights from Dr.Shafaq Lone and Dr.Sunil Kumar Jatav.
A variety of engaging activities captivated participants, including a quiz, a sketch competition, a metallurgical case study, a latent show, meme-making, and a unique Mr. and Miss Metallurgist competition that blended personality traits with technical acumen. The award ceremony was a highlight of the event, with the following winners recognized for their outstanding performances: Team Hurrain, Muntazir, and Azhar for the Quiz Competition.
Uman and Aakib for the Case Study Competition; Arun for the Sketch Competition; Abhishek for the Latent Show; Tarunjot Singh as Mr. Metallurgist 2024; and Tabish as Miss Metallurgist 2024. The awards were presented by Dr. Irfan Samad Wani and Dr. Anshul Gupta, acknowledged the participants' exceptional skills and creativity. The relentless efforts of Dhaatu Mitra were instrumental in the event's success. Special recognition was given to Mir Mohammad Toib, the president of the club, for his leadership and dedication.
The event was also attended by all faculty members, students of all braches at Common Hall. Two days before a special plantation drive, reinforcing the institute's commitment to sustainability. B.Tech students, research scholars, and faculty members enthusiastically participated by planting saplings in the department's garden.
On the occasion, Professor Atikur Rahman highlighted the importance of fostering a green and sustainable environment for future generations. The celebration was a perfect blend of learning, innovation, and camaraderie, leaving participants inspired and enriched in the field of metallurgy.