In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD), the national university of the Philippines, to promote academic cooperation and encourage mutual understanding between the two institutions. The MoU was signed by Prof. A.H. Moon, Dean Academic Affairs, IUST, and Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, Chancellor, UPD in presence of the Vice-Chancellor, IUST, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo.

The MoU outlines a wide range of collaborative areas including exchange of faculty, researchers and students, joint research projects, organization of lectures, conferences and symposia and other forms of cooperation. The MoU shall remain effective for five years and is extendable upon mutual agreement. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST, said that the collaboration will open up significant opportunities for academic engagement across Southeast Asian universities.

He highlighted that IUST has been steadily expanding its international partnerships in several southeast Asian countries, and this MoU marks an important milestone in strengthening those relations. He further mentioned that the scope of the MoU would be broadened in the future to encompass other areas of mutual interest. Chancellor Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan congratulated both universities on the collaboration and conveyed his commitment to expanding academic cooperation in diverse fields.

Prof. Moon highlighted that the two universities share several courses in common, which would make the collaboration more meaningful. Dr. Afroze A. Bisati, Dean SHSS, expressed optimism about the partnership and looked forward to joint initiatives in the coming years.

The ceremony was also attended by senior representatives of both universities including Prof. Maria Vanessa Lusung-Oyzon, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, UP Diliman; Prof. Ruth Lusterio-Rico, Dean, College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP), UP Diliman; Prof. Ma. Liza Ruth A. Ocampo, Chair, Department of Philosophy, CSSP, UP Diliman; Prof. Carlene Pilar-Arceo, Director, Office of International Linkages, UP Diliman; Assoc. Prof. Rhoda Wani-Obias, External Affairs Officer, CSSP; and Prof. Ma. Theresa T. Payongayong, Convenor, AUN Gender Justice and Inclusion and President, National Organization of Filipino Philosophy. From IUST, the ceremony was attended by Prof. Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi, Registrar; Mr. Sameer Wazir, Finance Officer; Dr. Ruheela Hassan, Dean Outreach; and senior officials and faculty members.

The MoU designates Dr. Muzaffar Ali Makka, Coordinator, Department of Philosophy, IUST, and Dr. Ma. Liza Ruth A. Ocampo, Professor, Department of Philosophy, UPD, as the points of contact for ensuring smooth implementation of collaborative initiatives.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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