Islamic University of Science and Technology celebrates 21 years of academic excellence, open day, fests mark foundation week celebrations

AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) celebrated its 21st Foundation Day on Wednesday at its Main Campus, Awantipora, with a series of activities. The events included Open Day, TechExpo 2026, Food Fest, Book Fest, Industrial Meet, Alumni Meet, Art Exhibition and Cultural Fest.

The celebrations commenced with the inaugural session at Nund Reshi Auditorium with Prof. Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor, IUST, who attended as Chief Guest, described the University’s 21st Foundation Day as an occasion to celebrate its achievements, institutional growth and collective endeavours. Calling IUST a symbol of transformation and progress, he congratulated all those who contributed to its remarkable journey over the past two decades.

Emphasising the need to reimagine teaching and learning, Prof. Romshoo highlighted the University’s Four year Undergraduate programs in emerging areas as a pioneering model of interdisciplinary and experiential education. He called for addressing National Education Policy implementation gaps and developing a robust, outcome-oriented roadmap for effectively implementing the NEP.

Prof. Romshoo urged the University to prioritise research, innovation and entrepreneurship that address J&K’s developmental challenges, generate employment and contribute to sustainable economic growth. Reaffirming IUST’s commitment to Viksit IUST 2047, aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he emphasised embracing AI and emerging technologies while safeguarding human wisdom, creativity and ethical values.

Dean Academic Affairs, IUST, Prof. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, said, IUST is not merely a degree-granting institution but an ecosystem that has evolved remarkably over the past 21 years. He said, the University has demonstrated its relevance in emerging fields and while Artificial Intelligence is being widely discussed, IUST had taken an early lead by launching a programme in AI. He added that a large number of students seeking admission to the programme speaks volumes about its relevance and quality.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Shameem Ahmad Shah, Registrar IUST, stressed that everyone needs to collectively work to take IUST to new heights of progress and play their full role in strengthening the connection between the University and society.

Prof. Shah further added that over the past year, several important initiatives had been undertaken in the University, particularly in the areas of academics, recruitment and promotions, which have witnessed significant progress. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders for their timely support and cooperation.

Dean Outreach, IUST, Dr. Ruheela Hassan, said, the University has developed a comprehensive outreach framework, which has gradually evolved into a model of institutional engagement that can be replicated and adopted widely.

Dr. Hassan highlighted that the outreach programme functions through four major verticals— Community, Alumni, Industry, and the Centre for Career Counselling and Placement. She said, over the past years, the University has established a strong engagement network through its Community Connect programme with schools and colleges, with about 12,000 students having visited the campus in the last two years.

The formal welcome address was proposed by Dr. Aabid H Shallah, Dean Research, while Dr. Monisa Qadiri, Dean of Students, proposed a formal vote of thanks.

Meanwhile, the University hosted scores of students from schools and colleges across different districts on the eve of Open Day. The aspirants visited canopies installed by all departments and centres of the University and interacted with faculty and students.

On the sidelines of the event, the School of Engineering and Technology organised TechExpo 202—a celebration of Ideas and Ingenuity. The Expo inaugurated by Prof. Romshoo featured Research and Innovation displays, Prototype Fabrication, and Departmental Stalls under the theme 'Explore, Create, Inspire — Ideas, Innovation, Discovery'.

The Food Fest was inaugurated by Prof. Shameem Ahmad Shah, The Registrar, IUST. The Book Fest at Rumi Library was inaugurated by Prof Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, the Dean Academic Affairs, IUST.

Simultaneously, three other major events were held: The Industrial Meet at the Conference Hall, Rumi Library and the Art Exhibition at Wastoorwan Art Gallery inaugurated by the Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, while the Alumni Meet at Lal Ded Auditorium was inaugurated by the Registrar. The celebrations concluded with the Cultural Fest, which was inaugurated by the Registrar. The Foundation Day was marked by enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, alumni, and industry representatives.