SRINAGAR: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo today underscored the need for higher education institutions of Jammu and Kashmir to align themselves with aspirations of students and modern academic standards. The Minister made these remarks while chairing a meeting at Civil Secretariat here to review academic and administrative functioning of the Kashmir University (KU).

The meeting was attended by Vice Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan; Registrar KU, senior officers of KU and Higher Education department. During the meeting, the Minister took a comprehensive assessment of university’s progress across multiple fronts, like teaching and research output, infrastructure development, student welfare measures and other initiatives of the university.

She emphasized that the student community must remain at the core of every policy and reform initiative, as they are the true stakeholders of the education system. The Minister observed that many challenges faced by students stem from delayed administrative processes, lack of timely communication. She called on the university administration to adopt a student-friendly model that ensures smoother functioning of academic and administrative services.

“Students should be the top priority of all our academic institutions. They should feel that their concerns are heard and addressed promptly,” she said. Stressing the importance of building trust, Minister Sakeena urged the university leadership to institutionalize transparent systems for examinations, admissions, financial management and research programs. She added that openness in decision-making and clarity in procedures will reduce grievances, prevent delays, and enhance the credibility of the university in the eyes of its students and society.

Highlighting that regular interaction forums between students, faculty, and administrators is necessary to build dialogue and trust, she encouraged the officers to develop dedicated student grievance redressal cells with clear escalation mechanisms. Acknowledging the rich academic legacy of Kashmir University, Minister Sakeena said that this prestigious institution carries a responsibility to set benchmarks for higher education in the region.

“Kashmir University must aspire to be more than just a centre of higher learning, it should be a hub of opportunity, innovation, and growth, where every student feels empowered to achieve their dreams,” she noted. The Minister urged upon the University authorities to work collaboratively with students and faculty to implement these reforms in a time-bound manner. She assured her continued support in strengthening the institution and making it a beacon of academic excellence and student welfare.

On the sidelines of the meeting, the Minister also took stock of various issues and grievances raised by students of KU who had come to meet the Minister. While interacting with these students, Sakeena Itoo assured them prompt redressal of grievances and issues raised. She also gave directions for onspot redressal of various grievances raised by the students.

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