Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha praised the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) Awantipora, calling it an emerging center of learning with a national reputation for innovation, startups, and entrepreneurship. He was speaking at the university’s 19th Foundation Day celebration on Wednesday.
Addressing a gathering, the LG, who is also the Chancellor of IUST, noted that the campus has been celebrating the occasion in a festive spirit for the past week.
“The Foundation Day events began on November 7 with an open house, giving students a closer look at IUST’s achievements in research, innovation, and entrepreneurship,” he said.
He emphasised the university’s focus on youth empowerment through initiatives like academia-industry programs and technology exhibitions. “I believe IUST’s integration of science, technology, humanities, and social sciences under NEP 2020 over the past three years will greatly benefit students,” Sinha stated. He added that the National Education Policy provides a framework for multidisciplinary and holistic education.
The LG highlighted IUST’s growing prominence, earning a four-star rating from the Ministry of Education. “The university is making a mark beyond Jammu and Kashmir, especially in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship,” he remarked.
Sinha congratulated Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, faculty members, and students for their accomplishments.
Referring to the university’s motto, “Oh Lord, advance me in knowledge,” the LG underscored the importance of education that enhances intelligence, moral values, social awareness, and spiritual strength. He also quoted from religious scriptures, emphasizing that education is a powerful tool for societal transformation.
The LG called for a “skill census” to boost India’s share in the global GDP and said institutions like IUST are key to achieving this goal. He inaugurated the Tech Expo-2024, distributed financial aid under the Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme, and released university publications, including the “Design Your Degree Programme” concept and J&K and Ladakh Research Consortium By-Laws.
The event also featured the presentation of the university report by Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo and the presence of notable academicians, officials, and students.
Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Mobin, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar; Prof. Mohd Ashraf Ganie, Director, SKIMS; Prof Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi, Registrar IUST, senior officials, heads of various educational institutions, faculty members and students were present.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also addressed the Convocation Ceremony at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Srinagar. He congratulated the management, faculty, staff, and graduating students, extending his best wishes for their future.
The Lt Governor urged the young, creative graduates to address challenges in the domestic apparel and textile industry and work toward making India the fashion capital of the world. “Youth are the inheritors of our great civilization,” he said, expressing his belief that the blend of India’s cultural identity and youth’s creativity would transform the fashion industry.
Highlighting key initiatives under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Lt Governor spoke about efforts to strengthen the entire value chain from fiber to apparel and revive India’s rich cultural heritage. “J&K is a repository of Indian creative traditions, evident in our handicrafts and handlooms. We are committed to empowering our talented weavers and craftsmen,” he stated.
He commended NIFT for offering comprehensive education in design, fashion management, and communication, contributing to the growth of J&K’s artisans through Craft Cluster Projects.
“NIFT has become a leading fashion institution, producing skilled professionals for the textile and apparel industry. Your goal should be to create global brands. Your innovation and dedication will make Indian fashion competitive on the world stage,” he said.
The Lt Governor also paid tribute to celebrated fashion designer Rohit Bal, a Srinagar native, noting his transformative impact on Indian fashion. “His dynamic approach will inspire you to drive sustainable growth in this sector,” he added.
The event was attended by Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary of Industries & Commerce; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Rajiv Omprakashn, DIG CKR Srinagar; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Budgam; Prof. Monika Gupta, Director NIFT Srinagar; Prof. Sudha Dhingra, Dean Academics NIFT, along with senior officials, students, and faculty members.
