In a significant step towards academic enrichment and inter-institutional collaboration, 84 students from the School of Mathematics (SoM), Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) undertook an educational tour to NIT Srinagar and the University of Kashmir from March 10 to 12. The visit provided a valuable platform for students to engage with esteemed faculty and peers in a bid to enhance their academic and research exposure.
The delegation, comprising FYUG, M.Sc. Mathematics, B.Tech (Mathematics and Computing) and PhD scholars, participated in insightful discussions with distinguished professors. Professor M.A. Khanday, Head of the Department of Mathematics, University of Kashmir, emphasised innovative learning techniques and effective presentation skills. Professor Mohd Abdulla Mir engaged students in discussions on key mathematical challenges, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Dr M. Saleem Lone was also present during these interactions.
At NIT Srinagar, Professor Zamrooda Jabeen, Head of the Department of Mathematics, along with faculty members Professor Neyaz Ahmad, Dr Mehraj Ahmad Lone and Dr Rameez Raja, provided students with valuable insights into contemporary mathematical research and its applications.
Beyond academics, the tour offered students an immersive cultural and historical experience, allowing them to explore the rich heritage of Kashmir. They visited prominent sites including Gurudwara Chatti Patshahi, Shankaracharya Temple, Mughal Gardens, Dal Lake, and Pahalgam, deepening their understanding of the region’s history and traditions. Accompanied by faculty members Dr Kuldip Raj (Head, SoM), Dr Abhishek Singh, Dr Sandeep Sharma, Dr Vivek Kumar and Dr Sunil Kumar Sharma, the students gained exposure to diverse academic environments and research methodologies. The visit was coordinated with the support of student organisers Rohit Uppal (Lab Assistant), Devia Narrania, Samrati Gorka and Saksham Kudyar (M.Sc. student).
Expressing appreciation, Dr Kuldip Raj extended gratitude to Professor Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, SMVDU, for his encouragement and approval of the tour, which was conducted under the PM USHA Scheme. He also acknowledged the Heads of the Mathematics Departments at NIT Srinagar and the University of Kashmir for their support and valuable guidance to SMVDU students. This educational tour not only enhanced students’ academic and research perspectives but also inspired them to contribute towards sustainable development and interdisciplinary learning.
