Central University of Kashmir Extends Winter Vacation Till February 14; Offline Classes to Resume February 17

Central University of Kashmir

The Central University of Kashmir (CUK) on Thursday announced extension of winter vacation till February 14.

“Due to inclement weather conditions and ongoing student internship programs outside Jammu & Kashmir, the university has decided to resume its offline classwork from February 17,” reads a communique of CUK.

The notification further states that the regular classwork will be conducted online from February 10 to February 14.

The decision was taken following a meeting of Deans and Heads of Departments (HODs) with an approval from the competent authority to ensure uninterrupted academic activities.

Meanwhile, all Heads and Coordinators of Departments have been directed to structure the academic timetable efficiently so that the syllabus for the even semester is completed before the End Semester Examinations (ESE).

Earlier, university was scheduled to re-open on February 10, after a long winter break—(KNO)

Sakeena Itoo Addresses Annual Function at SGSD International School at Baba Jitto Auditorium SKUAST

at Baba Jitto Auditorium SKUAST

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today addressed the annual function of SGSD International School at Baba Jitto Auditorium SKUAST here.

The Minister, who was chief guest on the occasion, in her address reaffirmed government’s special focus on health and education under the leadership of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, ensuring that necessary assistance will be provided to all institutions working for bringing vibrancy in these important areas.

She further highlighted the critical role of schools in preventing drug abuse among the younger generation. She urged the parents and teachers to extend cooperation to the government agencies in curbing this menace collectively.

Acknowledging the talent among the children of J&K, Sakeena appreciated outstanding cultural performances and the talent displayed at the event. She emphasized the importance of schools in shaping the future of young minds, helping them realize their dreams of becoming doctors, administrators, engineers or social workers.

“Constructing a building is not the big thing, what truly matters is how much we contribute to its functioning,” she said, adding that the government is committed towards supporting schools like SGSD in their mission.

Minister for Agricultural Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election departments, Javed Ahmad Dar, also attended the program.

He lauded SGSD International School for its commitment towards providing quality education and empowering students to excel in academics and sports. He appreciated school’s dedication towards ensuring holistic development of the children enrolled there.

Encouraging the students to keep learning and upgrading their skills in line with modern advancements, the Minister described SGSD International School as a model institution contributing significantly to the upbringing of responsible and capable citizens.

The Minister assured that the government will extend all possible support to help such schools grow and continue their mission of academic excellence and social development.

During the programme, the students presented various cultural programs showcasing multi cultural and traditional folk and local dance forms of various states.

The event also included a felicitation ceremony honouring young achievers in academics and sports on the occasion.

Among others, former Minister, Ajay Sadhotra; Principal Anil Pathanya, Administrator Manjit Singh; Chairman Sant Tejwant Singh and Trustee Baldev Singh were also present on the occasion.

Students from Dangiwacha Bag Second Place at Amazon Innovation Summit with ‘Happy Bees’ Project

'Happy Bees' Project

Bringing laurels to the Valley, students of government higher secondary school Dangiwacha bagged second position at Amazon Innovation Summit held recently.

The students namely Asmat Tariq, Tabasum Fayaz, and Mohammad Idrees Sofi displayed their innovative project titled “Happy Bees” at the “Amazon Future Engineer Summit 2025 organized by Amazon at Hotel Taj Palace, New Delhi.

The students were guided by their teacher Tajamul Naseem Lone.As per the official handout, the project was selected among the top 15 innovations nationwide by Amazon and was evaluated by nearly 30 teams of engineers from the Amazon Innovation Team.The students and their mentor were honoured with merit certificates and trophies by the organisers.

NIT Srinagar Hosts ‘Research Reimagined: From Ideas to Impact’ Workshop

NIT Srinagar

The Department of Electronics & Communication Engineering, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar successfully organized a one day workshop titled “Research Reimagined: From Ideas to Impact” under the Scientific Social responsibility head of the DST-SERB Project.

The workshop was graced by In-charge Director NIT Srinagar and Dean Research and Consultancy Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir and Associate Dean Research and Consultancy Dr. G.R. Begh. HOD ECE Dr. Gausia Qazi, Head, IIED Centre Prof. Najeeb-ud-Din and workshop coordinator Dr. Bisma Bilal among other dignitaries also were present on the occasion.

The event brought together researchers, academicians, and students eager to explore the latest methodologies in research and innovation. The workshop featured expert sessions on key topics including Research Methodology Mastery, the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in Research, and the essential steps involved in the Patenting Process.

In her inaugural address, Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir highlighted the significance of the workshop’s theme, “Research Reimagined: From Ideas to Impact”, emphasizing its relevance in today’s rapidly evolving research landscape.

“There is importance of critical thinking in research and participants should approach their work with a mindset that challenges conventional ideas and fosters innovation,” she said.

Prof. Roohie also encouraged attendees to thoroughly analyze the problems they select and consider the bigger picture in their research endeavors.

Meanwhile Dr. Jagwinder Singh Associate Professor, Department of Humanities & Management, NIT Jalandar, Dr. Sadbhawna Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science & Engineering, MNIT Jaipur and Mr. Jawaaz Ahmad Design Fellow, Design Innovation Centre, Islamic University of Science &Technology, Awantipora were the key speakers of the event.

HOD ECE Dr. Gausia Qazi, who also served as the Co-Convener of the workshop, stated that the event was designed to help researchers, academicians, and students transform their ideas into impactful innovations.

“The workshop included sessions on Research Methodology, offering insights into effective research techniques; Harnessing AI for Research, exploring how AI can enhance research outcomes; and Patent Filing, where participants learned essential steps to protect their innovations and navigate the patenting process,” she added.

Dr. Gousia said that the workshop provided participants with an opportunity to engage with key topics and served as a platform for learning and knowledge exchange, enabling attendees to explore new perspectives in their research endeavors.

“ECE Department is committed to organizing such impactful events, aiming to empower researchers, academicians, and students to translate ideas into tangible, real-world solutions, she added.

Prof. Najeeb-ud-Din, Convener of the workshop, emphasized the importance of fostering a collaborative research environment that encourages innovation and creativity. “The focus of the workshop was to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, he said.

He further highlighted the significance of peer groups in research and encouraged participants to approach their work with a mindset that drives meaningful change in their respective fields.

Coordinator of the event, Dr. Bisma Bilal shared that the event received a tremendous response, with students from various institutions such as NIT Srinagar, SKUAST-Kashmir, and other colleges registering for the workshop.

She expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the workshop. She acknowledged the visionary leadership of Prof. Najeeb-ud-Din, Convener, and Dr. Gausia Qazi, Co-Convener, along with the invaluable insights shared by the key speakers.

Dr. Bisma also extended special thanks to the student coordinators, Furkaan Fazili and Arfa Jan, for their exceptional dedication and support throughout the event.(KNS) 

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Warns of High Forest Fire Risk in Jammu and Kashmir Due to Extended Dry Spell

Forest Fire Risk in Jammu and Kashmir

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning of a very high risk of forest fires in Jammu and Kashmir over the next seven days due to an extended dry spell in the region.

The advisory, valid until 11 am on January 30, highlights an alarming rise in fire incidents, particularly in the Jammu region.“Very High Forest Fire Risk is likely to occur over forest areas in J&K in the next seven days. In case of emergency, dial 112,” the NDMA stated.

Jammu and Kashmir, a forest-rich region, has 20,230 square kilometers of forest, covering around 10% of its geographical area. Excluding Ladakh, where natural forests are minimal, the forest cover rises to 47%.

The forests in Kashmir mainly belong to the dry temperate category, with Deodar, Kail, and Fir trees flourishing at different altitudes.

While these evergreen forests are generally less susceptible to fires due to their dense ground cover, extended dry conditions significantly increase the risk.

Officials noted that the region has recorded an 81% deficit in rainfall from January 1 to 22, receiving only 11.4 mm compared to the normal 60.5 mm for this period. This severe shortfall in precipitation has heightened the forests’ vulnerability during the ongoing dry spell.

Authorities urge residents and forest personnel to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent and respond to potential fire outbreaks.(KNS)

Professor Zakia Ather Siddiqi Honored with Women Icon of the Year Award 2024

Professor Zakia Ather Siddiqi

Professor Zakia Ather Siddiqi, OSD of Aligarh Public School, was honored with the prestigious Women Icon of the Year Award 2024 at a grand ceremony held at Town Hall, Puri, on December 31, 2024.

A distinguished Indian educationist, Professor Siddiqi is renowned for her significant contributions to women’s education.

She served as the Principal of the Women’s College at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), where she played a pivotal role in advancing academic excellence and empowering female students.

She was recognized for her outstanding efforts in promoting academic excellence and fostering the growth of students and educators alike. Her visionary leadership and innovative teaching methods have set a benchmark for others to follow.

Under her dynamic guidance, Aligarh Public School has won the Digital India Competition Award four times—in 2017, 2018, 2023, and now in 2024. This remarkable achievement highlights her dedication to nurturing a culture of innovation and excellence in education.

The award was presented by the World Educational Welfare Foundation, a Government of Odisha undertaking, in recognition of her contributions to education and her positive impact on the community.

SED Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar Gupta Highlights Vocational Education Initiatives in J&K Schools

Vocational education

The Principal Secretary of the School Education Department (SED) Jammu & Kashmir, Suresh Kumar Gupta, announced the introduction of vocational cum skill education in 1315 schools this year, with plans to expand to 554 more schools in 2024-25.

During an extensive tour of educational institutions in Kathua district, Gupta visited several schools including Government High School Uchapind, Government Higher Secondary School Gurah Kalyal, Government Higher Secondary School Nagrota Gujroo, and Government Middle School Kandharnoo.

Accompanied by Director School Education Jammu Ashok Kumar, Project Director Samagra Shiksha Rakesh Magotra, and other officials, Gupta assessed the quality of education and infrastructure. He emphasized academic excellence, holistic development, and innovative teaching methodologies.

Gupta issued directives for improving basic facilities, promoting digital education, and strengthening vocational training programs. He praised the efforts of teachers in fostering a positive learning environment and highlighted the importance of skill education.

This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing the education sector and creating a conducive learning environment for students in Jammu & Kashmir.