SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (J&K BOSE) has put affiliation of 4 schools under suspension following confirmation of reports about adoption of non- J&K BOSE prescribed textbooks in their institutions.
These schools are being issued show- cause notices as to why their affiliation cannot be cancelled for open defiance of terms and conditions of affiliation and violation of J&K BOSE Act.
In a press note issued here today, J&K BOSE while giving details revealed that affiliation of Radiant Public School, Anantnag, Solace International School, Pulwama, Holy Mission School, Narbal, Budgam and Pioneer Educational Institute, Hanjiwara, Pattan, Baramulla was put under suspension and their Board related facilities were withheld forthwith.
The schools which were imposed fine include Candid Higher Secondary School, Nowgam, Fayaz Educational Institute, Chanapora, Nowgam, Al- Fajr Institute, Chanapora, Nowgam, Al- Huda Public School, Pattan, Baramulla, Shamas Memorial School, Khansahib, Budgam, Hanfia High School, Frisal, Kulgam, Future Vision School, Bandipora and Linton Hall School, Rajbagh, Srinagar.
The institutions were directed to deposit the penalty amount within a week in default of which disaffiliation proceedings will be initiated.
Meanwhile, the Board has issued stern instructions to private schools to ensure adoption of prescribed curriculum including textbooks, which it said are aligned with NEP- 2020 involving age appropriate content of NCERT.
The textbooks, BOSE said are affordable and cost effective with focus on competency-based learning in sync with physical and mental development of children. Adoption of these books ensures academic growth without bringing mental pressure to the children in their formative stages of development, it added.
Ganderbal, Nov 20: Rajbhasha Cell, Central University of Kashmir (CUK) Thursday organised a one-day workshop on “Standardization of Technical Hindi” at Tulmulla Campus.
Addressing the participants, Registrar, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, said, workshops like this enable employees to use Hindi accurately in official work, documentation, correspondence, and other communications. “Today’s workshop is an important step in equipping the staff with the professional competence required for seamless official communication in Hindi,” Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir remarked. He further said that “Effective implementation of the Rajbhasha Policy is essential for ensuring efficient governance in the university.” CUKashmir Registrar, said the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath is keen to reinforce the institution’s commitment to linguistic development, administrative excellence, and national policy alignment and holding such capacity building programmes is one of the components.
Speaking on the occasion, Dean School of Languages (SoL), Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, said, “Language is the soul of cultural expression and administrative coherence. As a School dedicated to linguistic studies, SoL is committed to strengthening Hindi’s presence in academics and administration. This workshop reflects the University’s vision of enhancing technical linguistic skills of the employees,” she remarked.
In his address, former Head Department of Hindi, Guru Nanak Dev University, Prof. Vinod Kumar Taneja highlighted the challenges that arise from inconsistent usage of terminology and the importance of adopting nationally approved vocabulary in governance, academics, and documentation. “Standardization is the backbone of effective official communication. When terminology and expressions are used consistently, it brings clarity, coherence, and professionalism to institutional functioning,” Prof. Taneja remarked. Prof. Kumar later trained the participants on e-tools, Kantasth, Inscript keyboard and machine translation.
In his speech, Finance Officer, Dr. Arif Khan, said, “Hindi, as the Rajbhasha, is not merely a medium of communication but a vital administrative instrument for ensuring uniformity. “Standardization of terminology is essential for professional clarity and institutional coherence,” he said. He further spoke on the importance of linguistic proficiency, administrative terminology, and the cultural role of Hindi in national integration.
Addressing the gathering, Librarian, Dr. Nazir Ahmad Bhat, said, “Libraries are custodians of knowledge, and language plays a key role in organizing, disseminating, and accessing information. Initiatives like this strengthen our commitment to support staff with upgraded linguistic resources,” he noted.
Hindi Adhikari, Dr. Sakina Akhter, who conducted the programme, gave a detailed overview about the role and responsibilities of the Rajbhasha Cell in implementing the Official Language Policy of the Government of India. She said that several employees have already completed Prabodh, Praveen, Pragya, and Parangat, courses designed for central government employees who are not native Hindi speakers and need to gain proficiency in Hindi for official work.
Srinagar, November 19, 2025: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Regional Centre Srinagar today celebrated the 40th Foundation Day of the University at the Auditorium Hall of S.P. College Srinagar. The main Foundation Day function was held at IGNOU Headquarters, New Delhi.
The programme in Srinagar was attended by officials of the Regional Centre, principals and faculty members of leading colleges, coordinators and counsellors of IGNOU study centres, students, and former Regional Directors. Among the dignitaries present were Prof. Bashir Ahmad Sheikh, Principal S.P. College; Prof. Yasmeena Farooq, Principal Women’s College Srinagar; and Prof. Gulam Mohd, Vice Principal A.S. College Srinagar. Shri Saurab Bhagat, IAS, Commissioner Secretary to Government, was the Chief Guest.
In his welcome address Prof. John Mohd, Assistant Coordinator, Study Centre 1209 (S.P. College), highlighted the major achievements of IGNOU and its role in widening access to higher education, particularly in the far flung regions of Kashmir and Ladakh. Coordinators of Study Centres SC-1209 and SC-30039, Prof. Waheed Iqbal and Prof. Mustafa Majid Sheikh, shared their experiences and spoke about rising enrolment, improved support services, and IGNOU’s impact on community learning.
Shri Saurabh Bhagat appreciated the quality of IGNOU study materials and encouraged students especially competitive examination aspirants to rely on them. He lauded the Regional Centre Srinagar for consistently maintaining high enrolment numbers and strengthening distance education in the region.
Speaking on the occasion, Regional Director Dr. A.H. Rizvi reiterated IGNOU’s mission of providing inclusive and accessible education. He acknowledged the contributions of coordinators, counsellors and staff in maintaining strong student support services and urged learners to study IGNOU materials thoroughly and contribute meaningfully to the progress of the nation. Dr. Rizvi thanked the Chief Guest, the principals of participating colleges, and the S.P. College administration for their support in organising the Foundation Day programme.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Abdullah, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries and participants.
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 18: An awareness programme was held under Mission YUVA–Udyam Jagriti 4.0 at the Government College of Education (IASE), M.A. Road, Srinagar, here on Tuesday.
Faculty and students from various city colleges attended the programme, including Women’s College, M.A. Road, Srinagar; Government Sri Pratap College, Srinagar; A.S. College, Srinagar; Government Degree College Bemina and others.
Nodal Principal of Kashmir Division Colleges, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, presided over the function, while Assistant Director Employment, Srinagar, Aaliya Amin, , and Employment Officer, Tanveer Ahmad were the special guests on the occasion.
Dr. Seema Naz addressed the gathering and highlighted that Udyam Jagriti is a flagship awareness campaign under the Mission YUVA initiative in Jammu and Kashmir, aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and skill development among the youth. “Youth Empowerment directly targets young people, encouraging them to become entrepreneurs rather than depend solely on jobs. Economic Growth creates enterprises, it aims to boost local economies and generate substantial employment”, she added.
Assistant Director Employment, Srinagar, gave a detailed overview of Mission YUVA-Udyam Jagriti 4.0. She briefed the participants about the registration process and the Mission YUVA digital platform, explaining that during awareness camps, youth are encouraged to register on the Youth Skill & Entrepreneurship App, a key component of Mission YUVA’s digital infrastructure. The app facilitates matchmaking, training, monitoring, and provides information about various support systems and government schemes.
The Employment Officer also briefed the participants about the campaign, explaining that it informs young people about the Mission YUVA app, various financial schemes, and online skill modules. He emphasized that the primary goal of the initiative is to foster self-reliance and encourage entrepreneurship as a viable career path by promoting a culture of innovation and skill enhancement.
Says strengthening higher education, research & skilling as key to building a knowledge-driven J&K
AWANTIPORA, NOVEMBER 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the 20th Foundation Day celebrations of the Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST), Awantipora, reiterating his Government’s commitment to strengthen the higher education, skilling, and research ecosystem across Jammu and Kashmir to enable youth to lead the region towards a progressive and knowledge-driven future.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister extended warm felicitations to the University for achieving the milestone, praising IUST’s remarkable progress over two decades. “Great things often come from humble beginnings. The growth I see here today—in infrastructure, academic environment and the quality of students—reflects that IUST has evolved into a beacon of learning and innovation,” he said.
Reflecting on the transformation in the education landscape, Omar Abdullah highlighted the significance of the new education policy and its flexibility for students. “The ability to design your own degree and blend practical knowledge with classroom learning is a gift your generation enjoys. In our time, education meant repeating what was in the books, without knowing if it would ever be useful. Today’s system encourages creative and critical thinking,” he observed.
The Chief Minister, who earlier inaugurated the University’s Tech Expo, lauded the students’ ingenuity and problem-solving spirit. “The innovative projects I saw today give me confidence that our future will be brighter than our present. From robotic fruit-picking systems to automatic snow shovels designed for narrow lanes—these ideas address real challenges and demonstrate the evolving mindset of our youth,” he remarked.
Underscoring the importance of research and patents emerging from the University, the Chief Minister noted, “In the field of education, 20 years is infancy. Yet, for a young institution like IUST to have produced over 70 patents speaks volumes about its academic vibrancy and innovative spirit.”
He assured full government support to the University’s ongoing expansion and infrastructure development. “It is our responsibility to ensure that IUST gets all necessary facilities and resources to continue its growth trajectory. Whatever we can do to support this institution, we will,” he pledged.
Referring to the emerging educational hub around Awantipora, Omar Abdullah said, “With AIIMS Awantipora nearing completion, this area will soon become a key centre of learning and healthcare. We must, therefore, continue to nurture IUST’s growth plans.”
The Chief Minister also endorsed the University’s proposals for developing sports infrastructure and affiliation of colleges from South Kashmir. He assured to expedite the land transfer for sports while advocating for sharing the facilities with the local community. “If such facilities are built with public resources, they should benefit the larger community as well,” he said.
On the affiliation of colleges, he remarked, “It’s time to recognize that Kashmir is no longer a single-university region. IUST has matured enough to affiliate colleges in South Kashmir. Sometimes, resistance to change is just human nature—but progress requires us to adapt.”
Reaffirming his personal commitment to the University, Omar Abdullah said, “I assure you of my Government’s continued support and engagement. Every time you invite me, I will be here. Twenty years is a milestone, but I am confident the next twenty will be even more successful for IUST.”
On the occasion, the Chief Minister also inaugurated the Community Radio Station and the Veshav Girls Hostel, released the University’s Annual Report, and witnessed the exchange of six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with reputed institutions and industries. He also felicitated students who brought laurels to Jammu & Kashmir in national-level sports events.
Minister for Agriculture Javid Dar, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs Ghulam Mohiddin Mir, Justice (Retd) Hasnain Masoodi, Rafiq Ahmed Naik, and Waheed Para, Vice Chancellor IUST Prof. Shakeel Romshoo, faculty members, and students were present on the occasion.
‘Emphasis on civic responsibility, patriotism, role of education in Nation building’
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 07: Government College of Education (GCOE) here today organized a district level event to commemorate 150 years of the National Song “Vande Mataram”, celebrating its historical, cultural, and patriotic significance.
Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education, Shantmanu was Chief Guest on the occasion.
Director Colleges, Prof. Sheikh Aijaz Bashir; CEO Srinagar, SDM East, faculty members and large number of students were also present on the occasion.
The programme commenced with the mass singing of “Vande Mataram” led by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, live streamed from the national event. This was followed by flag hoisting ceremony led by Additional Chief Secretary and singing of National Anthem thereby giving a dignified and patriotic start to the event.
After the flag hoisting, the Department of Music, Government College for Women, M.A. Road, Srinagar in collaboration with the cultural committee IASE presented a melodious rendition of “Vande Mataram.” Their performance created a deeply emotional and patriotic atmosphere in the auditorium.
Addressing the gathering, ACS Shantmanu emphasized on the importance of civic responsibility, patriotism, and the role of education in Nation building. He appreciated the efforts of institution in organizing such a meaningful event that connects education with cultural heritage.
Speaking on the occasion, HoD History, Dr. Abdul Rashid Sheikh gave an insightful talk on the history and significance of “Vande Mataram.” He traced its origin from Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s novel Anandamath (published in 1882), its role in the Indian freedom struggle, and its enduring relevance as a symbol of unity and patriotism.
In her welcome address, Principal, Dr. Seema Naz highlighted the role of the institution for fostering unity, integrity, and spirit of patriotism among the teachers.
The Cultural Committee organized a patriotic song performance by Puran Bakshi and Muneer Shah (B. Ed 2nd Semester), showcasing India’s rich musical and cultural traditions. The songs resonated with the spirit of patriotism and collective pride.
The gathering also witnessed the live broadcast of the Honourable Prime Minister’s national address, as part of the nationwide commemoration programme. The Prime Minister’s message focused on national unity, cultural pride, and the values embodied in “Vande Mataram.” The address rekindled a sense of national pride and unity among the audience.
The formal proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Prof. Syed Shabana, Head of the Department of Hindi. She expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, guests, faculty members, and students for their participation and cooperation in making the event a success. The event was moderated by Prof. Lateef Ahmad Shah and the proceedings were documented by Prof. Shawana Manzoor.
Director leads comprehensive monitoring in Srinagar
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 3: The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ensuring the smooth, fair, and student-friendly conduct of the ongoing examinations across the Kashmir Division.
In a proactive move to uphold transparency and excellence, Director School Education Kashmir, Naseer Ahmad Wani, today personally led a comprehensive monitoring exercise in Srinagar.
He was accompanied by Chief Accounts Officer, Syed Mubashirah, and Chief Education Officer Srinagar, Gh. Mohi-ud-din Bhat.
The Director visited several key examination centres including GHSS Kothibagh, Presentation Convent Higher Secondary School Rajbagh, High School Natipora, and High School Hyderpora, where he interacted with students and staff, reviewed arrangements on the ground, and extended his best wishes for a smooth and stress-free examination experience.
Speaking on the occasion, the Director said, “We are here to assure our students that the administration is fully dedicated to their success. Our top priority is to maintain a fair, transparent, and supportive environment. I appeal to all concerned staff to ensure a smooth and stress-free examination in every nook and corner of the Kashmir Division.”
Meanwhile, under the supervision of DSEK, multiple teams from the Directorate fanned out across all districts of the Kashmir Division to maintain strict vigilance and uphold uniform standards of conduct. Joint Directors visited several examination centres, including those in remote and far-flung areas of Kupwara and Anantnag districts, ensuring consistency and adherence to established protocols.
Additionally, Personnel Officer DSEK, Dr. Iqbal Hussain Mir, conducted a detailed review of arrangements across various centres in District Budgam, expressing satisfaction over the effective and disciplined conduct of the examinations.
The Directorate remains resolutely committed to maintaining transparency, discipline, and a student-centric atmosphere throughout the examination processes, ensuring that every student is provided a fair opportunity to perform to the best of their abilities.
SRINAGAR, September 26, 2025 : Professor (Dr.) Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges, Department of Higher Education, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, has announced the opening of admissions to Four-Year Undergraduate Programs (FYUGP) for the Academic Session 2025-2026 for 10+2 Biannual pass-out students. Admissions will be open across all Government Degree Colleges in Jammu & Kashmir starting from September 29, 2025.
Eligible candidates can register and apply online through the Samarth Portal at https://jkadmissions.samarth.ac.in. Students are advised to consult the Admission Counselling Centers of their preferred colleges to seek guidance and complete the admission process for the program of their choice.
Regular candidates who could not secure admission in earlier rounds are also eligible to apply during this period.
For detailed guidelines and eligibility criteria, candidates are advised to read the official notification available on the Samarth Portal.
Srinagar: In a moment of great pride for SP College Srinagar and the academic community of Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Waheed Ahmad Khanday, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, has been recognized among the worlds top 2% scientists by Stanford University, USA, for the year 2025.
Dr. Khanday has made significant contributions in the field of Chemical Engineering, with a particular focus on waste management, environmental safety, and water treatment technologies. His impactful research has earned him wide recognition at the international level. Over the course of his career, he has published more than 55 research articles in reputed journals, which have collectively received around 4000 citations, reflecting the global relevance and quality of his work.
Reacting to the achievement, the Principal of SP College Srinagar congratulated Dr. Khanday, stating:
It is a matter of immense pride for SP College that one of our own faculty members has been placed in Stanford University’s list of the worlds top 2% scientists. This recognition not only highlights Dr. Waheeds dedication and scholarly excellence but also underscores the potential of academic talent within college setups. His achievement will serve as an inspiration for faculty and students alike. On behalf of the college fraternity, I extend my heartiest congratulations to Dr. Waheed and wish him greater success in the years to come.
The recognition of Dr. Khandays work at such a prestigious global platform is being hailed as a remarkable feat, especially for a college-based scientist. It highlights the strong research culture being nurtured at SP College Srinagar and opens new horizons for collaborative research in environmental and chemical sciences.
Srinagar, September 4: The Directorate of Higher Education Government of Jammu and Kashmir has announced the suspension of class work in all Government Degree Colleges and Government College(s) of Engineering and Technology (GCETs) across the Union Territory.
According to Order No. 92-DC (HE) of 2025, dated 04-09-2025, the direction has been taken in view of the prevailing adverse weather conditions, as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of students.
Class work in these institutions will remain suspended till 06th September 2025 (Saturday). Regular academic activities are scheduled to resume from 08th September 2025 (Monday).
The order has been issued by Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges, Higher Education Department, J&K.
Students have been advised to stay updated through official college communication channels and remain indoors, prioritizing their safety during this period of inclement weather.
