Category: EDUCATION

Achieves 34th rank in university category; maintains top-50 position for third consecutive year

Srinagar, Sept 04: Riding the momentum of its NAAC A++ triumph in May this year, the University of Kashmir (KU) has marked another milestone in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 released by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. The University has secured 34th rank (57.13 points) in the University Category, a jump from its 45th position (54.43 points) in 2024.

In the Overall Category, KU now stands at 59th rank (54.31 points), compared to 69th rank (52.14 points) last year. It has also achieved an impressive 8th place among all State Public Universities (SPUs) across India, cementing its standing as a top-10 institution in this category. Notably, KU remains the only University from Jammu & Kashmir to feature among the nation’s top-50 universities in the University Category.

This year’s success is powered by stronger performance in Research and Professional Practices (RP), where its score rose to 34.74 from 31.25 in 2024. Within RP, the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR – patents) sub-parameter registered remarkable growth, climbing to 1.25 in 2025 compared to 0.50 in 2024, highlighting the University’s growing emphasis on innovation, patent filings, and technology-driven research. The Teaching, Learning and Resources (TLR) parameter also recorded progress, with KU scoring 74.05 points, up from 71.14 last year. These gains collectively show KU’s strengthened focus on high-quality research, innovation, and digital learning initiatives.

Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, extended her gratitude to the varsity’s leadership and congratulated the entire KU community on this impressive success.

“Climbing the NIRF tables is a proud moment for all of us. It reflects our collective resolve to raise academic standards, deepen research, and deliver student-centric outcomes. I express my gratitude to our Chancellor, Shri Manoj Sinha; Pro-Chancellor, Mr. Omar Abdullah; Minister for Higher Education J&K, Ms. Sakina Itoo; and Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department, J&K Shri Shantmanu (IAS) for their constant guidance and support. I also warmly congratulate our faculty, scholars, students and non- teaching staff whose dedication and hard work have made this milestone possible,” she said.

Prof. Khan also lauded Director DIQA KU, Prof. Manzoor Shah and his entire team for the efforts and professional coordination of the entire ranking exercise.

Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, said that KU’s upward trajectory reflects a robust academic ecosystem driven by committed faculty, active student engagement, and the integration of research and digital resources across programmes.

Dean Research KU, Prof. Mohammad Sultan Bhat, noted that KU’s growing national visibility stems from steady gains in publications, patents and technology-led research, positioning the University to expand its impact on society and industry.

Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, said that the improved ranking is the outcome of institutional synergy, with faculty, students, researchers and the administration working in tandem towards clearly defined goals.

Notably in May 2025, KU earned the prestigious NAAC A++ grade with the highest CGPA score in its history, becoming the first higher education institution in J&K to be assessed under NAAC’s revised, more rigorous framework. With a third consecutive year in India’s top-50, KU has consolidated its standing as a leading centre of higher learning, research and innovation.

Srinagar, June 18: In a welcome move set to improve the process of engagement of faculty on academic arrangement Directorate of Higher Education has launched a common portal for inviting online applications for the engagement of Lecturers, Teaching Assistants, Physical Training Instructors (PTIs), and Librarians on a need-based Academic Arrangement basis in Government Degree Colleges for the Academic Session 2025–26. The process of engagement will be done for colleges of Kashmir and Jammu Division by Nodal Principals of respective divisions in a time bound manner.

This initiative will facilitate single window system for submission of online applications to ensure uniform timelines and uninterrupted academic activity across the colleges in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions.

The online application portal — https://jkaa.directorcollegesjk.in — will open on June 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM and will remain accessible until July 10, 2025, at 5:00 PM.

Aspiring candidates may apply for positions in Jammu Division, Kashmir Division, or both, depending on their eligibility and preference. Importantly, the Department has clarified that only online submissions will be accepted; physical or offline applications will not be entertained under any circumstances.

Applicants are strongly advised to go through the Detailed Advertisement Notice, Terms and Conditions, and the Application Manual available on the official portal before proceeding with their applications.

This engagement of faculty on academic arrangement provides a vital opportunity for qualified and passionate educators to contribute meaningfully to the higher education landscape of Jammu & Kashmir while fulfilling the critical academic needs of its degree colleges and gaining teaching experience as well.

For updates and detailed instructions, visit the official portal: https://jkaa.directorcollegesjk.in.

Ganderbal, June 17: Hon’ble Member of Parliament (MP), representing Srinagar Lok Sabha Constituency, Mr. Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi Tuesday visited the Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) and interacted with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath and other key functionaries. Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool and Registrar, Prof. M Afzal Zargar were also present.

Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath welcomed Mr. Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi and briefed him about the ongoing academic, research and administrative activities of the University, and the roadmap envisioned for the future.

In his detailed presentation, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath highlighted the academic and research initiatives taken by the University, the infrastructural growth and the greater vision of transforming CUKashmir into a premier institution of higher learning.

CUKashmir Vice-Chancellor, informed the Hon’ble Parliament Member, that the varsity holds a pivotal place in shaping the educational landscape of the Valley. “CUKashmir is providing inclusive, and globally competitive education to the students from across the country,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath told the visiting MP. The VC explained the detailed academic and infrastructural initiatives of the university aimed at creating a vibrant ecosystem for education and employment of the youth.

Mr. Syed Aga Ruhullah, while interacting with the Vice-Chancellor, expressed satisfaction over the academic and administrative progress of the institution. He appreciated the efforts of the university for an intellectual educational ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.

He assured his full support in facilitating necessary assistance from relevant quarters. Mr. Syed Aga Ruhullah stated that he would personally take up the university’s matters with the Ministry of Education and other concerned departments at the central and UT level to ensure that the institution receives the attention and resources it rightfully deserves.

Dean Academic Affairs and the Registrar thanked the Hon’ble Member for his visit and the interest he has shown in growth and development of the University.

Srinagar, June 12: In the wake of introducing an innovative Design Your Degree Program (DYD) in the Cluster University Srinagar the honorable Vice Chancellor Cluster University Srinagar Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Mobin, Controller of Examinations, Prof. Khursheed Ahmad Mir & Dean Academics, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz interacted with the first batch of students registered for the innovative DYD program in the cluster university Srinagar. The program will be conducted from Amar Singh College & Govt. College of Education (IASE), the two constituent colleges of Cluster University Srinagar. In order to run the DYD program in its letter & spirit, it necessitates broader & deeper collaborations between the constituent colleges of Cluster University Srinagar including other lead institutions in the UT & outside. Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Mobin, the honourable Vice Chancellor while alleviating the concerns about the DYD program, assured the students full support from the University in order to meet the needs & demands of this course. “The program is in line with & represents the real spirit of NEP-2020 in its curricular, pedagogic & assessment domains”, the Vice Chancellor said. “It is no wonder”, the VC added, “that the students registering for this program too must have the required attitude for immersing themselves wholeheartedly in this program”. Prof. Khursheed Mir, Controller of Examinations congratulated the students for joining the first of its kind innovative DYD program offered by Cluster University Srinagar. He said that the program will surely prove to be the game changer in the lives of students because the program is very much attuned to the needs of the present times. “This program is unconventional, in itself a disruptive program in the array of conventional programs offered by universities around the world”, he said. “In short, it’s doing away with a dead theory classrooms & bringing in a real life curriculum into the university ecosystem,” he concluded. Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz while highlighting the key features of the program said, “The program curriculum is curated & devised in such a fashion that it would trigger the critical & creative capacities of learners”. “This program,” she added, “will also test our institutional capabilities, since its ‘out of the box’ courses like critical thinking, disruptive technologies, digital humanities & problem solving in everyday life are knit with the day to day activities of life. The real life problems, she continued, “while being brought to the classroom will invoke & incite diverse potentialities & capabilities in learners towards a focused & functional knowledge construction under the guidance of the mentors from diverse backgrounds.” The official source from the Cluster University informed the press that 30 students have already registered for the program & as soon as the admission formalities are completed the program will begin in the designated constituent colleges of the Cluster University as per the specified date. Both the constituent colleges have been ramping up their efforts in order to provide deeper & wider experiences to the students of the program. “Collaborations & partnerships have been cemented & strengthened with multiple institutions besides undertaking of capacity building of mentors nominated for the program,” the official said.

SRINAGAR, APRIL 11: The Higher Education Department today convened a high level meeting in the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar, under the chairmanship of Shantmanu, Additional Chief Secretary, Education.

The meeting was attended by Director Colleges, Higher Education Department, Deans of Academic Affairs and Registrars from the University of Kashmir, University of Jammu, Cluster University Jammu and Cluster University Srinagar besides Principals of autonomous colleges, Government College for Women, Parade Jammu, GDC Baramulla and Islamia College of Science and Commerce, Srinagar.

The deliberations centered on critical issues pertaining to undergraduate admissions for the upcoming 2025-26 academic year and crucial progression of students to the 4th year under the transformative National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 besides other NEP related initiatives.

The meeting took several decisions aimed to smoothen the admission process for upcoming UG 2025-26 admissions. It was decided that the Universities across the Union Territory will formulate and implement statutory provisions by the end of this month, facilitating lateral entry for eligible polytechnic students into the 2nd year (3rd semester) of Four Year Undergraduate Program of Degree Colleges.

It was decided that admissions would continue to be granted through both CUET and non-CUET modes, aligning with established practices. However, timelines will be thoroughly reviewed and optimized to ensure greater student convenience and accessibility. In order to optimize the process, Director Colleges will coordinate and oversee the admission process, working in close liaison with the universities to ensure strict adherence to stipulated timelines.

All the universities are mandated to establish statutory mechanisms and guidelines as provisioned under NEP 2020 for multiple exit options at the end of the 1st and 2nd year, providing students with greater portability. Besides, the Universities shall come up with an implementation plan in terms of requirement of additional credits for award of Certificate or Diploma.

It was further decided that the Director Colleges, Higher Education Department, will undertake a reclassification of colleges based on admission grant criteria on CUET or NON -CUET, pre informing students and institutions, so that aspirants seek admissions without any ambiguity.

The ACS asked for ensuring that the admission process is completed well within the time to ensure adherence to the academic calendar. He said that the admissions should be centralized at the directorate level, instructing the Director Colleges to start the process of developing a robust centralized admission system.

The meeting also took decisions regarding progression of students to 4th Year of NEP in Honours and Research Mode and finalisation of the statuary provisions by the Universities for admission to 4th year under the Honours and Honours with Research programs. The exercise is to be completed by the month end to ensure smooth transition to 4th Year for enrolled students.

It was decided that the transition to the 4th year will be implemented in a phased and calibrated manner. The students will be duly informed about the modalities of transfer from various degree colleges to facilitate their pursuit of quality research and Honors programs. It was clarified that 4th Year programs will be offered at selected institutions, necessitating the student mobility across institutions.

The ACS instructed the Universities to finalise statutory provisions without delay to facilitate the identification and offering of courses through the SWAYAM platform, thereby enhancing credit transferability and providing students with greater academic flexibility. An Action Taken Report, in this regard, will be submitted by the HEIs to the Higher Education Department by the month end, he added.

He affirmed the department’s commitment towards coordinating with the National Testing Agency (NTA) at the highest level, to ensure that CUET examination is conducted with an increased number of centers within the UT with enhanced facilities.

Shantmanu reiterated that the Higher Education Department is committed towards taking all necessary steps to facilitate the smooth and effective implementation of NEP 2020 and to continuously improve the quality of higher education in Jammu and Kashmir. He appreciated the role of Universities in implementation of NEP for the undergraduate students.

Srinagar, March 19: The Govt. College of Education (IASE), M.A. Road, Srinagar launched a ground breaking two-day International Conference titled ‘Voices for Change: Addressing and Preventing Crimes Against Women’ today in collaboration with the Asha Paras for Peace and Harmony Foundation (APPHF) India and Soroptimist International, Srinagar Kashmir.

With the aim to address the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls, the conference brings together experts, policymakers and advocates to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in preventing and responding to the violence against women.

The objectives include raising awareness of crimes against women, discussing strategies for prevention and intervention, fostering collaboration between policymakers, academics, activists, and community leaders and amplifying women’s voices and advocating for systemic change

The inaugural session commenced with the felicitation of the esteemed dignitaries and welcome address by Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, Principal of the host college and the Nodal Principal of Kashmir Division Colleges.

She emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing crimes against women and acknowledged the support of collaborating institutions.

This was followed by the official release of Smart Digest of the Conference by Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Mobin, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar, and Prof. (Dr.) Sheikh Aijaz Bashir, Director of Colleges, UT of J&K.

The experts including Dr. Tawheeda Rasool, Coordinator of the Women’s Studies Centre; Prof. Asha Shukla, Former Vice-Chancellor of BRAUSS and Managing Director of APPHF India; Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Mobin, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar; Prof. (Dr.) Sheikh Aijaz, Director of Colleges, UT of J&K and Ruth Healey, President of Soroptimist International Great Britain and Ireland (SIGBI); Prof Gurmeet Kaur, Former, Head Department of Languages, GCOE, Srinagar; Prof. (Dr.) Parveen Pandith, President of Soroptimist International Srinagar; Erinda Shah, Founder of Mental Health First Aid India Pvt. Ltd; Bisma Qazi , SP Srinagar East Zone, and Syed Sleet Shah, Dy. SP Hqrs Srinagar also spoke on the occasion.

The experts provided an overview of the conference’s objectives, highlighted the significance of strengthening institutional responses to gender-based crimes, promoting gender equity and preventing violence against women, human trafficking & false marriages.

Experts from law enforcement elaborated on the role of law enforcement in protecting women’s rights and ensuring justice. They also deliberated upon the new criminal laws like BNS 2023 (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita).

The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Irfat Ara Khan, Head Department of Psychology, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, attendees, and organizers for their contributions to the conference.

Meanwhile, the Wall of Gender Equality curated by Arshid Sualeh, Art Teacher was also inaugurated on the occasion.

The session was moderated by Dr Shaheena Rasool (Coordinator, Teacher Education), and the proceedings were documented by Dr. Shabina, Head Dept. of English and Shawana Manzoor, Head, Dept. of EVS.

Awantipora, Feb. 28: A special interaction program was held at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Shri Shantmanu (IAS), Financial Commissioner (Addl. Chief Secretary) Higher Education Department, UT of Jammu and Kashmir, as the Chief Guest. Prof. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director, UT of Jammu and Kashmir, was also present.

The program was attended by university officials, including Registrar, Dean Academic Affairs, Dean Research, Finance Officer, Controller of Examinations, all Deans of Schools, Dean of Students, Dean Outreach, Director CIED, Director IT&SS, Director DIQA, and various Heads of Departments. The delegates toured IUST’s state-of-the-art labs and facilities, gaining first-hand insight into the infrastructure supporting the university’s academic and research endeavours.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Shantmanu emphasized the need for education that not only prepares students for the future but also fosters a sense of giving back to society. He expressed satisfaction with IUST’s remarkable progress and assured his continued support for the university’s future growth and initiatives.

Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, highlighted the university’s research and academic achievements. He elaborated on the institution’s pioneering initiatives aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on skill enhancement programs, innovation, entrepreneurship, and multidisciplinary education. He also introduced the ‘One University One Data’ initiative aimed at enhancing data management and institutional efficiency. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Asifa Baba, Dean of Students. The session was skilfully moderated by Dr. Farhana Alia.

Sopore, Feb 21: Director Colleges, J&K, Prof (Dr) Shiekh Ajaz Bashir visited Govt. Degree College, Hadipora and Govt. Degree College Dangiwach to review the overall functioning of these colleges and to take stock of ongoing works.

He was accompanied by Assistant Director Planning, Higher Education, Mr. Javaid Ahmad Dar and various officials from department of R&B, Housing Board, Revenue, SICOP and Irrigation & Flood Control.

At GDC Dangiwacha, Director Colleges took note of delay in construction of main academic block of the college which has been sanctioned at a cost of Rs. 19.00 crores. Director Colleges asked the principal to expedite the acquisition of approach road so that construction work can been taken upon.

Further he asked Principal Prof. Imtiaz Ahmad to put the prefabricated huts constructed at the college site for immediate use by shifting the college there without any further delay.

Director Colleges interacted with Civil Society Dangiwacha and requested them to support the Principal in operationalizing the college at its own premises.

While taking a stock of developmental works at Govt. Degree College Hadipora he asked the construction agency Housing board to expedite the work of going projects and look into the issues raised by Principal of the college Prof. Shamim Ahmad Dar so that the funds are utilized on times.

Principal, Prof. Shamim Ahmad Dar highlighted the limited allotment of only eight social Science and Humanities subjects to Govt. Degree College Hadipora and also drew the attention towards non-teaching staff allocation to the college.

Director colleges, Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir assured that the problems will be resolved on priority and introduction of new subjects together with filling of non-teaching vacancies will be taken up at the earliest. The visit ended with interaction with faculty who were encouraged to work in a mission mode for development of college.