CAMPUS ROUNDUP: Kashmir’s campuses buzz with astronomy, cultural, academic initiatives

Educational institutions across Kashmir were abuzz last week as schools and colleges hosted a mix of academic, cultural, and community-building activities, highlighting innovation, learning, and unity.

Govt HSS Khonmoh Hosts Night Sky Watching Camp

Higher Secondary School Khanmoh organised a night sky watching camp last Saturday, offering students and educators a unique opportunity to explore astronomy. Coordinated under the supervision of Principal M. Mustafa Bhat and supported by the Jammu & Kashmir Science Communicators Network (JKSCN), the event drew students from the entire BHSS Khonmoh Cluster.

Director General School Education Kashmir, Dr. G. N. Itoo, attended the event alongside other dignitaries. Resource person Khursheed Ahmad Rather delivered an enlightening session on astronomy, while Muneer Ahmad Wani demonstrated the Stellarium software for virtual astronomy. A special meteorite collection display by Anees-ul-Islam and a captivating LASER show were among the highlights, giving students the rare opportunity to observe planets through telescopes.

Amar Singh College Hosts HED’s 2-Day Conclave on NEP-2020

Amar Singh College Srinagar hosted a two-day conclave on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, organised by the J&K Higher Education Department. The event aimed to discuss opportunities, challenges, and strategies for implementing NEP-2020 effectively.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was the chief guest at the inaugural session, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah graced the valedictory function, accompanied by Education Minister Sakina Itoo. During the conclave, college principals and university vice-chancellors engaged in discussions on policy implementation, and the Chief Minister highlighted the Design Your Degree (DYD) initiative as a game-changer, focusing on skill development and experiential learning rather than rote memorisation.

DIS Singhpora Celebrates Diwali with Diverse Communities

In a bid to strengthen communal harmony, Doon International School (DIS) Singhpora hosted people from Hindu and Sikh communities for Diwali celebrations. The initiative, led by Chairman Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, Vice-Chairman Raaj Bhat, and Director Aijaz Ahmad Bhat, aimed to transform the festival of lights into a symbol of unity and social cohesion.

NIT Srinagar Hosts Annual Cultural Festival Rang-e-Chinar 2.0

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar hosted its annual two-day cultural festival, Rang-e-Chinar 2.0, under the theme “Roots and Rhythms.” The event attracted over 8,000 participants, including students, faculty, alumni, and visitors, and featured more than 40 competitions and activities ranging from traditional arts like Henna Art, Silambam, and Clay Art to contemporary performances including singing, dancing, poetry, and rap battles.

Director Prof. Binod Kumar Kanujia lauded the event as a celebration of the institute’s diversity, creativity, and vibrant student energy.