Foundation programme 'Deeksharambh' commences at SKUAST-K

Srinagar, Apr 25: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) launched its two-week foundation programme "Deeksharambh" today with the theme "Unleash Your Talent: Discover a World Beyond Academics." The programme aims to help first-year students understand the university ecosystem while developing them into responsible citizens.

The inaugural event was presided over by Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, as Chief Guest, with Prof. Neelofer Khan, Vice Chancellor of University of Kashmir, attending as Guest of Honour.

Prof SA Gangoo, Dean Students Welfare, welcomed the guests and participants. In his address, he highlighted that SKUAST-K was the first agricultural university at the national level to conceptualise and organise such a programme for undergraduate students. "The popularity of our IRTIQA programme created a ripple effect, prompting UGC to institutionalise the Deeksharambh programme as part of the course curriculum nationwide," Prof. Gangoo noted.

Guest of Honour Prof. Neelofer Khan congratulated the organisers for their efforts in making the foundation programme a reality. She emphasised that "this programme can help the student community establish bonds with faculty from other stations and work toward solving issues using a multidisciplinary approach."

In his address, Prof Ganai motivated participants by highlighting the importance of co-curricular activities in an individual's overall development. "SKUAST-K has developed a sustainable model to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among our students," he said. "We have extended our mandate beyond traditional education to focus on making students entrepreneurs and agripreneurs."

The Vice Chancellor also paid respects to the victims of the recent Pahalgam incident and condemned the attack. The entire gathering observed two minutes of silence as a mark of respect in solidarity with those affected.

The programme began with a march-past parade by students from different faculties, demonstrating the discipline that forms part of the university ethos. The dignitaries also inaugurated an e-cycle initiative at the SKUAST-Kashmir Shalimar campus.

Students presented a cultural programme highlighting the importance of unity and diversity in addressing societal challenges. The performances were specially prepared to express solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam incident.

The function was attended by Directors, the Registrar, Deans, Associate Deans, Student Welfare Officers, Heads of Departments, staff members, and students of SKUAST-K.

Director Education, Prof. Mohd. Altaf Bhat, presented the formal vote of thanks, emphasizing that the event would benefit the student community in numerous ways.