PULWAMA — The three-day J&K Science Congress 2026 on “Science, Innovations and Emerging Technologies for Sustainable and Viksit J&K” concluded at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) on Thursday, with participation from scientists, researchers, academicians, innovators, students and experts.
The valedictory session was held at the Nund Reshi Auditorium of IUST, where Minister of School and Higher Education Sakina Itoo stressed the importance of knowledge creation and empowering young people in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir.
“The future of Jammu and Kashmir will not be defined merely by infrastructure but by the knowledge created and the young minds empowered,” Itoo said while addressing the gathering as chief guest.
She also emphasised the need to prepare young people not only to seek employment but to become “creators of employment”.
“While talent is everywhere, opportunity must also be made available everywhere,” she said.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, who attended the session as guest of honour, appreciated IUST and the Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKSTIC) for providing a platform for scientists, researchers and students.
IUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo said the Science Congress had brought together scientists, researchers and students to deliberate on issues including climate change, disaster vulnerability, sustainability and emerging technologies.
“The enthusiasm of young students, scientists and researchers gives us immense hope for a sustainable and Viksit J&K driven by Science and innovation,” Romshoo said.
He said the Congress had served as a confluence of ideas, innovation and responsibility, highlighting discussions ranging from climate challenges in the Upper Indus Basin to the creativity displayed by school students.
“Our vision for a Viksit J&K can only be realised when we empower our youth to think scientifically and act for a sustainable future,” he said.
Dean Research, IUST, Dr Aabid Hussain Shalla presented a report on the Congress, stating that about 700 researchers and 4,000 participants took part in 26 technical sessions covering 14 themes, besides five plenary sessions and two panel discussions.
The best oral and poster presenters were felicitated by the dignitaries during the valedictory programme.
Dean Academic Affairs IUST Prof. Ajaz Bashir delivered the welcome address, while Dean Outreach IUST Dr Ruheela Hassan proposed the vote of thanks.
Earlier, the day featured the fifth plenary lecture delivered by Romshoo on “Climate Change, Cryosphere Depletion and Emerging Glacial Hazards in the Upper Indus Basin: Implications for Water Security and Infrastructure”. The session was chaired by Prof. Vinod Kumar Gaur, former Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences.
The Congress also featured a dedicated School Students’ Science Programme conducted in collaboration with the National Children’s Science Congress. Students from 20 schools took part, with more than 80 participants presenting posters, models and projects.
