Principal Secretary Alok Kumar commends IUST for skill development efforts

PULWAMA — Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) Awantipora on Thursday rolled out the implementation of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY 4.0) and inaugurated Kalam Academy of Skill Development and Training.

On this occasion, Alok Kumar (IRS), who was the chief guest, congratulated the IUST for its efforts towards the implementation of the skilling mission through the government’s flagship programme.

Mr Alok Kumar said that the programme aims to bridge the skill gaps and guarantee the employability of the youth and contribute to the country’s march towards progress and prosperity. He further said that nothing is more empowering than acquiring skills which open up opportunities.

In his address, Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo expressed thanks to the government for lending support to IUST in its initiatives. He said that in this age of innovation and entrepreneurship, where rapid technological advances create skill gaps, initiatives like PMKVY are significant.

Mr Shakil Romshoo outlined different measures being taken in the IUST at its Centre of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development, Design and Innovation Centre and cited the accomplishments made towards supporting the start-up ecosystem and inculcating innovative spirit among the youth.

He also spoke about National Education Policy 2020 implementation and said that emphasis at IUST is being laid on multidisciplinary learning, inculcation of innovative spirit, the introduction of vocational courses in different areas of contemporary relevance etc.

Later, the chief guest took a tour of the different facilities of the campus and appreciated the growth of the university. He visited CIED, departments of Food Sciences and Technology and Computer Science and Engineering and inaugurated the skill development programmes.

The Principal Secretary of the Higher Education Department appreciated IUST on its achievements and congratulated the Vice-chancellor and Director CIED for a 3.5-star ranking awarded by the Institution’s Innovation Council of the Ministry of Education, GoI, in recognition of the efforts towards the promotion of entrepreneurship, innovation and start-up culture.

It is in place to mention here that the programme was coordinated by the Dean of Research, Prof Ayaz Hassan Moon and attended by the Dean of Academic Affairs, Registrar, Finance Officer, Deans of Schools, and others.