SRINAGAR: Reaffirming her commitment to student welfare and participatory governance, Vice Chancellor University of Kashmir (KU), Prof. Nilofer Khan chaired a comprehensive meeting of the University Students Council today—her first major student engagement immediately after formally resuming office as VC for a second consecutive term of two years.
Held at the Gandhi Bhawan auditorium, the meeting brought together class representatives (CRs) from all teaching departments across the University’s campuses. It was aimed at ensuring direct engagement with student leaders and amplifying their voices in the overall functioning of the institution.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Nilofer Khan reiterated that student welfare remains her topmost priority and emphasized her vision of an inclusive, student-centric academic environment.
“This meeting is a testament to the University’s commitment to inclusive decision-making. The role of student representatives is critical in fostering a culture of open communication and mutual trust,” she said.
The Vice Chancellor patiently listened to the issues raised by the student representatives and assured timely redressal of all genuine concerns. She urged the Department of Students Welfare (DSW) KU to institutionalize such meetings every three months so that the administration remains closely connected with the evolving needs and expectations of students.
The discussions during the meeting spanned several key areas including campus cleanliness and green initiatives, proper parking management within designated parking slots, addressing the issue of dog menace, making the campus more eco-friendly, incentivizing outstanding performers in extracurricular activities, and revitalizing the historic Naseem Bagh as the ‘Chinar Campus.’
Dean Students Welfare, KU Prof. Parvez Ahmed, earlier outlined the objectives of the Student Council and highlighted the various initiatives taken by the DSW for student welfare. He underscored the importance of providing a structured platform for students to engage with the administration constructively.
The meeting was also attended by Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Controller of Examinations Dr. Majid Zaman Baba, Provost Girls hostels Prof. Zahida Jabeen, Chief Proctor Prof. Imtiaz Khan, Provost Boys hostels Prof. MD Mehraj Ahmad, along with several other key university officials. The officers responded to queries and concerns related to their respective domains, assuring students of proactive follow-up.
On the occasion student representatives welcomed the initiative and lauded the administration’s openness in providing a platform for them to voice their opinions and seek prompt resolutions to their issues.
The event was coordinated by Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer, DSW KU.