Srinagar, July 23 (JKNS): Government College for Women, M.A. Road, Srinagar, on Wednesday hosted a one-day Student Conference organized by the Debating and Seminar Committee under the theme “Here and Beyond”.
Details available with news agency JKNS stated that the event brought together students from across Kashmir to debate pressing contemporary issues, including drug abuse, social media addiction, and climate change.
Renowned educationist Prof. Neerja Matoo and Sahitya Akademi Award-winning poet Prof. Naseem Shafaie were among the jury members for the event. They expressed pride in their long-standing association with the institution and lauded its role in advancing women’s education in the Valley.
“In 1950, this college opened its doors and liberated Kashmiri women from despondency, illiteracy, hopelessness, and darkness to see the whole world and its possibilities. And as a result, Kashmiri women were truly emancipated, truly liberated, and they actually got ‘azadi’ in 1950. I have had the good fortune of doing my little bit in this college,” Prof. Neerja said, recalling her time as a student and later as a faculty member for over three decades.
She further praised the college’s drama club, remarking: “It’s such a wonderful thing for me to come to an institution which is flowering once again, which had seemed to be hit by dark times for some time, but today it’s a revelation to see how free the atmosphere here is, and how openly young men and women are acting together. We used to take pride in our theater in this college. We had this great tradition, and today I was very happy to see it still alive.”
Prof. Naseem Shafaie recited verses from one of her acclaimed poems, expressing her deep sense of attachment to the college and appreciation for the students’ cultural performances.
Principal Prof. (Dr.) Yasmeen Farooq welcomed the participants, noting that the institution is celebrating 75 years of academic excellence. “Beyond academics, we encourage our students to explore their passions and talents through various extracurricular activities. Our vibrant campus is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and perspectives, providing a unique and enriching experience,” she said, appreciating the Debating and Seminar Committee led by Dr. Abina Habib for organizing the event.
The conference began with a traditional Kashmiri ‘izband’ ceremony, followed by the playing of the college tarana and a promotional video made by the journalism department. Cultural performances, including the traditional Kashmiri Rouf dance, and a skit by the drama club drew thunderous applause from the audience.
Certificates were awarded to the winners and participants of the debate competition, while the students involved in organizing the event were also felicitated. Other jury members included Prof. Rubeena Khateeb, Dr. Tanveer Habib, and Dr. Suhail Ahmad. (JKNS)
