“Historic institution that has nurtured legends and continues its legacy”: ACS Shantmanu
College began in 1950 with handful visionaries, today stands as beacon of women’s education in Kashmir”: Principal Prof. (Dr.) Yasmeen Farooq
Srinagar, Oct 15 (JKNS): Government College for Women, Moulana Azad Road Srinagar, on Wednesday celebrated its 75th anniversary with a grand event showcasing the institution’s historic journey and contributions to women’s education in Kashmir.
The function witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries, alumni, faculty, and students.
As per news agency JKNS, Minister for Higher Education, Ms. Sakina Masood Itoo, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, lauded the college for shaping generations of women scholars. “I feel that this college has contributed the most in Kashmir at this time,” she said. Highlighting the central role of education in progress, the Minister remarked, “If a country, a place, or a state has to improve, the most important priority is always the education sector.” She also emphasized the government’s focus on recruitment of new teachers and functionalizing several colleges in the last year.
Guest of Honor, Additional Chief Secretary (Higher Education Department), Shri Shantmanu, congratulated the institution on its platinum milestone. “One of the things this college is renowned for is that it has always hosted important personalities, and the good thing is that this tradition has continued over the years,” he said. Recalling the contribution of legendary professors and principals, he added, “Today is a day of celebration, and I once again congratulate all who have been associated with this historic institution.”
Director Colleges, Prof. (Dr.) Sheikh Aijaz Bashir, and Dean Academic Affairs of Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Simnani, also addressed the gathering. Prof. Bashir said the college had the potential to emerge as a full-fledged university and pledged departmental support. Prof. Simnani, recalling his tenure, noted that the college has always been defined by its “impressive work culture and academic vibrance.”
The event featured the release of coffee-table books, newsletters, and publications authored by alumni and faculty. Principal Prof. (Dr.) Yasmeen Farooq, in her address, reflected on the college’s journey since its establishment in 1950 in the historic Dogra-era palace. “The education you receive here is not confined to books and classrooms. It is a preparation for service, leadership, and character,” she said, adding that the college was aligning itself with the National Education Policy 2020 by nurturing innovation and interdisciplinarity while staying rooted in cultural values.
The celebration also witnessed alumni storytelling sessions by eminent personalities, including Prof. Neerja Mattoo, Prof. Naseem Shafaie, and Ms. Nancy Dhar, followed by vibrant cultural performances by students. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Prof. Rajou K. Pandita. (JKNS)
