Srinagar, September 9(JKNS): 2026: Two women educationists from the remote border region of Karnah have brought pride to the area after being honoured with the prestigious Educational Leadership Award at Women Edupreneurs Connect 2026, organised by the Private Schools’ Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) at the EMRC Auditorium, University of Kashmir.
The recognition celebrated the contribution of women entrepreneurs and leaders working in the education sector across Jammu and Kashmir. Among those honoured were Mrs. Musrat Bano, Chairperson of Iqra Model Public School, Kandi Karnah, and Mrs. Rabia Naseem, Chairperson of GM New Light Public Model School, Tadd, Karnah.
Mrs. Musrat Bano was recognised for her more than 16 years of dedicated service to education. Her sustained efforts towards providing quality education to children in Karnah have earned her appreciation beyond the region.
Her latest honour comes after she was recognised earlier this year by a Union Minister, making the Educational Leadership Award another significant achievement in her educational journey. Her work at Iqra Model Public School has focused on creating better learning opportunities for children in a geographically challenging border area.
Speaking about her journey, her recognition reflects the role of women educators who continue to contribute to society despite the challenges associated with working in remote regions.
Mrs. Rabia Naseem, Chairperson of GM New Light Public Model School, Tadd, was also honoured for her contribution to education. Though she established her school nearly two years ago, she has more than eight years of teaching experience, giving her a strong association with the education sector.
The awards were presented as part of Women Edupreneurs Connect 2026, an initiative aimed at bringing women education leaders together, acknowledging their achievements and encouraging greater participation of women in the education sector.
The programme was attended by Education Minister Sakina Masood Itoo as Chief Guest. The Guests of Honour included Salman Ali Sagar and Saif Ud Din Bhat, both MLAs; Prof. Nelofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir; Prof. Mushtaq Siddiqi, former Vice Chancellor, IUST; Naseem Choudhary, Director School Education Jammu; and Naseer Ahmad Wani, Director School Education Kashmir.
The event was organised under the leadership of Baba Nazrul Islam, Chairman PSAJK. Ishfaq Sayeed, Tehsil President PSAJK, also contributed towards facilitating the participation and recognition of educationists from Karnah.
Recognition Brings Border Region into Focus
The honouring of the two educationists has been widely viewed as an encouraging development for Karnah, where educators have been working to expand access to quality education despite geographical and infrastructural challenges.
For Musrat Bano, her recognition after more than 16 years in the field represents a long journey of commitment and perseverance, while Rabia Naseem’s honour highlights the growing participation of women in establishing and leading educational institutions.
The awards have also put the spotlight on the important role being played by women educators in remote areas, where their efforts extend beyond classrooms to creating opportunities for the educational and social development of younger generations.
The recognition of the two Karnah-based education leaders at a major educational platform in Srinagar is being seen as a proud moment for the entire border region and an inspiration for aspiring women educators.(JKNS)
