The Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) is making significant strides in improving educational opportunities and career prospects for students, particularly through the success of its various programs. Recently, CUKashmir hosted an event to disseminate research findings from the Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojna, particularly focusing on the evaluation of the UMEED and Startup Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP). This program, sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), was conducted across all blocks of Ganderbal district, emphasizing rural livelihood improvements.
During the event, Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath highlighted the transformative potential of SVEP, stating, “The findings provide a solid foundation for future policy enhancements and stakeholder collaboration.” This program aims to encourage sustainable livelihoods focusing on entrepreneurship, thereby fostering economic independence within rural communities.
Prof. Fayaz Ahmad Nika, Project Director and Dean of the School of Business Studies, presented findings from the study, which showcased the significant socio-economic empowerment of women through Self-Help Groups (SHGs). He noted, “Through UMEED-SVEP, many Self-Help Group (SHG) members have evolved...enhancing their financial independence.” His observations emphasized the correlation between improved income levels and access to education and healthcare for families of these successful entrepreneurs.
Financial institutions play a key role, as highlighted by Prof. Nika, who pointed out the necessity of streamlined lending mechanisms. “While banks and microfinance institutions have been instrumental...simplified lending mechanisms and enhanced financial literacy are necessary,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of supporting these aspiring entrepreneurs.
Former Dean of the University of Kashmir, Prof. Nissar Ali, also addressed attendees, urging graduates to shift their mindset from job-seeking to job-creation. With rising unemployment rates, he emphasized, “Self-reliance through entrepreneurship is the way forward. By leveraging their skills and creativity, young graduates can generate employment and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.”
Meanwhile, proving the effectiveness of these educational initiatives, CUKashmir held another pivotal event where it celebrated the successful placements of MBA students within HDFC Bank as Executive Trainees. Prof. A. Ravinder Nath distributed offer letters to the selected students and stressed the importance of professionalism and integrity as they step onto their new career paths.
“Act as ambassadors of the university and guide your peers,” he encouraged, highlighting the need for students to connect and support each other as they navigate their careers. He also directed the Central Placement and Career Planning Cell to explore placement opportunities with more corporate firms nationwide, showcasing the university’s commitment to career development and professional growth for its students.
Celebrated for his contributions to academic research, Peerzada Munagib Naseer, from Bagathpora, Handwara, has also been recognized for his academic excellence. He was recently awarded his Ph.D. for his research, “Consumer Perception and Purchase Intention toward Organic Food for Sustainability: An Empirical Study,” at the University of Kashmir. His work adds valuable insights to the sustainability discourse.
Enhancing educational prospects for students beyond Kashmir, Anhui Medical University in China announced it is accepting applications for the Chinese Government Scholarship for the academic year of 2025-26, offering fully funded opportunities for students worldwide. The scholarship covers full tuition fees and accommodation, and recipients will receive monthly stipends to support their living expenses.
The scholarship program highlights the emphasis on global engagement and the opportunity for Kashmiri students to gain international exposure and education. Interested applicants are required to fulfill specific criteria and provide necessary documentation before the application deadline of February 28, 2025.
Through these initiatives and expansions, educational institutions like CUKashmir are not only fostering local talent but also paving paths for their students to contribute to global discourse and improve their communities through entrepreneurship and innovation.