SRINAGAR: In a historic feat, the Kashmir University (KU) Pencak Silat (Men/Women) teams showcased exceptional talent at the All India Inter-University Championship 2023-24 hosted by Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar under the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) banner.
Both Men and Women teams secured the prestigious title of 1st Runners Up, clinching a total of 11 medals (1 Gold, 3 Silver, and 7 Bronze) in each category, trailing only behind the champion and host GNDU University.
In an official statement, KU Vice Chancellor, Prof Nilofer Khan extended heartfelt congratulations to both the teams (Men and Women) and also to the accompanying staff. She emphasised the university’s commitment to providing top-notch facilities for students while expressing pride in their national-level achievements.
“Today, we celebrate not just victories, but the unshakable spirit and dedication of our Pencak Silat teams. Kashmir University stands resolute in its commitment to provide world-class facilities for our students and we take immense pride in their historic achievements on the national stage, Prof Khan reiterated, adding that this remarkable feat positions KU as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of martial arts.
KU Registrar, Dr Nisar Ahmad Mir, while sharing his delight at the outstanding performance, acknowledged the students’ dedication and pledged continued support for such endeavours.
“We owe a lot to the students for such a performance,” he said, adding that the varsity provides advanced sports infrastructure and facilities to enable students to participate in both indoor and outdoor sports activities.
Coordinator, Directorate and Physical Education and Sports (DPES), KU, Dr Nadeem Ahmad (Observer), Sheikh Adil (Manager-cum-Coach) and Surjeet Kour (Assistant Manager) accompanied the squad.
Coordinator, DPES, KU, Dr Nadeem Ahmad expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor Prof Nilofer Khan and Registrar Dr Nisar Ahmed Mir for unwavering support, highlighting their faith in the students, which was duly rewarded with an outstanding performance.
Manager-cum-Coach, Sheikh Adil, commended the students for their resilience, especially in the face of injuries, applauding their commendable competition against GNDU Amritsar.
Assistant Manager, Surjeet Kour, praised the entire squad, emphasising the collective effort that led to this remarkable achievement on the national stage.
The KU Pencak Silat teams have not only made history but have also set a benchmark for future athletic endeavours within the university, the statement added.