AWANTIPORA: A one day programme on G20 University Connect was hosted by Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) in collaboration with the University of Kashmir and Central University of Kashmir.
The function was attended by Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor IUST (Patron) and Prof. Farooq ahmad Shah, Vice Chancellor CUK (Co-patron) while the Vice Chancellor University of Kashmir Prof. Nilofar Khan was the Chief Guest.
In his address, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo described the role of G20 block in framing Policies for addressing emerging world challenges especially, climate change, energy, food and water security, inclusivity etc and said that these global concerns require global consensus for redressal.
He said that India’s G20 presidency which bears the theme “One Earth, One Family, One Future” symbolises the necessity of concerted and collective efforts for common good across the globe. He further said that such events play an important role in spreading awareness and sensitising our youth who are tomorrow’s leaders.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Shah said that it is important that the concerns of the world are discussed at multilateral fora for finding acceptable solutions. He said that G20 constitutes about 80% of the world’s GDP and has a tremendous role in steering global policy-making.
In her presidential address, Prof. Nilofar Khan said that the theme of today’s programme is apt as the impact of climate change is visible across the world. She further said that the universities should join hands in generating knowledge that shall help to address important societal issues like drug addiction etc.
She congratulated the organizers and suggested a deeper university connect. Registrar CUK Prof. M. Afzal Zargar also addressed the audience and highlighted the significance of India’s G20 presidency and collaborative efforts at the university level for making the youth aware.
Dean of Students IUST, Dr Asifa Baba coordinated the programme and presented the welcome address while Registrar IUST Prof. Naseer Iqbal presented the vote of thanks and said that universities have a bigger role in shaping the youth and making them aware about the problems faced at global level for a better understanding and commitment towards evolving solutions.
Earlier in the day, a panel discussion was held during which experts from IUST, CUK and KU deliberated on “India’s G-20 Presidency: Climate Change and Future World Order”. The discussion was chaired by Prof. Fayaz Ahmad Head, Department of EVS, KU and moderated by Dr. Rumaan Bashir, I/C Dean SOE&T IUST.