| News Details |
| “Historic Private University Bill Will Transform J&K Into An Educational Hub | | Assures Full Government Support”: Advisor To CM Nasir Aslam | 
Srinagar,April 14 (Scoop News)-In a landmark initiative aimed at reshaping the educational landscape of Jammu & Kashmir, the WathHarbour Foundation formally launched its ambitious proposed “Kashmir First Private University Project” during a grand event marked by a membership drive, release of a campaign anthem, unveiling of a comprehensive vision document and screening of a short film.
The event witnessed participation from a distinguished gathering of leading academicians, education policymakers, prominent scholars, community leaders and representatives from trade, industry and civil society, reflecting widespread support for the initiative.
The programme was graced by Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, as Chief Guest, alongside a galaxy of eminent personalities including Ms. Neha Jain (IPS, SP East) she was represented SSP Srinagar, Senior Counsel Advocate Zaffar Shah, former Chairman JKPSC Latief-uz-Zaman Deva, noted poet and social activist Zareef Ahmad Zareef, PSA Founder & Patron Dr. G.N. Var, WathHarbour Foundation Founder Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi, Former Radio Kashmir Broadcaster Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor, Jagmeet Kaur Bali (President All Sikh Minority Employees Association), Faiz Ahmad Bakhshi (Gen. Secretary , KCC&I), NIT Dean International Afficers Prof. M.A Shah, Former joint director School Education Mehboob Ahmad, Former KAS Officer Aijaz Kakroo, Adv A.R Hanjura (Social Reformer, WathHarbor Memeber), S.P Qaisar (Consultant ), Dr. Afifa Kamili (Former Director SKUAST-Kashmir), Dr. Nighat Fatima (Former Principal Government Degree College, Department of Higher Education), Riyaz Ahmad Shoga (Ex- Banker), Private School's Association (PSA) President Bilal Ahmad Bhat, General Secretary M.Syed Wani, Finaial Secretary Hilal Ahmad Khan, Director Media & Comminations Dr. Owais Mattoo, PRO B.A Shah, Social Activist Dr. Touseef Bhat, Trade Leader Peer Imtiyaz ul Hassan, Moulana Hassan Afzal Fordosi, Moomin Wani WathHarbor Foundation Coordinator several others.
The event was hosted by Dr. Farhat Umar, while the WathHarbour team and stakeholders were present in large numbers.
In his welcome address, PSA Founder & Patron, Dr. G. N. Var termed the Private University Bill a historic step that can transform Jammu & Kashmir into an educational hub. “This legislation will create new opportunities for students and strengthen both school and higher education in the region,” he said.
Dr. Var thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Education Minister Ms. Sakeena Itoo, all MLAs and especially Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani for supporting the initiative and attending the event. He said their presence reflected the government’s commitment to educational reform and the future of students in Jammu & Kashmir.
Addressing the gathering, Advisor to CM Nasir Aslam Wani termed the recently passed Private University Bill as a historic milestone and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening higher education infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir.
“I thank the organisers for inviting me to this special and forward-looking event. The Omar Abdullah-led government has passed a historic Private University Bill, opening new avenues for educational growth in J&K,” he said.
Wani emphasized that the initiative would not only improve access to quality education but also curb the outflow of students and capital from the region.
“Every year, thousands of crores are spent as our students move outside for higher education. Establishing quality institutions within J&K will not only retain talent but also strengthen our economy and provide a sense of security to parents,” he noted.
Highlighting changing global trends, Wani stressed the need for skill-oriented education “We must move beyond degree-oriented education and prepare job-ready youth. The world has changed, new fields like AI and digital platforms are shaping careers. Our institutions must adapt accordingly.”
He assured full support from the Omar Abdullah led government “We will extend all possible help to initiatives like WathHarbour Foundation. Anyone willing to establish a university in J&K will find the government standing firmly with them.”
Representing SSP Srinagar, Ms. Neha Jain (IPS, SP East) appreciated the organisers and extended best wishes on behalf of Srinagar Police. “On behalf of Srinagar Police, I congratulate the organisers for this visionary initiative. The Private University Bill is a significant step that will benefit local students by providing quality higher education opportunities within their home region.”
Senior Counsel Advocate Zaffar A. Shah described the legislation as a historic development but stressed the importance of societal and institutional support.
“After decades, we are witnessing the emergence of a legal framework for private universities in J&K. However, laws alone cannot bring change society must support and participate actively.”
He added “This is not an individual mission; it is a collective responsibility. Visionaries like PSA founder G.N. Var and Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi deserve full support from both government and society to make this prestigious project a reality.”
Founder of WathHarbour Foundation, Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi, outlined the vision behind the Kashmir First University Project. “This initiative is not just about establishing a university, it is about building an ecosystem that nurtures talent, innovation and opportunity within Kashmir.”
He highlighted the issue of brain drain “When our students leave, we are not just losing talent, we are contributing to the growth of other economies. This project aims to reverse that trend by creating world-class institutions here.”
Makhdoomi emphasized collaboration “This is not a one-person idea, it is a collective movement. Together, we can build institutions that redefine the future of education in Jammu & Kashmir.”
PSA President Bilal Ahmad Bhat also extended full support “This was once a dream and today it is taking shape as a reality. I congratulate the J&K government led by Omar Abdullah for passing the historic Private University Bill and appreciate Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi and the WathHarbour Foundation team for this visionary initiative. This will not only benefit our students but also help transform Jammu & Kashmir into an educational hub. PSA stands fully committed to support this mission from KG to PG.”
Former IAS officer Latief-uz-Zaman Deva termed the initiative “timely and transformative,” stressing policy alignment and institutional integrity.
Renowned Kashmiri poet writer Zareef Ahmad Zareef praised the effort “This project carries hope for the youth of Kashmir. It reflects a vision where education becomes the foundation of progress and dignity.”
Jagmeet Kaur Bali, President of All Sikh Minority Employees Association, highlighted inclusivity “We have been part of this initiative for years. It is not about any one community, this project will benefit all, especially minorities who face challenges in accessing higher education outside J&K.”
Former KAS officer Aijaz Kakroo emphasized administrative facilitation, while other speakers stressed innovation, research and academic excellence.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by S.P. Qaisar, who appreciated the presence of distinguished guests and reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to taking the initiative forward with collective support.
The event marked a significant step toward realizing the vision of making Jammu & Kashmir a center of educational excellence. With strong backing from policymakers, academicians and civil society, the Kashmir First University Project is poised to become a transformative force in the region’s academic and economic landscape.
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