National Academia Industrial Conclave 4.0 ''Developing Nano Entrepreneurs in J&K''

12-13 November 2024

The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, in collaboration with the CIED-IUST Foundation, successfully hosted the National Academia-Industry Conclave 4.0, a landmark event aimed at fostering deeper partnerships between academia and industry. The conclave was graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including the Honorable Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha; the Honorable Education Minister, Ms. Sakeena Itoo; senior political leader Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani; Dr. M. Ashraf Ganaie, Director SKIMS Srinagar; Prof. Mohammad Mobin, Vice-Chancellor of the Cluster University of Kashmir; and Mr. Balbir Singh, General Manager and Head of SIDBI Chandigarh. Their presence underscored the event’s significance in advancing industry-academia collaboration in the region.

The Honorable Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, served as the Chief Guest of the conclave and emphasized the critical role of such partnerships in shaping the economic and educational landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. He lauded IUST for its initiatives in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, positioning the university as a key player in the region’s development. The event also included discussions on the integration of industry expertise with academic curricula, with a focus on skill development and employment generation for youth in the Union Territory.

The National Academia-Industry Conclave 4.0 was part of IUST’s week-long celebration marking its 19th Foundation Day. This milestone was commemorated through a series of vibrant events, including a Business Fest, Tech Exhibition, Book Festival, Cultural Festival, Art Exhibition, Literary Festival, and Food Festival, which showcased the university’s dynamic approach to education and innovation. These events provided students and faculty with opportunities to engage, collaborate, and display their talents, reflecting the university’s commitment to holistic development.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo highlighted the university’s dedication to integrating industry and academia to prepare graduates equipped with the skills and vision necessary to lead in a rapidly evolving global economy. Registrar Prof. Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi emphasized IUST’s pioneering initiatives in research, technology, and entrepreneurship, which have positioned it as a hub for innovation in the region.

The Industry-Academia Conclave 4.0 also featured panel discussions and brainstorming sessions led by experts and stakeholders, focusing on themes such as fostering entrepreneurship, supporting startups, and bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry demands. Mr. Balbir Singh of SIDBI detailed the organization’s schemes and contributions to entrepreneurship, while other speakers stressed the importance of upskilling and building an ecosystem conducive to innovation.

The celebrations concluded on a high note, with the successful convergence of thought leaders, entrepreneurs, students, and faculty. The event reaffirmed IUST’s vision of becoming a center of excellence in skill-based education and a driving force in the socio-economic transformation of Jammu and Kashmir.