Awantipora, April 24: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) successfully concluded its three-day Earth Day 2025 celebrations with a valedictory function, calling for urgent and collaborative action to address earth and environmental challenges through renewable energy adoption, innovation, and sustainability-focused solutions.
The final day featured an engaging panel discussion on the theme “Harnessing Renewable Energy, Innovation, and Collaboration for a Sustainable Future,” chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo. The distinguished panelists included Er. Iftikhar Kakroo, Chairman, J&K Water Resources Regulatory Authority; Prof. P.K. Joshi, School of Environmental Sciences, JNU, Prof. A. H. Moon, Dean Academic Affairs, IUST, Ms. Shahala Ali Sheikh, and Dr. Touseef Bhat, both noted environmental activists from civil society. The panelists highlighted the urgent need to transition to renewable energy sources, promote innovation, and strengthen public participation in environmental conservation. The discussion also brought attention to local environmental challenges in Jammu & Kashmir, emphasizing the region’s vulnerability to climate change and resource degradation.
The valedictory function was graced by Prof. Ravindernath, Vice Chancellor, Central University of Kashmir, as the Chief Guest, who emphasized the role of sustainability and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in addressing Earth’s pressing issues.
In his presidential address, Prof. Romshoo highlighted IUST’s commitment to fostering student-led innovations and research-driven solutions for environmental resilience. He also outlined the university’s initiatives in creating knowledge and tools to combat the challenges faced by the Earth system. Er. Iftikhar Kakroo, Guest of Honour, stressed the importance of innovation in meeting energy demands and reducing the carbon footprint of our society. Dean Academic Affairs Prof. A.H. Moon underscored the power of youth and student engagement in environmental stewardship, while Dr. Jasia Bashir, Organizing Secretary, presented a summary of the three-day Earth Day activities.
The function was also attended by the Dean of the School of Architecture, Planning and Geomatics, who welcomed the participants, and Dr. Tariq Abdullah, Head of the Department of Geomatics, who delivered the vote of thanks. Earlier in the day, a painting competition for school students was held, with around 50 enthusiastic participants from across the Kashmir Valley.
The competition offered a platform for young minds from various schools and physically challenged students from Zeba Appa School, Pampore to express their creative reflections on environmental degradation and climate action through art. Prizes were awarded to winners of various events, including poster-making and debate competitions, for showcasing innovation, awareness, and commitment to the planet. The Earth Day 2025 events at IUST highlighted the university’s proactive role in promoting environmental consciousness, youth engagement, and interdisciplinary approaches to building a sustainable future for Jammu & Kashmir and beyond.
