Srinagar: The Punjab Unaided Colleges Association (PUCA) on Monday felicitated Nasir Khuehami, National Convenor of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA), for his consistent, relentless, and outstanding work in championing student-centric causes across the country, particularly in the Punjab region.
The felicitation ceremony was held in Srinagar, where Khuehami was honoured by PUCA President and Chairman of Aryans Group of Colleges, Dr. Anshu Kataria and other representatives of Association. The event was attended by PUCA office bearers, along with chairpersons and heads of various colleges from Punjab. PUCA, a prominent body representing over 250 institutions in Punjab, has been actively engaged in promoting education, student welfare, and institutional collaboration.
Khuehami, who has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights, safety, and welfare of students from Jammu and Kashmir as well as other marginalized groups, was recognised for his remarkable contributions in the fields of education, student empowerment, and social upliftment.
Over the past eight years, he has played a pivotal role in supporting thousands of Kashmiri students during times of crisis, addressing their day to day grievances at both institutional and governmental levels, and serving as a bridge between students and authorities. From facilitating safe spaces for Kashmiri students in Punjab to ensuring their integration and academic growth, Khuehami’s work has built trust and strengthened ties between Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir and beyond.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Anshu Kataria said; “Nasir Khuehami has emerged as a true voice of the students at the national level. His dedication, selfless service, and proactive approach have positively impacted the lives of thousands of youth, particularly from Jammu and Kashmir. Punjab has always opened its heart to Kashmiri students, treating them as their own, and we will continue to provide them with the best possible educational opportunities. Kataria further added that Khuehami’s work has been recognised nationally, especially by successive governments and the administration of Punjab, for his efforts in ensuring that the relationship between the two regions is not undermined by political developments.
While receiving the honour, Khuehami expressed gratitude to PUCA for acknowledging his work and lauded the warm and inclusive role Punjab has always played for Kashmiri students. He asserted that, Our mission is to ensure that students, especially from remote and marginalized backgrounds, are given equal opportunities and a safe environment to thrive. Punjab has always treated Kashmiris as their own, offering them a second home, and we are deeply grateful for that. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the bond of love and brotherhood between Punjab and Kashmir remains unshaken, regardless of political uncertainty.” Khuehami urged PUCA and educational institutions in Punjab to continue extending their support to Kashmiri students, ensuring that no student suffers discrimination or alienation.
