Awantipora: The Richen Shah Centre for West Himalayan Cultures (RSCWHC), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) convened its Advisory Council meeting today.
The advisory council met under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor IUST, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo. It was attended by experts from different institutions across the country, including Prof. Balaji Kendrea (Dept. of Sociology, Bombay University), Prof. Farouq Fayaz (Prof. of History, University of Kashmir), Dr Ibrahim Wani, (Dept. of Anthropology, University of Kashmir), Sonam Wangchok, (Civil Society member, Leh), and Dr. Sonam Jolden (Dean, University of Ladakh).
The Council discussed the strategic plan for the centre with particular emphasis on exploring the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous tribes, their socio-cultural facets, tribal art, medicine system and scope for collaborative cultural studies among others.
In his address, Prof Shakil A. Romshoo emphasised on the centre to identify the thrust areas of research that would have a bearing on policy formulations and also research the impact of different initiatives undertaken about the upliftment and inclusive development of such communities. Dean of Academic Affairs Prof A. H Moon said that the centre is currently offering PhD program and from the ensuing academic session will offer courses focusing on communities and cultures of West Himalayan societies.
Prof Pirzada Mohammed Amin Director of RSCWHC talked about the different initiatives undertaken by the centre regarding community awareness, outreach and extension activities and academic programmes etc. The council meeting was attended among others by Dr Peezada Mohamad Amin (Director of Richen Shah Centre), Dr Munejah Khan, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences Prof. Sheikh Javed (Dean of Research), and Prof. Lily Want (Dean of Outreach).
