Srinagar: Islamia College of Science and Commerce organized an Inter-College Debate on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, bringing together students from various colleges in the city to discuss the policy’s potential impact on India’s education system.
The debate, titled “NEP 2020: Students’ Perspective”, provided a platform for young minds to share their insights, critiques, and ideas on the wide-reaching reform.
In her welcome address, Professor (Dr.) Tehmina Yousuf, Principal of Islamia College, highlighted the importance of NEP 2020 and its objectives. She noted that the policy aims to transform India’s education system with a focus on inclusivity, flexibility, and quality enhancement, thereby preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
Prof. Uheeda Shah, Convenor of Debates and Seminars at the college, explained that NEP 2020’s interdisciplinary curriculum allows students to tailor their education to their interests by combining subjects from various streams, such as arts, sciences, and vocational training. “This flexibility promotes holistic development and empowers students to shape their own educational paths,” she remarked.
Participants debated a range of topics associated with NEP 2020, including curriculum reforms, vocational education, multilingualism, technology integration, and mental health support. Diverse perspectives from students of different academic and regional backgrounds enriched the discussion, fostering an environment of intellectual engagement and critical analysis of the policy.
The debate was adjudicated by Dr. Nayer Rizwana from Islamia College, Prof. Mohd Zubair from Gandhi Memorial College, and Prof. Suhail Showkeen from Government Degree College for Women, Zakura. The judges awarded top honors to four participants: Rukhsar Khan, BA Semester V, Islamia College of Science and Commerce, claimed the first position; Khateba Mukhtar, Semester III, Amar Singh College, took second place; and Ayesha Javeed from Gandhi Memorial College secured third. A consolation prize went to Nuha Nabeelah, BA Semester V, from Islamia College.
The event concluded with a call for sustained dialogue among students, educators, and policymakers to ensure that NEP 2020 is implemented effectively, addressing the diverse needs of India’s student community. The college’s Media Secretary affirmed that Islamia College remains committed to fostering initiatives that encourage critical thinking, public speaking, and civic engagement. Future even
