After completing my Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from NIT Srinagar in 2017 under the guidance of Prof. Nazir Ahmad Sheikh and Prof. M. A. Shah, I joined SSM College of Engineering as Principal. The transition from being a researcher to leading an institution was significant, and the experience at NIT played a pivotal role in shaping my personality and outlook.
When you spend time in the company of educated individuals, especially seasoned professors, their influence becomes a part of your growth. Many people who notice the calmness and composure in my demeanor often attribute it to the lasting impact of my mentors, guides, and teachers.
I consider myself fortunate to have worked with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at NIT Srinagar, where every member had something valuable to teach. The campus life was vibrant, and leaving NIT meant parting from those intellectually stimulating and lively years. Adjusting to a new environment at SSM College came with its share of challenges. One of the most difficult aspects was commuting a long distance from my hometown, which tested my physical and mental stamina.
I still recall how at NIT, our day would begin with a lecture from the Director himself at 8:30 AM. Inspired by such practices, I strived to bring similar discipline and dedication to SSM. I often quoted the values and leadership style of Prof. Rajat Gupta and Prof. Rakesh Sehgal in my talks to students and faculty, highlighting their professional grit and dynamism.
Prof. G. A. Hermain left a lasting impression with his teaching style, deep knowledge, and pedagogy. I would narrate his methods to students to instill in them the essence of effective learning. Teaching, thus, was never the challenge for me. What I had to learn was administration—communicating effectively, making decisions, and navigating institutional systems.
In this regard, I received invaluable guidance from Mr. Adil Naqash (KAS), former Additional Deputy Commissioner of Anantnag, whose support helped me navigate many administrative hurdles.
One of the significant milestones was initiating the process for NAAC accreditation. Initially, there was resistance from some employees who showed complete negativity towards the idea. Motivating them was a test of leadership. During those days, especially post-abrogation of Article 370 and through the COVID-19 period, we would start our day at 6:00 AM, reach college before 7:00 AM, and leave after 8:00 PM—often just to ensure we beat curfew timings.
With consistent efforts from a committed team, we eventually earned a B+ grade by NAAC, a feat appreciated by all stakeholders, including alumni who felt proud of the positive transformation in the institution.
The signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with esteemed industrial partners such as CETPA and Winnovation has significantly benefited our students by providing them with valuable hands-on experience and enhancing their professional competencies. Additionally, the institute successfully organized programs in collaboration with AICTE focused on innovation and entrepreneurship. These initiatives catered to both students and faculty members, not only within the institute but also from other institutions, thereby fostering a broader culture of innovation and knowledge-sharing.
Living up to the standards set by Prof. Nazir Ahmad Shah, a legendary figure at SSM, was an uphill task. His contributions were profound, and his style of functioning was extraordinary. I often sought support from the management for infrastructure development, lab upgradation, and student events, and their response was always encouraging. Dr. Qazi Shabir and Mrs. Dilafrose Qazi proved to be visionary leaders who wholeheartedly backed positive change.
Another notable milestone was securing UGC 2(f) status, followed by the successful application for autonomous status in February 2025. This was a turning point for the college, and in this endeavor, Prof. M. A. Shah once again emerged as a pillar of support—his unwavering help to both me and the institution was nothing short of a blessing.
I am also deeply grateful for the welcoming and cooperative attitude of officials at the University of Kashmir, especially Deans like Prof. Sahaf, Prof. Khurshid Bhat, Prof. F. A. Masoudi, Prof. Peerzada Sharifudin, Prof. S. M. A. Andrabi, and Prof. Gowhar Wakil. Their encouragement strengthened our efforts and reinforced the sense of academic camaraderie.
In retrospect, this journey has been filled with learning, resilience, and fulfillment. I owe my growth to my mentors, my team, and every individual who played a role in supporting and believing in a shared vision for educational excellence.