ANANTNAG: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, Education Minister, today addressed the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Shaheed Himayun Muzamil Memorial Government Degree College (GDC), Anantnag, marking seventy-five years of academic excellence and dedicated service to higher education across south Kashmir.
MLA Kulgam, M.Y. Tarigami; MLA Anantnag-West, Abdul Majid Bhat Larmi; MLA Shangus-Anantnag East, Reyaz Ahmad Khan; MLA Bijbehara-Srigufwara, Dr Bashir Ahmed Shah Veeri; MLA Kokernag, Zafar Ali Khatana; Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education, Shantmanu; Director Colleges, Prof. Sheikh Aijaz; Principal of the college, Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad Malik; noted Alumni of the college, faculty members, senior officers of district administration and a large number of students were also present on the occasion.
Addressing a large gathering of students, faculty members, alumni, and dignitaries, the Minister commended the college for its remarkable journey from a modest institution to one of the leading centres of learning in the region. She emphasised that the college has played a vital role in nurturing talent, promoting critical thinking, and contributing to the socio-economic development of the area.
“The Platinum Jubilee of this historic institution is not just a celebration of its glorious past but also a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to building a progressive and knowledge-driven society,” Minister Sakeena said.
She highlighted that over the last year, the government led by Omar Abdullah has brought accountability in the higher education sector across Jammu and Kashmir. She underlined that the Government is giving prime importance to the education sector with particular focus on rural and far-flung areas, adding that since the formation of this public government, more than 140 Assistant Professors have been posted in peripheral colleges to address the educational needs of youth of these areas.
Minister Sakeena also highlighted that a 12 percent increase in enrolment has been witnessed across Government Colleges over form last one year, which reflects the commitment of the Government towards improving educational standards in government-run colleges.
The Minister further said that several new hostel accommodations have been built and dedicated for the use of students. She added that this step has been taken to facilitate the students living in far-flung areas, as well as those from lower-income families, so that they can receive higher education.
In her address, the Minister also highlighted the role of this college in producing various personalities who have contributed tremendously towards society in their respective fields.
On the occasion, several MLAs also spoke and highlighted the role of college development in the education sector, especially in South Kashmir.
The Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education and Principal of the college also spoke on the topic and highlighted various academic and infrastructural achievements of the college.
Earlier, the Minister also inaugurated the Science Block and Badminton Hall along with the canteen, on the occasion. She highlighted that the Science Block, equipped with modern laboratories and smart classrooms, is expected to provide enhanced learning opportunities and foster research among students. She also said that the Badminton Court and other infrastructure are part of the government’s efforts to improve sports and student welfare facilities, ensuring a holistic educational environment.
The Minister also interacted with students and faculty members, encouraging them to adopt innovative teaching methods, pursue research, and uphold the values of discipline and excellence. She lauded the college administration for maintaining academic vibrancy and introducing career-oriented programs in the institution.
On the occasion, the Minister also presented awards to meritorious students, sports achievers and other students for excelling in their respective fields. She also released various books penned by faculty members of the college.
Earlier, a documentary was also showcased depicting the 75 years of academic journey of the college.
