Awantipora : A high-level meeting was convened on Tuesday between the Vice-Chancellor Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) and the Director of School Education, Kashmir (DSEK), to chart out a robust Outreach Programme aimed at enhancing foundational and advanced learning in Mathematics, Physics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Disruptive Technologies, and Skilling at the school level.
The focus of the discussions was the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and the deliberations emphasized several critical areas, including teacher training and peer collaboration, hands-on learning experiences, student internships, community-based development initiatives, Olympiad preparation, and the development of customized experimental setups. The integration of vocational training, coding, and digital tools into school curricula was also highlighted as essential to fostering employability and innovation among students from an early age.
Prof. Shakil A Romshoo, Vice Chancellor IUST emphasized the university’s commitment to making the programme sustainable. “For this initiative to have a lasting impact, we must invest in the continuous capacity building of schoolteachers and ensure that our engagement leads to scalable models of learning. Our goal is to build a vibrant and inclusive learning ecosystem that benefits both students and educators,” he said.
The meeting witnessed comprehensive presentations by the Heads of Departments of Mathematics and Physics, Coordinator of the Centre for Artificial Intelligence, and Coordinator for Skilling Initiatives. Each speaker outlined core focus areas, innovative outreach strategies, and potential collaborations with schools to nurture curiosity, spark innovation, and strengthen student engagement in both foundational disciplines and future-oriented technologies. The Director of School Education, Kashmir, extended full institutional support and proposed the formation of a joint task force comprising representatives from IUST, the School Education Department, and other stakeholders.
