The Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Kashmir (KU) on Tuesday celebrated its Silver Jubilee – 25 Years of Excellence with a day-long academic and alumni engagement programme themed “Engaging with Peers and Alumni” at the Science Block Auditorium, Main campus.

The event marked a significant milestone in the Department’s journey of academic growth, research excellence, and contributions to environmental science at regional, national, and international levels.

Organised as a blend of inaugural session, alumni connect, and commemorative celebrations, the Silver Jubilee event brought together faculty members, former Heads of the Department, alumni, research scholars, and students.

In her presidential address, Vice Chancellor, KU  Prof. Nilofer Khan, recalled that the Department of Environmental Sciences began its journey 25 years ago under the patronage of the Centre of Research for Development (CORD) and has since grown into a full-fledged and independent department.

She said that the progress made by the department over the years reflects its strong academic foundation and consistent research output.

The Vice Chancellor emphasised that research carried out at the University must be aligned with societal needs and community engagement, particularly in addressing environmental challenges within the University’s catchment areas.

She underlined the need for scientific solutions to pressing issues such as pollution of water bodies, including Dal Lake, and stressed that research in areas like climate change should contribute to policy planning.

“As a premier institution of higher learning, the University must engage the community and provide practical, science-based solutions to environmental problems,” she said.

 Dean Academic Affairs KU Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada; Dean Research, Prof. Mohammad Sultan Bhat; and Dean, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Prof. Ghulam Jeelani in their remarks  emphasised the importance of sharing and pooling academic resources and research infrastructure to make research under the School more integrative, impactful, and purpose-driven.

They highlighted the need for collaborative research approaches to address complex environmental challenges.

The Deans further underscored the significance of maintaining strong connections with alumni and organising more such alumni meets. They noted that alumni engagement provides valuable learning opportunities for current students and research scholars, enabling them to benefit from the vast academic, professional, and field experience of former students of the Department.

Earlier, Head, Department of Environmental Sciences and Convener of the event, Dr. Sami Ullah Bhat, in his welcome address, said that the Silver Jubilee celebrations recognise the dedication and achievements of the Department’s alumni, who have made significant contributions to scientific research and environmental protection at various levels. He also provided an overview of the Department’s key areas of specialisation and highlighted the role of alumni in promoting environmental stewardship.

The event also featured the felicitation of former Heads and  faculty members for their contributions to the growth of the department.

A documentary film showcasing the 25-year journey of the Department, including its achievements and alumni success stories, was also screened during the event.

Prominent alumni and former Heads shared their experiences and perspectives, adding depth and inspiration to the Silver Jubilee celebrations.