Awantipora, July 01: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) felicitated the winners of the Spot Essay Competition organised by the Dean of Students Office under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) on the spot topic, “My Role in a Drug-Free Society and Solutions to Drug Addiction.”
During the ceremony, Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, IUST, was the Chief Guest, who felicitated the awardees, appreciated their thoughtful contributions and creative instincts and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to raising awareness against drug abuse. He emphasised the significance of youth leadership and the university’s commitment to promoting holistic student development, social responsibility, and active participation in nation-building through such initiatives.
Earlier, Dr Monisa Qadri, Dean of Students, briefed on the initiatives undertaken by the Dean of Students Office, including this competition, which focused on solution-oriented and creative responses to social issues like the drug menace and student-centric activities. Dr Afroz Bisati, Chairperson of the Jury Committee and Dean School of Humanities and Social Sciences, also appreciated the ideas shared by the students, which reflect the serious involvement of the student community.
Aynain Wani, Asma Jan and Sajad Ahmad Bhat were adjudged as the top three winners of the competition, while Mohammad Haris Rafiqui, Salmana Noor Ain, Abdullah Amin Bazaz, and Nazakat Aslam were awarded the consolation certificates. On this occasion, students who excelled at Spectrum-2026, organised by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Srinagar, were also felicitated in recognition of their outstanding achievements during the festival. Former I/c Dean of Students Dr Asifa Baba was also felicitated in the ceremony. Also present on this occasion were Qazi Qamar Iqbal Qari Dean School of Architecture and Planning; Dr G.N Itoo, Director, Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis; Dr Asifa Baba, Director, Centre for Wellness and Mental Health; Dr Farhana Allaie, Coordinator, Cultural Affairs; and Umar Farooq Dar, Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture. The session was moderated by Ms Isma Hamid, Senior Assistant Professor, Department of English Language and Literature (EL&L).
