Awantipora, July 16: Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST), through its Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (CIED) and the Centre for Good Governance & Policy Analysis (CGG&PA), in collaboration with Pi Jam Foundation and the Department of School Education, Jammu & Kashmir, organised Project Conclave “Raah: Strengthening Pathways for Student Innovators” at its Innovation Campus, Awantipora.
The conclave brought together student innovators, educators, government officials, innovation ecosystem partners, and academic leaders to promote innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurship among school students by connecting them with experts, institutions, and ecosystem stakeholders.
Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, IUST, who was the Chief Guest, appreciated the efforts of the organizers to create meaningful opportunities for young innovators and emphasized the need to nurture innovation and problem-solving skills from an early age.
Prof. Parvez Ahmad Mir, CEO, CIED-IUST, highlighted the role of universities and incubation centres in supporting young innovators by providing mentorship, technical guidance, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
The programme featured presentations by ten selected student innovation teams from schools across Kashmir. The students showcased innovative solutions addressing real-life challenges and received valuable feedback from experts and mentors during the interactive pitch sessions.
Speaking on the occasion, Shoaib Hafiz Dar, CEO, Pi Jam Foundation, said that Raah has been envisioned as a collaborative platform to connect student innovators with educational institutions, incubation centres, industry, and government stakeholders, thereby creating sustained pathways for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The programme concluded with a valedictory session, distribution of certificates and mementos to participating students and supporting institutions, and a networking interaction among stakeholders to explore future collaborations for strengthening the innovation ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir.
