Srinagar: The University of Kashmir is going to conduct the entrance examinations of the students on a fast-track basis, through which the students can complete their degrees at the university before the given deadline.
In an interview with Rising Kashmir, Director of Admission and Competitive Exams at Kashmir University, Prof. Fayaz Ahmad, said currently, the university offers two categories of courses. For students who have completed their 12th grade, there are eight available courses. For those who have graduated, there are 60 courses offered, with the admission process commencing annually. This year, we have also introduced new programmes, including courses in intelligence and machine learning; the second cohort for this programme will begin admissions in this academic session. Additionally, we are preparing to conduct entrance examinations for courses that require a 12th-grade qualification. As the 12th-grade examinations are scheduled to conclude in March, students will be able to secure provisional admissions until their official results are announced.
“The PG entrance examinations will commence promptly. For students from the cluster university to gain admission into the PG programs, it is essential that the cluster university conduct the examinations in a timely manner. This will enable students from the cluster university to secure admission in various courses at Kashmir University.” Fayaz said.
He said that the main campus of the University of Kashmir offers a variety of primary courses. Previously, the university managed six campuses, including those in Leh and Ladakh. However, with the establishment of infrastructure at these two campuses, they are no longer affiliated with the University of Kashmir. Currently, the University of Kashmir has four satellite campuses located in the Kashmir Valley: North Campus, South Campus, Kupwara Campus, and the Engineering Campus in Zakura. In addition to these campuses, there are numerous colleges affiliated with the University of Kashmir that provide a diverse range of courses for students.
“Since I assumed the role of Director of Admissions and Competitive Exams, I have received clear guidelines from Vice Chancellor Prof. Nelofar. She emphasized the importance of timely student admissions to avoid unnecessary delays. We are also working to reduce the need for students to visit the campus by leveraging technology. With the implementation of an online admission process, students are no longer required to submit hard copies of their application forms to the university, as they can provide their information electronically. Additionally, students can download their admit cards from their respective locations without needing to come to campus,” the director said.
He said that Previously, students visited the campus to check the admission waiting list; however, we will soon upload this information to the university website, allowing students to access details about available admission seats online. Furthermore, we will offer multiple options for students to select their preferred campus through the online platform. The list of self-financed seats will be announced following the release of the general seat allocation, enabling students to apply for admission to these self-financed options as well.
Professor Fayaz stated that they will soon implement online assistance across all departments, enabling students to address their concerns remotely without the need to visit the university. This initiative has already been initiated in the examinations department.
In response to queries about the university’s lack of social media engagement, which hinders students from receiving accurate information about exams, admissions, and other matters, he stated, “We are planning to establish social media platforms. These will provide students with timely updates regarding university admissions, examinations, and other essential information.”
“The students must check the university website on a regular basis, through which they get to know about the entrance exams notice and forms, which can get updated on the official website of the university,” the director said.
He stated that Kashmir University has allocated 5 percent of its seats for international students, allowing foreign nationals to pursue their studies at the institution. Additionally, an international hostel has been established at the Zakura campus to accommodate these foreign students.
“Prior to selecting subjects for the entrance examinations, students are encouraged to visit the campus to explore the available facilities. During this visit, they can engage in discussions with departmental coordinators about their interests and potential career paths, which will aid them in making informed choices. The coordinators and professors will offer comprehensive information about their respective departments to assist students in making well-considered decisions regarding their subject selections, as stated by Prof. Fayaz.
In his message to the students, Professor Fayaz emphasized the importance of being prepared to take the entrance examinations that will allow them to gain admission to the university. He also advised students to carefully select their courses, as making informed decisions will significantly enhance their future prospects in this field.
