Srinagar, April 02: Stressing the need for greater collaboration between educational institutions and industries to prepare students for the challenges of a global economy, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said “we need fearless, curious minds who can innovate and leverage their skills for the benefit of India.”.
He was speaking at the grand alumni meet “Sharda Sangam 2025” held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar on Wednesday. The event brought together Sharda University alumni, faculty, and distinguished dignitaries to celebrate the university’s contributions to education and society.
In his address, LG Sinha extended heartfelt felicitation to the alumni, faculty, and students of Sharda University, urging them to utilise their skills to contribute to nation-building.
“Education is a rare opportunity and represents infinite power. It is the only asset capable of dispelling darkness, and youth must cherish its value system,” said the Lieutenant Governor.
Emphasising the role of alumni in mentoring and knowledge-sharing, LG Sinha stated, “Alumni play a crucial role in networking, building the reputation of their alma mater, and inspiring younger students to achieve their goals.” He also highlighted the importance of alumni in driving economic growth and contributing to India’s development. “You are the knowledge keepers responsible for transferring the expertise gained at the university to the economic sector to fuel India’s growth,” he added.
Speaking about the evolving educational landscape in J&K, LG Sinha underscored the government’s commitment to implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. “We must foster an ecosystem of innovation, skill development, and experiential learning. Education should empower youth to become agents of positive change,” he said, also calling for stronger collaboration between academia and industry.
He also lauded Sharda University for its significant contributions to education and healthcare, particularly its role in providing quality education to students from Jammu and Kashmir.
The Lieutenant Governor’s speech set the tone for the rest of the evening, which saw speeches from other dignitaries, including Sakeena Itoo, Minister for Health, Education, and Social Welfare; Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey, former Chief Justice of the J&K and Ladakh High Court; and Sharda University Chancellor Pradeep Kumar Gupta.
In her address, Prof. (Dr.) Sally Lukose, Dean of Sharda University, emphasized the significance of the university’s alumni network, which now includes over 2,000 graduates from J&K. “Today, we celebrate the remarkable journeys of our alumni, whose achievements continue to inspire us,” she said. “Our university remains committed to nurturing leaders, thinkers, and change-makers.”
Pradeep Kumar Gupta, Chancellor of Sharda University, also praised the alumni for their contributions and spoke about the university’s mission to foster an environment of academic excellence. He highlighted the establishment of Sharda Care Health City, a state-of-the-art hospital that addresses critical health challenges, including cancer.
Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey recognized Sharda University’s role in promoting inclusive education, while Minister Sakeena Itoo acknowledged the role of institutions like Sharda University in shaping the future of J&K’s youth. “Private institutions like Sharda University play a pivotal role in providing quality education, and it is heartening to see students from J&K becoming leaders and visionaries,” she remarked.
The evening also featured a special musical performance by renowned singer Rauhan Malik, whose soulful renditions captivated the audience. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Prof. (Dr.) Hari Shankar Shyam, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, alumni, and organizers for making “Sharda Sangam 2025” a memorable and impactful gathering.
