J&K youth have potential to transform society: Itoo

Srinagar, Aug 11: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Monday said the youth of Jammu and Kashmir have the potential to bring positive changes in the society and they need to be supported to establish a developed and just society.The minister made these remarks while addressing the valedictory session of the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect programme organised by Cluster University Srinagar (CUS) at Amar Singh College here.In her address, the minister said that the young generation can bring positive change in the society by creating awareness regarding various societal issues like drug abuse, health and hygiene. “Our youth are incredibly talented. This talent is also showcased through various events and activities being held under Viksit Bharat initiative by Cluster University and other educational institutes,” she said. “We need to explore and tap the potential of youth as they are the driving force for nation-building.”Sakina appreciated various initiatives undertaken by Cluster University, acknowledging its efforts in successfully conducting the pre-event activities under the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme. She said the government is committed to supporting youth-centric initiatives. Itoo appreciated the talent showcased by the participants during the youth parliament held by the university, adding that many of the students can have a bright future in politics as well, to act as agents of change in society.In his address, Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department, Shantmanu, referred to the idea behind the Yuva Connect initiative. “Youth are the driving force for a progressive India, and such platforms help channel their potential in constructive directions,” he said.Shantmanu also stressed the vital importance of youth involvement in propelling India’s progress and encouraged students to play an active role in the nation’s development.Earlier, in his welcome address, Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University Srinagar, Professor Mohammad Mobin, spoke about various initiatives taken by the university in the recent past. These included the introduction of innovative courses, the recruitment of teaching staff and the introduction of PhD research programmes.Professor Mobin underlined the university’s role in fulfilling the aims and objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, particularly in building a robust research culture.In his concluding remarks, Registrar, Professor Syed Wilayat Rizvi highlighted the role of various stakeholders, including students, university and college staff, in the successful conduct of activities under the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect programme.