Srinagar, Nov 08: To celebrate the successful completion of a yearlong upskilling project for female trainees from Bazipora, Bandipora, providing them with skills in cutting and tailoring, the University of Kashmir (KU), hosted a certificate distribution event here.
Organised by the varsity’s Centre for Capacity Building and Skill Development (CCBSD) in collaboration with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), the event marked a significant milestone in the journey of these aspiring women towards economic independence and societal contribution.
On the occasion, Dean, Academic Affairs, KU, Prof Shariefuddin Pirzada, expressed fulfilment in the participants’ progress and the university’s role in uplifting communities.
“These certificates signify a step towards independence and self-confidence for these women and not just acknowledgment of completing the training,” he said while distributing certificates to the trainees.
Mohammad Adil Ahsan from SIDBI Kashmir, in his remarks on the occasion, emphasised SIDBI’s commitment to supporting grassroots skill-building initiatives.
“Through collaborations like these, we aim to empower communities, provide viable livelihood opportunities and enable trainees to transform their lives through entrepreneurship,” he said.
Highlighting its mission, Director, CCBSD, KU, Dr Aadil Bashir, in his welcome address, said the project aims to help women take charge of their economic future.
“Our goal is to equip aspiring individuals, particularly women, with income-generating skills that allow them to achieve self-reliance and encourage entrepreneurial spirit,” he added.
The event also witnessed a cultural programme by artists from the varsity’s Institute of Music and Fine Arts.
Project Officer, Manzoor Ahmad, conducted the proceedings of the event.
The project, launched online by KU Vice Chancellor, Prof Nilofer Khan in November 2023, was designed as a comprehensive programme spanning six months of intensive skill training.
Following the completion of the course, participants were evaluated in designing and tailoring, receiving pedal-driven sewing machines as an additional boost to their entrepreneurial journey.
CCBSD also organised guest lectures by industry experts, health check-ups and exposure visits for the trainees. Additionally, an entrepreneurial group named ‘Wullar Entrepreneurs’ has been established with 10 trainees, who have already showcased their work at the varsity’s business festival ‘CHIRGISH’, coordinated by CCBSD.
Director, Institute of Technology, KU (Zakura Campus), Prof M Tariq Banday besides various other guests and faculty members attended the ceremony.
