In an exclusive interview with Rising Kashmir senior correspondent Arif Rashid, the Director of the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Srinagar, Dr. Javid Ahmad Wani sheds light on the institute’s transformative journey, educational priorities, and its significant role in the cultural resurgence of Kashmiri crafts. From infrastructure development to international collaborations, Dr. Wani shares insights into NIFT Srinagar’s commitment to providing a holistic educational experience and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the Kashmir Valley. Excerpts
When you joined as director in 2020, what were your priorities for the upliftment of education at NIFT Srinagar?
When I assumed the directorship, NIFT Srinagar was operating from temporary accommodation. My top priority was the immediate completion of construction work for our own campus at Ompora Budgam. By 2022, the campus became fully operational, providing state-of-the-art facilities for students and teachers.
What courses does NIFT offer, and what’s the admission process?
NIFT Srinagar offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses in design, textiles, and fashion. Students who have passed the 12th-grade exams can apply for the common entrance test conducted by the National Testing Agency. Admission is based on All India Rank and test preferences, with specializations available. Local residents from Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh enjoy a 35% reservation.
How is NIFT Srinagar contributing to the revival of Kashmiri crafts?
Our curriculum includes a “craft cluster initiative,” where students engage with local artisans to understand and contribute to Kashmiri crafts. Additionally, NIFT Srinagar has completed projects on packaging, designing, and GI documentation for seven crafts. We conduct skill training programs for artisans, emphasizing design elements for Kashmiri carpets.
What contributions has NIFT Srinagar made to beautify Budgam town?
Responding to the Deputy Commissioner’s call, our students and faculty, trained in fine arts, painted walls in Budgam town depicting Kashmiri crafts. This initiative has received local and regional appreciation, providing students with valuable learning experiences.
Does NIFT Srinagar have all the facilities compared to other national institutions?
Since 2022, NIFT Srinagar operates from its own campus with facilities like hostels, banks, stores, theaters, parks, and gyms. The campus is designed to provide comprehensive amenities, minimizing the need for students to travel to Srinagar city.
Did student enrolment increase after the campus moved to its own location in 2022?
Yes, with the campus offering additional courses, the enrolment of students has increased. Plans to introduce more courses aim to cater to diverse interests, and we project a rising student population over the next three years.
Has NIFT Srinagar conducted placement drives for its students?
All NIFT campuses, including ours, conduct placement drives. We achieved 100% placement on our campus, and our students also receive opportunities from other NIFT campuses across India.
What kind of support are you receiving from local people after the campus started functioning from its own location?
The support from local residents is commendable. Our students, 90% of whom come from other Indian states, have been well-received, fostering positive engagement with the community.
Does NIFT Srinagar engage in youth exchange programs with international fashion schools?
Yes, NIFT campuses have collaborations with foreign fashion and design schools. Our students participate in youth exchange programs, studying abroad for a semester or a year, receiving dual degrees. We also facilitate short exposure visits to foreign schools and offer semester exchange opportunities within NIFT campuses nationwide.
