Student voices take centre stage at GCW M A Road conference

Srinagar, July 23: The Government College for Women (GCW), M.A. Road, Srinagar, hosted a thought-provoking one-day student conference on Wednesday organised by the college’s Debating and Seminar Committee under the theme “Here and Beyond.” The conference saw enthusiastic participation from students across educational institutions in Kashmir, who debated some of the most pressing challenges of the present day, including drug abuse, social media addiction, and climate change.A statement issued here said that the event was graced by distinguished jurists Prof. Neerja Matoo and Prof. Naseem Shafaie, both of whom are celebrated figures in academia and the arts. Prof. Matoo, a veteran educationist and vocal advocate for women’s rights, and Prof. Shafaie, a Sahitya Akademi Award-winning poet, shared their reflections on the role of the college in empowering Kashmiri women through the decades. Recalling her long association with the institution, Prof. Neerja Matoo said, “In 1950, this college opened its doors and liberated Kashmiri women from despondency, illiteracy, and hopelessness to see the world and its possibilities. As a result, Kashmiri women were truly emancipated. I had the good fortune of doing my little bit in this college.”Praising the performance by the college’s drama club, she remarked on the revival of a cherished tradition: “Today it’s a revelation to see how free the atmosphere here is. We used to take pride in our theatre. We had a drama festival every year with full-length plays. I am happy to see this tradition still alive.” Prof. Naseem Shafaie, visibly moved by the atmosphere and student engagement, recited verses from her well-known poems and fondly recalled her ties to the college. arlier, in her welcome address, Principal Prof. (Dr.) Yasmeen Farooq highlighted the significance of the event in the context of the college’s 75th year of academic excellence. Prof. Yasmeen appreciated the efforts of the Debating and Seminar Committee, particularly Dr. Abina Habib, the convener of the event. The conference concluded with the distribution of certificates to winners and participants. Students who contributed to organizing and conducting the event were also felicitated.