Awantipora Sept 13: The Department of Architecture in collaboration with the Dean of Students, IUST organized a workshop focusing on Sustainable Goal -11 concerning Sustainable Cities and Communities. The Chief Guest on the occasion was Mr. Iftikhar Ahmad Kakroo, Chief Engineer, Srinagar Smart City Ltd.
Addressing the inaugural function, Vice Chancellor IUST, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo emphasized the importance of constructing cities that are resilient, sustainable, and dedicated to preserving their cultural heritage, as these aspects are crucial for achieving inclusive development. Professor Romshoo also stressed that educational institutions must actively demonstrate their support and actively engage in government efforts to transform the vision of building sustainable cities and communities into a tangible reality.
Professor Romshoo further highlighted the significance of community and stakeholder engagement, emphasizing that involving these key players greatly aids in the successful execution of projects. He also expressed his belief that the Srinagar Smart City authorities should forge partnerships with academic institutions to facilitate knowledge exchange. This collaboration would enable the effective utilization of data generated by smart city technologies, thereby addressing the challenges associated with efficiently delivering smart city services.
In his address, Mr. Iftikhar Ahmad Kakroo talked about different projects completed as well as undergoing under the Srinagar Smart City. He discussed in detail about objectives of the projects, challenges faced in implementation, success projects such as Jhelum Riverfront, Polo-view, ‘Gantaghar’ etc. that have reinvigorated the urban infrastructure. He also listed different projects being undertaken to strengthen the IT ecosystem of Srinagar such as Srinagar Data Network, ITMS etc.
During the event, Mr. Anuj Malhotra, the General Manager of Planning and Urban Development, delivered a presentation that focused on the urban transformation of Srinagar as part of the Smart City Mission. Additionally, Mr. Sheikh Intekhab Alam conducted a session that provided a critical appraisal of the Srinagar Smart City project.
Eminent pathologist delivers lecture on ‘Structure of DNA’
Dr Syed Mir Sajjad, Director, Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Marshfield Clinic, USA delivered a lecture on ‘Discovery and Structure of DNA’ at IUST. The interactive session was chaired by Vice Chancellor IUST, Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo and was attended by Deans of Schools, Heads of Departments, faculty and scholars.
Dr Sajad gave a detailed presentation reflecting the contribution of different scientists in the discovery of DNA and understanding its complex structure. He said that science opens up unimaginable possibilities but demands keen observation, a high level of curiosity and a problem solving approach. He urged the young faculty to pursue their dreams and emphasized on institutional support in realizing path breaking discoveries. He said that Discovery of the Structure of DNA and its properties is a testament to the importance of collaborations among diverse fields of study and said team work opens new vistas. He also talked about research in new areas of medical technology such as gene therapy, evolving modern approach to conventional therapies for treatment of diseases etc.
Dr Sajjad also interacted with scholars and faculty in the Centre of Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning and also discussed scope of collaborations in the use of AI in medical services.
On this occasion, Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo said IUST is transitioning towards becoming a Research Intensive Institute. He said that in the light of scientific and technological innovations and other developments, universities have to devote towards developing solutions to the issues confronting society and contribute towards growth and prosperity of the nation.
