SRINAGAR, November 19: The Institute of Technology (IoT), Zakura Campus, University of Kashmir, on Wednesday held a review meeting for the Centre for Design Your Degree (CDYD), which offers an interdisciplinary learning pathway to students.
The review team, led by Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice-Chairman J&K Higher Education Council, and Prof. Shobha Bagai, Director CIC, University of Delhi, assessed the Centre’s academic progress, infrastructure, curriculum framework, student mentoring processes, and future expansion plans. Established in February 2024, the Centre currently hosts three student batches.
Prof. Singh expressed satisfaction with the Centre’s growth, noting that such innovative academic spaces help students customise their learning trajectories. Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said the Centre reflects the University’s commitment to flexible, student-led learning aligned with emerging career paths.
Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, said the programme enables students to integrate diverse knowledge streams and build personalised academic pathways in line with global higher education trends.
Interacting with students, Prof. Bagai encouraged them to fully utilise the academic freedom offered under DYD, emphasising its role in fostering ownership, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Director IoT Zakura Campus, Prof. Tariq Banday, highlighted the need for innovation-driven learning and assured continued institutional support. Coordinator CDYD, Prof. Syeda Afshana, presented an overview of the Centre’s development, key achievements, and ongoing initiatives.
An E-yantra Lab, sponsored by RUSA 2.0 and CIIE, was also inaugurated on the occasion. The meeting was attended by faculty members, administrative staff, CDYD students, and members of the J&K Higher Education Council’s review team.
