Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 21: The Department of Students’ Welfare (DSW) at the University of Kashmir, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) J&K Regional Branch, hosted the IIPA annual debate 2024.
The event, organized by the Division of Youth Affairs, saw enthusiastic participation from students across the Kashmir division, who debated the topic, “Artificial Intelligence is Reshaping the World for the Benefit of Mankind.”
In her address at the prize distribution ceremony, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, Prof Nilofer Khan, lauded the participants for their vibrant energy.
She emphasized the importance of extracurricular activities like debates in the holistic development of students, stating, “These platforms foster intellectual growth and are crucial in shaping well-rounded personalities, preparing our students to be future leaders.”
Prof Naseer Iqbal, Registrar of the University of Kashmir, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the role of debates in developing critical thinking and communication skills, which are essential in today’s world.
Dr G N Qasba, Vice Chairman of IIPA J&K Chapter, expressed gratitude to the University authorities for their support, noting the success of the event as a foundation for future collaborative initiatives aimed at nurturing the intellectual and leadership capabilities of the youth.
The debating team from the Department of Law, University of Kashmir, emerged victorious, lifting the coveted IIPA Rolling Trophy.
The winning team, consisting of Huma Khursheed and Barha Malik, impressed the judges with their compelling arguments.
Individual honors went to Yarzuq Bilal from Amar Singh College, who secured first place, followed by Seerat Bhat from GDC Baramulla in second and Huma Khursheed from the Department of Law, KU, in third.
Additional merit-based cash prizes were awarded to five other students from various institutions.
The event was coordinated by Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer of the University of Kashmir.