To encourage a strong, engaged alumni community setting the stage for future collaborations and continued efforts to strengthen ties with its alumni, the Department of Library and Information Science (DLIS), University of Kashmir (KU), Wednesday hosted its first-ever alumni meet.

Dean Academic Affairs, Prof Shariefuddin Pirzada, inaugurated the event with the traditional kindling of wild rue seeds (izband ceremony). He was accompanied by KU Registrar, Prof Naseer Iqbal and Head, DLIS, KU, Prof Sumeer Gul.

In a statement, KU Vice Chancellor, Prof Nilofer Khan, urged the alumni to actively engage with the university to guide and mentor the next generation of library professionals and scholars.

“The alumni meet is not just an event; it's a celebration of our shared past and an investment in our collective future. The presence of our esteemed alumni reflects the bond they maintain with their alma mater,” Prof Khan said, adding that such gatherings help strengthen the connection between institutions and alumni, while encouraging collaboration for the institutional growth.

During the inaugural session, Dean Academic Affairs Prof Shariefuddin Pirzada, reflected on the emotional connection alumni share with their alma mater.

He discussed the role of alumni in the institution’s development and assured the gathering of the varsity’s commitment to making alumni meets a regular and impactful tradition.

"Your love for this institution is evident today and together we can contribute to its growth by mentoring future generations,” he added.

Registrar Prof Naseer Iqbal encouraged the alumni to explore global job opportunities, stating, “The sky is the limit and there are no boundaries to your aspirations. KU is committed to recruiting talented professionals and looks forward to alumni contributing to our ongoing efforts.”

A recorded message from Prof Wajih A Alvi, Former Head, DLIS, highlighted the importance of adapting to modern technologies such as AI, Machine Learning and Augmented Reality.

He urged the alumni to embrace technological advancements and upskill themselves to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving field.

"Libraries are crucial to academic and research endeavours and we must leverage new technologies to keep our discipline at the forefront,” he said.

Former Head, DLIS, Dr A M Baba, in his alumni address, shared insights into the evolution of the department and its contribution to academia and the library profession.

“The department has played a pivotal role in producing distinguished professionals who have excelled in various capacities across the world,” he added.

Earlier, Head, DLIS, Prof Sumeer Gul, in his welcome address, acknowledged the significance of alumni in shaping the institution’s legacy and emphasised that this historic meet serves as a platform to celebrate the department’s journey.

"The faces here are filled with joy and we are all back in the memory lanes, reliving our golden days,” he said.

The event featured cultural performances, including traditional dance and music, creating a festive atmosphere. Alumni speeches, a quiz and an address by Former Head, DLIS, Prof S M Shafi, added to the day’s proceedings.

Senior Assistant Professor, DLIS, Dr Nadim Akther Khan, conducted the proceedings of the vent while, Senior Assistant Professor, DLIS, Dr Rosy Jan, proposed the formal vote of thanks.