University of Kashmir (KU) today flagged off the varsity's Cultural Contingent for participation in the 39th Inter-University Youth Festival (North Zone), being organised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), New Delhi, and hosted by Chitkara University, Chandigarh. The flag-off ceremony, led by Registrar KU Prof. Naseer Iqbal, was held at the Main Campus in the presence of faculty members and administrative officials.

In her message, Vice-Chancellor, KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, extended her best wishes to the participating students and highlighted the significance of cultural platforms in higher education.

“Cultural engagement is an integral part of holistic education. Such national platforms provide our students an opportunity to showcase their talent, confidence, and the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir. I wish the contingent great success and hope they represent the University with pride and excellence,” she said.

While interacting with the students, Prof. Naseer Iqbal encouraged the participants and described them as cultural ambassadors of the University, urging them to maintain discipline, exhibit confidence, and reflect the artistic and intellectual strength of the institution through their performances.

Dean DSW KU, Prof. Pervez Ahmad, expressed confidence that the KU contingent would make a meaningful mark at the national-level event.

The contingent, comprising around 30 student participants, is led by the Cultural Officer DSW KU, Dr. Shahid Ali Khan. It will compete in various events under the categories of literary competitions, fine arts, and music, alongside teams from leading universities of the northern region.