The Vice Chancellor of Kashmir University Prof Nilofar Khan has called for academic transformation under the National Education Policy (NEP) with a focus on research, global collaboration, and interdisciplinary education. She stressed enhancing student skills, entrepreneurship, digital infrastructure alongwith administrative reforms to boost the university’s NIRF ranking and secure external funding and partnerships.

In an exclusive interview with Brighter Kashmir, Prof Nilofar Khan shared detailed insights on the institution’s ongoing initiatives, administrative priorities, and future plans for higher education in the region.
She emphasized the transformative potential of the National Education Policy (NEP) in raising academic and research standards at Kashmir University.
She highlighted her vision for creating a research-driven culture, promoting interdisciplinary learning, and fostering international collaborations to position the university as a center of excellence on a global scale.
Reflecting on her tenure, Prof Khan spoke about key achievements, including the launch of innovative academic programs, modernization of curricula, and measures to improve student engagement and welfare.
She also discussed steps to strengthen administrative efficiency, streamline decision-making processes, and ensure transparency in governance.
The VC stressed on the importance of continuing the legacy of previous Vice Chancellors while integrating her own strategic vision to advance the university’s mission.
On future plans, she outlined initiatives for faculty development, infrastructure modernization, and skill-building opportunities for students.
She emphasized creating research opportunities, promoting entrepreneurship, and leveraging technology to enhance teaching, learning, and examination systems.
Prof Khan also spoke about efforts to improve Kashmir University’s ranking under the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and initiatives to attract more funding and collaborations.
While addressing staff-related issues, she highlighted reforms in recruitment, promotion policies, and capacity-building programs to ensure efficiency and satisfaction among faculty and administrative personnel.
On student matters, the VC discussed enhancing examination transparency, addressing grievances, and ensuring equal opportunities for all, including support for students from remote areas.
She elaborated on the Research and University Support Mechanism (RUSM) and other academic programs aimed at boosting research productivity and innovation.
Prof Khan also shared her thoughts on fostering inclusivity and gender equality within the university, noting her personal experiences as a woman leading one of the premier institutions in the region. Prof. Khan reflected on her recognition including the prestigious National Geoscience Award to Prof. Ghulam Jeelani, Dean of the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Kashmir by President Droupadi Murmu, which she described as a motivating factor to continue striving for excellence.
Highlighting collaborations with other universities and academic institutions, the VC underlined the importance of partnerships for joint research, faculty exchange programs, and student mobility.
She stressed that strengthening industry linkages, skill development programs, and entrepreneurial initiatives are essential to align higher education with real-world demands and national priorities.
Prof. Khan reaffirmed her commitment to transforming Kashmir University into a model institution that excels academically, fosters innovation, ensures transparency, and provides a supportive environment for staff and students alike.
Her vision encapsulates a blend of tradition and modernity, aiming to make the university a beacon of knowledge, research, and cultural enrichment in the region.