Awantipora, April 28: Islamic University of Science and Technology inaugurated a week-long “Training of Trainers” programme aimed at advancing expertise in Optical Fibre Communication technologies. The programme, organized by the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering in collaboration with the Kalam Academy of Skill and Training (KAST), was formally launched by Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor.
The intensive skilling initiative is designed to upskill trainers and professionals in crucial areas such as fusion splicing mastery, advanced connectorization and termination techniques, setup and management of Optical Distribution Frames (ODFs), patching methodologies, and various other critical domains of optical fibre technology. Eminent external experts from academia and industry will deliver hands-on sessions and lectures throughout the week, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
In his inaugural address, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo underlined IUST’s strategic vision of transitioning into a Skill, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship-oriented university, aligning with the evolving needs of the global economy. He said that there is an ever-growing demand for highly skilled human resources in emerging sectors, and IUST is proactively responding to this challenge. By establishing Centres of Excellence such as C4I4 (Centre for Industry 4.0), with support from the Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India, we are preparing our students and professionals to contribute effectively to the capital goods industry.
Prof. Romshoo further highlighted the achievements of the Kalam Academy of Skill and Training, under which over 4000 youth have been trained in 32 job roles across six sector councils. He stressed the importance of fostering innovation from early stages of education, urging faculty members and researchers to integrate undergraduate and postgraduate students into live research projects. If we aspire to compete globally, we must identify and nurture talent early, involve students in innovation ecosystems, and encourage the development of cutting-edge technologies, he asserted.
Speaking at the event, Prof. A. H. Moon emphasized the university’s commitment to making skill development accessible to all, highlighting the innovative “Skilling on Wheels” initiative. This outreach programme brings skill courses directly to schools and colleges across the region, offering on-site training in emerging technologies. He said that our aim is to familiarize students with the latest advancements, nurture curiosity, and instill a passion for innovation from a young age.
Dr. Kaiser Javid Giri, Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology (SoET), elaborated on IUST’s broader mission to create a strong skilling ecosystem that complements academic education with industry-relevant competencies. He emphasized the university’s role as a critical driver in bridging the gap between education and employability.
Dr. Faroze Ahmad, Head of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering and the convenor of the programme, thanked the participating experts and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to delivering high-quality training and capacity-building programmes.
The Training Programme is being coordinated by Dr. Zahid Gulzar Khaki, along with his team comprising Dr. Liyaqat Nazir (Coordinator, KAST) and Dr. Aasif Bashir Dar. The proceedings of the inaugural session were moderated by Dr. Shaiqa Nasreen, while the formal vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Asifa Mehraj Baba, Dean of Students. The “Training of Trainers” programme marks a significant step by IUST in building a vibrant, future-ready workforce equipped to meet the demands of the optical communication and broader telecommunications sectors.
