Bilal Bashir Bhat, Onlykashmir.in
The oft-repeated phrase “Girls outshine boys in 10th and 12th exams” has become a familiar refrain in Kashmir’s educational scenario. But this week, at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), the narrative found powerful affirmation during the university’s 6th Annual Convocation Ceremony.
The convocation turned into a celebration of women’s academic excellence, as an overwhelming majority of accolades were claimed by female students. Out of 150 gold medals awarded for academic distinction, 115 were conferred upon women.
Similarly, out of 445 Certificates of Merit distributed, 334 went to girls, underscoring the sustained academic ascendancy of female students in Kashmir.
The event, held at the university campus, was presided over by Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, who is also the Chancellor of SKUAST-K.
Commending the stellar performance of women students, he stated, “Proud to see our daughters breaking barriers and achieving success in Agricultural Science and Technology.”
He further noted that out of the total 5,250 degrees awarded, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral , 2,661 were conferred upon women scholars, a development he called “a sign of a bright future for Jammu & Kashmir and the nation.”
The convocation was graced by Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who served as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, the Pro-Chancellor of SKUAST-K and Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, delivered an impassioned message to the young graduates: “Help us shape this new story — not through slogans, but through service. Not through entitlement, but through excellence. As you rise, let others rise with you. Whether you go to Bengaluru or Berlin, carry J&K in your heart.”
Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai presented the university report, outlining the institution’s achievements in academics, research, and outreach. He highlighted SKUAST-K’s rising national rankings and its role in transforming Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural landscape.
The convocation not only marked an academic milestone but also reflected a broader societal transformation, a generation of Kashmiri women steadily advancing into sectors historically dominated by men. As applause echoed through the halls, one message resonated clearly: the daughters of Kashmir are not just topping charts, they are reshaping the future.
