Srinagar, October 11, 2024:
The first-ever Deans’ Conclave was hosted today at SKIMS under the leadership of Director SKIMS & Ex-Officio Secretary to Government Dr. Mohammad Ashraf Ganie. This landmark event convened former Deans of the Medical Faculty at SKIMS alongside Deans from various government medical colleges and universities across Jammu and Kashmir. The Deans’ Conclave is the third programme in tandem by SKIMS administration with the directions to improve academic and administrative trajectory. Earlier programs included the Director’s Conclave, which engaged former Directors starting from Dr. A.K. Nagpal, to discuss the future trajectory of SKIMS, and the Principal’s Conclave, which involved Principals from all medical, Dental, and Unani colleges in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. These forums focused on revitalizing academics and research while ensuring quality patient care.
The Administrative Secretary for Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Prof. Kaushal K Verma, Dean of Academics at All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi, was also present as a special guest. The event proceeded with an interactive session which was moderated by Dean Medical Faculty SKIMS, Dr. Shariq Masoodi, facilitating a dynamic and engaging discussion.
The interactive session aimed to gather medical experts to discuss strategies for improving the functioning of SKIMS Deemed University. Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah emphasized the importance of ethical practices by medical practitioners and called for a curriculum revision focused on mentorship. He also highlighted the need for knowledge and skill upgradation and encouraged research prioritization with a focus on social applicability. The interactive session aimed to gather insights from medical experts on strategies to enhance the functioning of SKIMS Deemed University. Prof. Shah underscored the necessity for ethical practices among medical practitioners and called for a curriculum overhaul emphasizing mentorship. He also highlighted the importance of continual knowledge and skill upgrades and encouraged prioritizing research with real-world applications. Prof. Kaushal K. Verma shared valuable insights on emerging trends, research and innovation, faculty recruitment and retention, and student welfare and support. He stressed the importance of addressing these areas to strengthen SKIMS University, advocating for greater operational autonomy to align with the vision of AIIMS New Delhi.
Prof. Ganie acknowledged the invaluable contributions of former Deans in shaping SKIMS into a premier institution. He outlined ongoing initiatives in academics, research, and patient care aimed at elevating SKIMS to a fully-fledged university status. He highlighted the establishment of collaborative programs and partnerships with national and international institutions. These collaborations aim to drive impactful research that not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also addresses local and global health challenges. The focus is on translating research findings into practical applications that can improve patient outcomes and community health.
Former Deans, including Prof. M. S Khuroo, Prof. Mehrajuddin, Prof. Mohd. Afzal Wani, Professor Altaf Kirmani, Prof. Omar Javed Shah, Prof. Azra Shah, Prof.Tariq Gonwari, Prof. Imtiyaz Ali, Prof. Shahid Rasool, Prof. Haroon R. Naik, Prof. Iffat H Shah, and heads of various departments at SKIMS, shared their experiences and offered valuable suggestions for improving the university.
The Deans’ Conclave served as a vital platform for open dialogue and exchange of innovative ideas. The insights gathered will inform the development of comprehensive policies aimed at enhancing medical education, patient care, and the overall academic environment at SKIMS University. The event was coordinated by Prof. Jaswinder, Faculty Secretary to the Director, Prof. Muzaffar M Wani, Executive Secretary of the Faculty Forum, Prof. M. Iqbal Lone, Program Coordinator, and Prof. Qazi Rasool, Registrar Academics and Controller of Examinations. The Deans and previous director’s conclave’s represents a strategic roadmap of SKIMS future.
Issued through the PR Office, SKIMS