Idea of Kashmir’s First Crowdfunded University Solidifies Further As Project Leaders Formally Reach Out to J&K Government for Allocation of Land

Srinagar: In a groundbreaking move to transform higher education in Jammu & Kashmir, a visionary initiative has been launched to establish ‘The University of WathHarbor’, the region’s first crowdfunded university. Built entirely on public support, donations, and collective effort, this institution aims to be a university by the people, for the people, and of the people of J&K.

The University of WathHarbor will focus on cutting-edge disciplines such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, providing Kashmiri youth with skills that are highly relevant in the global job market. Unlike conventional private universities, this will not be a profit-driven venture. Instead, it will be a community-driven institution with a strong emphasis on education, research, and social upliftment.

At a press conference held in Srinagar, project leaders highlighted the urgent need for such an institution. With 150,000 students enrolled across 11 government universities, Jammu & Kashmir lacks private-sector participation in higher education. Every year, thousands of students leave the region to pursue higher studies elsewhere, creating both financial and emotional burdens for families. The University of WathHarbor seeks to reverse this trend by offering world-class education within the region, fostering academic excellence, and reducing the need for students to migrate outside J&K.

To make this vision a reality, the project’s founders have formally requested the Jammu & Kashmir Government to allocate 25 acres of land on a 99-year lease at a nominal fee, following policies already implemented in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. They have also urged the government to pass the Private University Act in J&K, which would provide the necessary legal framework for such institutions to operate effectively.

Funding for the university will come entirely from donations, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions, and community support. The founders have called on businesses, professionals, and the Kashmiri diaspora to contribute to this historic initiative.

Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi, the founder of the initiative, emphasized the broader significance of the project, stating, “This is not just about education; it is about self-reliance, empowerment, and shaping Kashmir’s future. We invite everyone to be part of this movement.”

The press conference saw the presence of several prominent individuals backing the initiative. Among them were Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi, the Founder and Chairman of the Trust; Dr. Mushtaq Marghoob, a former professor and head of the PG Department of Psychiatry at GMC; Syed Humayun Qaiser, former Director of Radio Kashmir and the spokesperson of the initiative; Zareef Ahmad Zareef, a well-known poet and social activist; Syed Parvez Qalander, a chartered engineer and consultant; Latief U Zaman Deva, a retired IAS officer and former chairperson of JKPSC; Khair Ul Nisa Sheikh, Executive Director of World Trade Center, India, and Principal Advisor to the Chairman; Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, a TV producer and filmmaker who serves as the media coordinator for the initiative; Riyaz Ahmad Shoga, an ex-banker and social worker; G N Var, President of the Private School Association; and artist Faheem Abdullah.

In addition to the board members, volunteers actively supporting the initiative were also present, including Dr. Iqbal Malik, Momin Iqbal, Farah Zaidee, Mahwash Masarat, Malik Abrar, and Aabid Ahmad Mir.

With strong public participation and government support, The University of WathHarbor aims to become a global hub for research, innovation, and skill development. Those interested in contributing or collaborating can visit www.uni4kashmir.com or reach out via kash2education@gmail.com / +91 9103585647. For media inquiries, contact Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, Media Coordinator, at +91 9906669999.