Mebooba calls for revival of University Student Unions ‘IUST sets an example that should be emulated’

GNS Srinagar Dec : Welcoming the establishment of a students union in the Islamic university of Science and Technonogy, Awantipore (IUST) Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and leader of the opposition today called for revival of student bodies in all the universities of the state. In a statement here Mehbooba Mufti said the IUST had set a shining example of democratization of the campus activity and the state must take a cue from it to revive student unions in other universities as well.

 Mehbooba said the political system in the state has not benefited from the universities and institutions of higher learning as much as it should have and it was time that this deficiency is addressed. She said these institutions must serve as catchments for the political field as it serves other walks of life. “That objective can be achieved better by allowing unhindered student activity through their unions” she said.

The PDP president said future leaders have to be better equipped to shoulder the burden of a democratic system that has been struggling against heavy odds in the state. With corruption and criminalization corroding the soul of politics, it can only be fixed with active participation of the informed segments of society who pass out from universities and professional institutions of excellence. “But it is necessary that the establishment comes out of the mindset that aims at producing bookworms in preference to the young men and women who are oriented to take up the leadership role in various walks of life” she added.

Mehbooba said it was strange that our state does not allow student activity on the campus in spite of a very peaceful atmosphere and new creative processes taking shape there. “If the 18 year olds can be trusted with electing governments how is it that we lack confidence in university scholars to run institution level unions” Mehbooba asked while demanding a review of the present policy. She said the state must repose complete trust in its young citizens and encourage them for future leadership roles at different levels in various fields. “The nanny culture is not only outdated but is also counterproductive as it puts restrictions on the overall personality development of students” she said.