Civil Society Members Join Hands for Kashmir’s First Crowdfunded University
Srinagar 04 March 2025: In a historic move to transform higher education in Jammu and Kashmir, a group of civil society members have come together to establish the region’s first crowdfunded university. Named “The University of WathHarbor,” this unique initiative aims to provide cutting-edge education and empower the youth of Kashmir with skills for a competitive global job market.
A University by the People, for the People
Community-Driven Initiative: The University of WathHarbor is envisioned as a university “by the people, for the people, and of the people of J&K.” Unlike conventional private universities, this institution will be built entirely on public support, donations, and collective effort. The project leaders emphasized that this is not a profit-driven venture but a community-driven institution focused on education, research, and social upliftment.
Focus on Advanced Technologies: The university aims to provide cutting-edge education in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies. By equipping Kashmir’s youth with these skills, the university seeks to prepare them for a competitive global job market.
Addressing the Higher Education Gap
Current Scenario: Currently, Jammu and Kashmir have 150,000 students enrolled across 11 government universities but lack private sector involvement in higher education. Thousands of students leave J&K every year to pursue higher studies elsewhere. The University of WathHarbor aims to change this by offering world-class education within the region, reducing the need for students to migrate for better opportunities.
Government Support: To realize this vision, the project’s founders have requested the Jammu & Kashmir Government to allocate 25 acres of land on a 99-year lease at a nominal fee, following policies implemented in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. They have also called for the passage of the Private University Act in J&K to provide legal backing for such institutions.
Funding and Community Involvement
Crowdfunding and Donations: The university will be funded through public donations, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions, and community support. The founders have urged businesses, professionals, and the Kashmiri diaspora to contribute to this historic initiative.
Empowerment and Self-Reliance: Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi, the founder of the initiative, emphasized that this project is not just about education but also about self-reliance, empowerment, and shaping Kashmir’s future. “We invite everyone to be part of this movement,” he said.
Board Members and Visionaries
Distinguished Board Members: The board members of the initiative include notable figures such as Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi (Founder and Chairman of the Trust), Dr. Mushtaq Marghoob (Former Professor and Head of PG Department of Psychiatry, GMC), Syed Humayun Qaiser (Former Director, Radio Kashmir), Zareef Ah Zareef (Poet and Social Activist), Syed Parvez Qalander (Chartered Engineer), Latief U Zaman Deva (Retired IAS and Former Chairperson of JKPSC), Khair Ul Nisa Sheikh (Executive Director, World Trade Center, India), Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan (TV Producer and Filmmaker), Riyaz Ahmad Shoga (Ex Banker and Social Worker), G N Var (President Private School Association), and Faheem Abdullah (Artist).
Bottom-Line: A Vision for the Future
Transforming Higher Education: The establishment of The University of WathHarbor marks a significant step towards transforming higher education in Jammu and Kashmir. With strong public participation and government support, the university aims to become a global hub for research, innovation, and skill development.
Call to Action: The founders have called on the community to join hands and contribute to this historic initiative. “This is about empowerment and Kashmir’s future,” said Dr. Makhdoomi
