Srinagar- The Department of Economics, University of Kashmir (KU), on Monday inaugurated EconFest 2025, a week-long academic festival celebrating research, innovation, and policy dialogue in economics and allied disciplines.
Held at the university's main campus from November 11 to 15, the festival aims to foster collaboration among scholars, policymakers, alumni, and students through academic sessions, exhibitions, lectures, and creative engagements.
Inaugurating the event, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan said the festival reflects KU's commitment to creating an academic environment where research informs policy and young minds engage with real-world economic challenges.
"We are proud to host a platform that not only celebrates economic scholarship but also connects our scholars, alumni, and experts with the developmental priorities of our region and country," Prof. Khan said.
Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada said initiatives like EconFest strengthen the research culture and interdisciplinary collaboration within the university.
Dean Research Prof. Mohammad Sultan Bhat noted that the event offers a valuable opportunity for students and faculty to explore innovative ideas and policy solutions for sustainable growth.
Dean, School of Business Studies Prof. Mushtaq Darzi underlined the need to link academic research with real economic issues to promote evidence-based policymaking.
Welcoming the participants, Head of the Department of Economics Prof. Effat Yasmin said EconFest 2025 represents the department's vision to build strong academic networks and inspire young economists to contribute meaningfully to regional and national development.
The festival's highlights include an alumni meet, a high-level panel discussion on the economy of Kashmir, the Annual Economics Lecture by eminent economist Prof. Farzana Afridi (ISI New Delhi), the 9th Annual CECFEE Research and Policy Workshop, a painting competition on shrinking wetlands, entrepreneurial exhibitions, and capacity-building workshops for young researchers.
The inaugural session was conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Mariam and Dr. Rahul Kundal, faculty members of the Department of Economics, while the vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Javaid Iqbal, organising secretary of EconFest 2025.
Prominent alumni, faculty members, scholars, and students attended the opening ceremony, during which several distinguished alumni were felicitated for their contributions to the department's legacy of scholarship and research.