Kashmir’s First Crowdfunded University Announced in Srinagar

Srinagar: In a groundbreaking move to transform higher education in Jammu & Kashmir, a visionary initiative to establish the region’s first crowdfunded university has been officially announced. Named The University of WathHarbor, the institution will be built entirely on public contributions, making it a university by the people, for the people, and of the people. The initiative aims to provide cutting-edge education in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, equipping Kashmiri youth with globally competitive skills.

At a press conference held in Srinagar, the project leaders emphasized that this will not be a profit-driven venture. Unlike conventional private universities, The University of WathHarbor will not be owned by individuals or corporations but will function as a community-driven institution, dedicated to education, research, and social upliftment. Jammu & Kashmir currently has 150,000 students enrolled across 11 government universities, yet the region lacks significant private sector involvement in higher education. Thousands of students leave J&K every year to pursue higher studies elsewhere. The establishment of this university aims to curb this outflow by offering world-class education within Kashmir.

To turn this vision into reality, the university’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 adopted 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.

The university will be financed through donations, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions, and community support. The founders have appealed to businesses, professionals, and the Kashmiri diaspora to contribute to this initiative. Calling for widespread participation, Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi, the founder of the initiative, stated, “This is not just about education; this is about self-reliance, empowerment, and shaping Kashmir’s future. We invite everyone to be part of this movement.”

With strong public support and government backing, The University of WathHarbor aspires to become a global hub for research, innovation, and skill development, marking a new era in Kashmir’s higher education landscape.