Kargil, Aug 29: A ten-day Research Methodology Course (RMC), sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Ministry of Education, Government of India, inaugurated at Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh (UoL) here today.
This significant workshop, jointly organized by the Departments of Geography and Sociology, University of Ladakh is centered around the theme “Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods in Social Sciences.”
The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Vice Chancellor Prof. S.K. Mehta, who attended online as the chief guest, along with Registrar, Nawang Tundup, serving as the guest of honor. Dr. Firdous Ahmad Sofal, Senior Assistant Professor at the Central University of Kashmir, was the special guest.
Among other dignitaries present were Dr. Mehboob Ali, Incharge Administration at Kargil Campus, UoL; Dr. Jaffar Ali Khan, Dean Faculty of Arts; and Dr. Mohd Taqi, the Course Director of the workshop.
The workshop began with a traditional khatak ceremony, a revered cultural gesture symbolizing respect and hospitality, during which Dr. Mohd Taqi ceremoniously presented khataks to the esteemed guests.
In his keynote address, Prof. S.K. Mehta extended a warm welcome to all guest speakers, faculty members, and participants representing various universities across India. He congratulated the Departments of Geography and Sociology for their successful organization of this important workshop. He expressed hope that the technical sessions and the valuable inputs provided would significantly enhance the knowledge and skills of the participating scholars.
Earlier, the ceremony commenced with a formal welcome address delivered by Dr. Mehboob Ali. He emphasized the crucial role that workshops and academic programs play in the intellectual growth and development of universities.
Following this, Dr. Mohd Taqi, the Course Director, presented an introduction and briefing on the Research Methodology Course (RMC). He warmly welcomed all participants and guests, explaining that the ten-day workshop has been meticulously designed to cater to the needs of research scholars, offering a comprehensive understanding of research methodologies ranging from foundational to advanced levels.
Dr. Taqi elaborated on the workshop’s focus on interdisciplinary knowledge exchange within the social sciences, emphasizing the importance offield-based training and the application of theoretical concepts.
Dr. Jaffar Ali Khan, in his inaugural address, extended a warm welcome to all participants, guests, and faculty members. He emphasized that the workshop is designed to be a comprehensive and enriching experience for both scholars and faculty, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical fieldwork.
The special guest of the occasion, Dr. Firdous Ahmad Sofal delivered an insightful address, remarking on the fundamental purpose of education as a tool to eliminate ambiguities in life. Drawing on the themes explored in the book “Future Shock,” Dr. Sofal discussed the critical importance of quality education and robust research methodologies. He advocated for the development of Indian methodologies in social sciences, distinguishing between ritualistic research and genuine, impactful research.
The inaugural session concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Kacho Amir Khan, Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography. He expressed special gratitude to Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, UOL, Prof. S.K. Mehta, for honoring the event with his presence, albeit online.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Khan conveyed sincere thanks on behalf of the Departments of Geography and Sociology to everyone who attended the inaugural ceremony, acknowledging the efforts of those who travelled from various parts of the country to participate in this workshop.
