The Institute of Kashmir Studies (IKS) was established in 1986 as a research institute at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad. Since its foundation, the IKS has worked to enhance research and development in the field of Kashmir Studies. In 2008, a postgraduate degree program was introduced to explore and promote various dimensions of Kashmir.
The IKS hosts a close-knit community of interdisciplinary scholars with expertise in the languages, literatures, histories, archaeology, cultures, art, and crafts of Kashmir. The institute takes pride in addressing diverse research and learning needs. To further promote teaching and research excellence, qualified permanent faculty members have recently been inducted.
Committed to ensuring quality teaching and research in various areas of Kashmir Studies, the IKS meets all educational standards of the Higher Education Commission (HEC). Its mission is to produce academically competent scholars capable of addressing present-day societal challenges and contributing as responsible citizens. To achieve this, the IKS is dedicated to enhancing students’ professional skills and career opportunities.
The IKS organizes various activities, including cultural events, workshops, conferences, public lectures, and programs that promote understanding of the cultures and societies of Gilgit-Baltistan, Indian Occupied Kashmir, and Azad Kashmir — regions comprising the former State of Jammu and Kashmir. Regular study tours and visits expose students and faculty to national and international conferences and seminars on contemporary issues. These co-curricular activities foster innovative learning and interdisciplinary understanding.
The institute is among the most active and the only full-fledged academic institution in the State of Azad Jammu and Kashmir offering M.Sc. and M.Phil. programs in Kashmir Studies.
Students are assessed through assignments, presentations, quizzes, and oral and written examinations.
The program offers strong career prospects, enabling graduates to pursue roles in the Kashmir Liberation Cell, AJK Tourism and Forest Department, Kashmir Cultural Academy, NGOs, political and religious organizations, hotel industry, foreign embassies, educational institutions, and higher studies in fields such as Civil Services, South Asian Studies, and Regional Studies. The institute plays a vital role in producing trained and competitive educators for institutional development.
The IKS has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (TUFS), Japan. Under this MoU, both institutions collaborate on joint research projects. Through a video conferencing system, IKS students can attend online lectures. Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive certificates from TUFS, Japan.
An international conference titled “Kashmir in Emerging Global Perspective” was held on May 23–24, 2011, at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir in collaboration with the Department of English. Over 400 delegates, including renowned academics, scholars, journalists, and socio-political activists, participated. Around 100 researchers presented papers during the event.
Seminars at the IKS are designed to enhance student learning and reflection on the value and purpose of university education, while fostering strategies for lifelong learning. The institute has conducted various seminars based on students’ academic needs. Esteemed personalities have visited the IKS and shared insights on diverse topics related to Kashmir, significantly contributing to students’ analytical and personal development.
Phone: +92-5822-960486
Email: kashmir.studies@ajku.edu.pk