Prof. H.C. Verma Inspires Kashmir Students at SSM Srinagar with Powerful Message on Real Education and Purpose
“True Education Guides You to Your Purpose, Ask Yourself—What Do You Truly Want from Life?”: Prof. H.C. Verma Inspires Students at SSM Higher Secondary School, Srinagar
“When Great Educators Sit Among Learners, It Becomes a Real Center of Knowledge”: G.N. Var on Prof. H.C. Verma’s Visit to the Valley
“Hosting Prof. Verma Was a Dream Realized,” Says Dr. Saddam on Welcoming the Renowned Physicist
Srinagar, May 5, 2025 – SSM Higher Secondary School, Soiteng Lasjan, Srinagar, recently hosted a remarkable educational event that united leading minds from the world of science and academia. Organized in loving memory of the school’s late founder, Haji Ghulam Nabi Parray Sahab, the event featured Padma Shri awardee and distinguished physicist, Prof. H.C. Verma (Emeritus, IIT Kanpur), as the chief guest. The program was held in collaboration with the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT) and the JK Science Communicator Network.
Prominent educational leaders attended, including G.N. Var (President, PSAJK), Dr. Saddam (Chairman, SKIE Classes), Syed Ishtiyaq (Secretary, JK Science Communicator Network), Altaf Nabi Parray (Chairman, SSM HSS), Mohammad Maqbool Bhat (Principal), and Riyaz Parray (Administrative Officer). The gathering also saw enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, and educational stakeholders.
The event was formally inaugurated by Iram Altaf, Vice Principal, who delivered a heartfelt welcome. Prof. Verma was honored with a shawl and a bouquet in appreciation of his contributions to education. “It was an unforgettable moment for our institution,” Iram said. “Prof. Verma’s insights gave our students a fresh lens through which to view science, success, and purpose. This gathering also reaffirmed our commitment to the legacy of our founder.”
In his keynote, Prof. Verma shared his work with “Shiksha Sopan,” an educational initiative that has flourished over 25 years. Operating from a humble setup in Kanpur without basic utilities like piped water or stable electricity, the program today serves underprivileged students from grades 6 to post-graduation, offering free education, science labs, and various developmental activities.
IIT Kanpur students volunteer for the initiative, and scholarships are provided to help families in need. “Even a small scholarship can prevent a student—especially girls—from discontinuing education,” he noted.
He stressed that learning through Shiksha Sopan is completely free: “We never charge for education, meals, or even training for teachers. We believe learning must remain pure—never a commercial transaction.”
Prof. Verma voiced concern about the narrow career focus he observed among Kashmiri students. “When I ask students here about their goals, most respond with just one word: NEET. Are we producing only doctors? What about engineers, scientists, teachers, innovators?” he asked. “Education should be about exploring life and serving society—not just chasing degrees.”
He concluded, “We must guide students to ask deeper questions: What do I truly want from life? Is it only about a job, or something more meaningful? That’s the essence of true education—to help students discover purpose and passion.”
G.N. Var, PSAJK President, called the moment “historic.” He said, “When professors like H.C. Verma interact directly with students, it transforms classrooms into spaces of real learning. Today is a proud moment for us all.”
He acknowledged Dr. Saddam for his courageous step in launching his own educational venture after leaving a government job. “While many institutions have commercialized education, people like Dr. Saddam have preserved its humanity. This is what makes a real educator.”
Dr. Saddam, Chairman of SKIE Classes, shared his emotional journey. “In 2002, every competitive exam aspirant depended on Prof. Verma’s Concepts of Physics. I myself was intimidated by physics until his book gave me clarity and confidence.”
“To see him addressing our students today is beyond imagination. His visit is not only a personal milestone but a blessing for our entire academic community,” he added.
Dr. Saddam reflected on Prof. Verma’s broader message: “He reminded us that cleanliness and discipline are reflections of inner character. His words echoed our own values—that cleanliness is half of faith.”
Principal Mohammad Maqbool Bhat honored the late founder of SSM Higher Secondary School, Haji Ghulam Nabi Parray Sahab, noting that he built the institution in 1993 with no financial backing, driven purely by vision and dedication. “He never charged a single student, many of whom came from underprivileged backgrounds,” Bhat said. “Today, his students are making valuable contributions across various sectors.”
The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing academic excellence. Top-performing students from Class 10 and Class 12 (Session 2025) were felicitated for their achievements across Commerce, Arts, Medical, and other streams.
The program marked a significant moment in SSM Higher Secondary School’s journey, combining inspiration, academic recognition, and a renewed commitment to nurturing curiosity and integrity in young learners. The school affirmed its intention to continue organizing meaningful events that ignite a passion for knowledge and purpose among students.
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