Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir, September 8, 2025: Shahida Khaliq, a dedicated librarian from Magam, Handwara, pursuing her Master’s degree, has made significant strides in promoting literacy and education by establishing two reading room-cum-libraries in the towns of Kupwara and Handwara. Her initiative, driven by a passion for community empowerment, aims to provide students and youth in these border districts with access to vital educational resources, fostering intellectual growth and academic opportunities.The libraries, set up in early 2023, offer free access to a diverse collection of books, including academic texts, competitive exam materials, English and Urdu literature, Islamic literature, and magazines. Shahida’s efforts address the critical lack of accessible reading spaces in Kupwara, a region where students often face challenges due to limited resources. Her initiative has been widely praised by local communities, educators, and students, who view the libraries as a beacon of hope for academic advancement and youth empowerment.
“Education is the key to transforming lives, and I wanted to create spaces where students can access knowledge freely,” Shahida said during the inauguration of the Handwara library at Sheikh Hafza Complex. The facilities are designed to support students preparing for competitive exams, pursuing higher education, or seeking personal development through reading. The libraries also serve as community hubs, encouraging a culture of learning and intellectual engagement.Local residents and students have expressed gratitude for Shahida’s efforts. “These libraries are a game-changer for us. We now have a place to study and access books we couldn’t afford,” said a student from Handwara. Community leaders have hailed Shahida as an inspiring figure, with social media platforms buzzing with appreciation for her dedication to education in Jammu and Kashmir.
Shahida’s initiative aligns with broader efforts in Kupwara to enhance educational infrastructure, complementing actions like those of other local youth, such as Mubashir Mushtaq, who established the “Let’s Talk Library” in Halmathpora to combat child labor and promote reading. Her libraries are part of a growing movement to address educational disparities in the region, supported by community donations and goodwill.The establishment of these libraries underscores the transformative power of grassroots initiatives in fostering education and empowering youth in remote areas. Shahida Khaliq’s work continues to inspire, setting a powerful example for others to contribute to societal development through education.
