Baramulla, Dec 04: To enhance scientific understanding and promote awareness about chromosomal disorders, the Department of Zoology and the Department of Biotechnology, Government Degree College (GDC) Baramulla, in collaboration with the Centre for Advanced Human Genetics, SKIMS Soura, organized a special lecture on ‘Down Syndrome and its Prevention’ on Thursday. The session focused on the genetic basis, clinical features, early diagnosis, and preventive measures associated with the condition.
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Jehangir Shafi, Assistant Professor, who highlighted the importance of genetic awareness in modern healthcare and stressed the need for young students to understand disorders such as Down Syndrome.
Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo, Staff Secretary, also spoke on the occasion and presented a memento to the guest speaker as a gesture of appreciation.
Prof. Robina Kousar, Head of the Department of Zoology, along with other faculty members, welcomed the guest speaker, Dr. Mahrukh Hameed Zargar, Additional Professor at the Advanced Centre for Human Genetics, SKIMS Soura.
In her lecture, Dr. Zargar explained the genetic causes of Down Syndrome, including Trisomy 21 due to nondisjunction, translocation, and mosaicism, and elaborated on the associated clinical symptoms, developmental challenges, and lifelong care needs. She emphasized the importance of prenatal screening, early diagnosis, and community-level sensitization as essential steps toward prevention and social acceptance.
The session concluded with an interactive question–answer segment during which students and faculty members discussed scientific, medical, and ethical aspects of the disorder with the expert. Dr. Ishfaq Ahmad Ganaie from the Department of Biotechnology delivered the vote of thanks.
The whole event was coordinated by Prof. Robina Kousar, Head of the Department of Zoology of this college.
The college administration noted that the programme successfully enhanced students’ awareness about chromosomal abnormalities and reinforced the importance of supporting individuals with Down Syndrome with sensitivity and informed understanding.
