Ganderbal, May 30: Central University of Kashmir (CUK) Vice-Chancellor, Prof A Ravinder Nath, Thursday described education as the cornerstone for women empowerment in the country and said the varsity is playing a pivotal role in empowering women through innovative and inclusive programmes designed to promote gender equity, equality, leadership, and professional development.
“By educating women, we not only uplift individuals, but also strengthen communities and the nation at large. Education is a powerful tool for social and economic empowerment and in India, where societal norms have historically restricted women’s opportunities, education serves as a beacon of hope and progress,” Prof Ravinder Nath said in his presidential address during the culmination programme in connection with the celebration of International Women’s Day-2024 also marking the completion of 15-years of the Central University of Kashmir.
University of Kashmir, Vice-Chancellor, Prof Nilofar Khan, BOPEE, Chairperson, Dr Minu Mahajan, Head Mahaveer Institute and Emeritus Scientist, Dr Kaiser Jamil, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof Shahid Rasool, Chairperson, ICC and IWC, and Dean School of Languages, Prof Sandhya Tiwari, female students, faculty members and administrative staff were present.
The university, earlier, organised several programmes from the last few weeks to commemorate the International Women’s Day.
CUK VC described women as an embodiment of love and affection and underscored the need of creating a culture where women are respected, valued, and given equal opportunities to thrive in all spheres of life.
Addressing the gathering, KU Vice-Chancellor said that in the realm of administration, women continue to make significant strides, despite facing persistent challenges in proving themselves and achieving leadership positions. “Women in administrative roles often face challenges. Understanding and addressing these obstacles is crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where women can thrive as leaders,” she said and hailed CUK for organising such programmes for empowering the girl students and faculty members.
In her speech, BOPEE, Chairperson, Dr Minu Mahajan, said the women have been endowed with intrinsic strength and capabilities by God, and it is imperative for society to acknowledge and respect this divine empowerment. “From time immemorial, women have been endowed with unique strengths, wisdom, and resilience. This divine empowerment is evident in the various roles women play as nurturers, leaders, innovators, and changemakers,” she added.
Sharing the success stories of Malala Yousafzai and other women role models, Head Mahaveer Institute and Emeritus Scientist, Dr Kaiser Jamil, said, Malala Yousafzai serves as an inspiration to countless girls as she showcases how education can transform lives. “By continuing to invest in and prioritize education for women, we pave the way for a more equitable, prosperous, and progressive society. Let us all join hands to ensure that every girl and woman in India has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.”
Chairperson, ICC and IWC, and Dean School of Languages, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, in her presentation, detailed about various programmes organised by the university in connection with the commemoration celebrations. She said the girl students from all the teaching departments overwhelmingly participated in these events and showcased their hidden talent. Prof. Tiwari, said the challenges and difficulties faced by the women in different fields won’t deter them from pursuing and achieving their goals.
The dignitaries later distributed certificates and other prizes among the students who secured positions in the programmes organised. The prize distribution was facilitated by Assistant Prof Deptt of Politics and Governance, Dr Himabindu and Assistant Prof Deptt of Law, Ms Kinjal.
Earlier, Assistant Prof Deptt of English, Dr Ishrat Bashir, in her welcome address, said that women contribute significantly to families, communities, and nations through their roles in education, healthcare, governance, business, and numerous other fields and their contributions must be valued and celebrated.
Assistant Prof Deptt of Law, Dr Gulafroz Jan conducted the programme proceedings and Asst Prof Deptt of Management Studies, Dr Mir Insha Farooq proposed the vote of thanks.
The students later enthralled the audience with various cultural programmes.