Ganderbal, Sept 22: Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), in collaboration with the Schumacher Society, New Delhi, began a three-day training programme on “Women’s Leadership: Build Leadership – Acquire Skills, Overcome Challenges” at Tulmulla Campus here on Tuesday.
The programme, according to the organizers, aims to strengthen the leadership skills of women and help them develop the confidence and capacity to take up greater responsibilities in their organizations and communities.
Addressing the participants comprising faculty members, scholars and students, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, emphasized the need for greater representation of women in leadership and decision-making. He said that while men and women were equal, their representation in different spheres was not always equal. He noted that women were contributing actively in different areas, but their representation and recognition did not always correspond to their contribution. He stressed the importance of ensuring equality and fairness at different levels and said that women’s leadership should not be limited to any particular sector.
Speaking on the occasion, Registrar, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, said the leadership programmes were important because societies were constantly changing and needed people who could act as agents of positive change. He called for greater introspection on the reasons for the limited participation of women in leadership positions and said that women needed to believe in themselves, acquire knowledge and come forward to participate actively. “Believe in yourself, learn and then again participate,” Dr. Mir told the participants, urging them to make full use of the opportunity provided by the training programme.
Chairman, Schumacher Society, New Delhi, Prof. D.K. Giri spoke on the concept of leadership and the need to understand leadership as a means of bringing about positive change. He highlighted the changing nature of society and the importance of developing individuals who can respond to such changes and guide others. He said that leadership was not simply about holding a position but about developing the ability to influence, inspire and work with others to bring meaningful change.
Director, Schumacher Society, New Delhi, Dr. Susan Cherian, highlighted the importance of developing women leaders who could understand the challenges before them and work towards overcoming these challenges. She said the training was designed not merely to provide leadership skills but also to help participants understand the social, cultural and institutional factors that can affect women’s participation in leadership.
Sr Asst Prof. Dr Mir Insha proposed the vote of thanks. Ms. Manveen Kaur conducted the programme.