Empowering Women Leaders for a Developed India
In a significant move towards enhancing women’s roles in education, Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated a one-day workshop titled “Shaping Academic Excellence for VIKSIT Bharat @ 2047.” The event took place in New Delhi and was organized by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The workshop aimed to empower women leaders in academia and inspire them to take on leadership roles. Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Union Minister of State for Education, and several eminent dignitaries from various sectors were also present, highlighting the importance of women’s contributions to education and society.
The Vision of NEP 2020
During his address, Minister Pradhan emphasized the alignment of the workshop with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He underscored the policy’s focus on empowering women at all educational levels. The workshop serves as a platform to showcase how women are elevating educational standards in higher education. It aims to equip and inspire women to take on leadership roles, thereby contributing to the nation’s development.
Pradhan articulated that “Nari Shakti” symbolizes strength, resilience, and hope. He stressed that respecting women is a core value of Indian civilization. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for leading transformative changes over the past decade, shifting the focus from women’s development to women-led development. This shift is crucial as it recognizes women’s potential to lead and innovate in various fields, including education.
The Minister also pointed out that the emerging global landscape will be driven by knowledge. Women are increasingly breaking glass ceilings and challenging traditional gender roles. Their participation in all spheres, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), is on the rise. Pradhan believes that the discussions and experiences shared during the workshop will pave the way for establishing a level playing field for women in all sectors.
A Roadmap for Women’s Empowerment
Shri Pradhan emphasized the need for an Indian model of women empowerment. This model should ensure that women are included in all decision-making structures and have the freedom to make life choices. As India moves towards the goal of Viksit Bharat, he envisions a future where women take on more decision-making roles. He firmly believes that the empowerment and equality of women are essential for the progress of society and the nation as a whole.
Dr. Sukanta Majumdar echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of women in leadership roles within education. He paid homage to historical figures like Maitreyi and Gargi, as well as contemporary scientists such as Dr. Soumya Swaminathan. Majumdar noted that women leaders are pivotal in shaping academic excellence and contributing to nation-building. He pointed out the impressive Gross Enrolment Ratio of women in education, which is expected to rise further.
Initiatives like PM-USHA, WISE-KIRAN, and DIKSHA are crucial for promoting gender inclusivity in educational policies. These programs empower women to excel in academia and research. Majumdar likened society to a bird, emphasizing the need to strengthen both its wings—men and women—for holistic development and to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The Role of Diversity in Leadership
Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Education, highlighted the significance of diversity in cultivating leadership. He stressed the need for more women in leadership roles across various sectors, particularly in the sciences. Kumar noted that India has seen a remarkable increase in women’s participation in STEM education. However, he emphasized that this achievement must be supported by robust policies to ensure its sustainability.
Reiterating Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a developed India, Kumar expressed confidence that Indian women will play a crucial role in this transformation. The workshop featured eminent personalities who engaged with participants, sharing insights on critical topics related to women in leadership. Notable speakers included Smt. Lakshmi Iyer from Larsen & Toubro, Smt. Vandana Bhatnagar from IIM Jammu, and Dr. Rajalakshmi Menon from DRDO, among others.
These discussions aimed to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities women face in leadership roles. By creating mentoring and networking platforms, the workshop sought to empower women to take charge of their careers and contribute meaningfully to society. The collective efforts of these leaders aim to inspire a new generation of women who will shape the future of India.
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