Srinagar May 07 (KNS): Soroptimist International Kashmir (proposed), a global volunteer organisation, held a one-day Awareness and Orientation programme on "Equity Through Economic Empowerment" at Srinagar's Government College for Women, Nawakadal. The event aimed to emphasize the importance of developing financial literacy among young women and provided a forum for participants to discuss various aspects of functional financial literacy and its role in creating a more equitable economy for all. The President of Soroptimist International (SI) Kashmir Chapter, Prof. Parveen Pandit, presided over the event, along with Ms. Masarat Tasleem and Principal Government degree college, Nawa Kadal, Professor Neelofar Bhat. The speakers on the occasion included Dr. Mantasha binti Rashid, Mr. Eijaz Ayub, Ms. Rifat Indrabi, Dr. Sheikh Arshid, Dr. Mir Insha Farooq.
At the onset, Ms Gulafroz Jan introduced the Soroptimist International, its vision and objective, the necessity of fostering gender parity, and the organization's dedication to assisting women with the education, job growth, and economic independence. Dr. Mantasha binti Rashid emphasised the importance of distinguishing between equity and equality by using contemporary examples. 'Personal financial and money management are important', stressed Mr. Eijaz Ayub. He discussed many investment choices, such as mutual funds, fixed deposits, and small enterprises, emphasising the need of saving and investing for the future. Ms. Rifat Andrabi highlighted the professional prospects available in the banking sector and encouraged young women to pursue their aspirations without fear and strive to achieve financial independence. Dr. Sheikh Arshid spoke about the promotion of gender equality in Islam, women's equal rights in Islam, but the society's failure to recognise them. Dr. Mir Insha Farooq discussed the economic development of nations, including the notion of gross domestic product, the limited choices of women, and the need for women to be daring in their pursuit of empowerment. Dr. Parveen Pandit captivated the audience by emphasising the importance of taking action to promote economic empowerment for women while emphasising disparities and gender inequalities in education, jobs, population, and knowledge. She spoke on the importance of gender equality and parity, and she ended her address with a beautiful poetry in English that she translated into Kashmiri to inspire women to pursue progress. The event was attended by more than 100 women participants and the faculties of the Institution.
Ms. Gulafroz Jan conducted the program & Dr. Asma Bashir presented the vote of thanks. Ms Zainab (communication officer) was the rapporteur.(KNS)