NCW, KU hold awareness programme on gender sensitisation and PoSH

Srinagar, May 19: The National Commission for Women (NCW) in collaboration with the Department of Students Welfare (DSW), University of Kashmir (KU) organised a day-long programme on “Gender Sensitisation and PoSH Awareness” at the varsity’s main campus.

A statement of KU issued here said that the programme aimed to create awareness about gender sensitivity, workplace dignity, and the provisions of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act, while encouraging a safe and inclusive environment for women in educational and professional spaces.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Acting Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof Mohiuddin Sangmi, said that educational institutions have a vital responsibility in promoting gender sensitivity, mutual respect and safe work environments.

Highlighting the varsity’s long-standing association with the National Commission for Women, he said that “the University of Kashmir has been consistently organising awareness and outreach programmes over the years on issues related to gender equality, women’s rights and social responsibility.”

Chairperson, NCW, Vijaya Rahatkar, in her keynote address, highlighted the importance of understanding laws and regulations related to the safety and protection of women in domestic and workplace settings. She also spoke about the contributions of many remarkable women from Kashmir who have played significant roles in shaping society through their courage, intellect and leadership.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Registrar KU, Prof Naseer Iqbal, said that awareness about legal safeguards and institutional mechanisms is essential for creating a secure and inclusive academic atmosphere.

The programme featured a technical session on “Working of the National Commission for Women” by Shri Shivam Garg, Media Advisor, NCW, who elaborated on the role and functioning of the Commission in addressing women-related issues across the country.

Another technical session on “Workshop on PoSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment)” was conducted by Tunika Sharma, Counsellor, NCW, who discussed the importance of Internal Committees (ICs) in institutions and workplaces and emphasized the need for timely reporting and redressal mechanisms. The sessions also included interactive discussions with the participants.

The programme was attended by faculty members, scholars and students from across the University campus.

The proceedings of the event were conducted by Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer, DSW KU, while the vote of thanks was presented by Shri Ramavatar Singh, Deputy Director, NCW.