Onlykashmir News Desk
SKUAST K Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship Centre (SKIE) Shalimar in collaboration with Agri Industries Vikas Chamber (AIVC) organized first of its kind conference for women entrepreneurs at SKUAST Kashmir Shalimar main campus, marking a significant milestone in the region’s entrepreneurial landscape.
The inaugural program brings together a diverse gamut of theme-specific professionals, budding startups, and young minds to celebrate the spirit of women’s entrepreneurship and empowerment.
The program was chaired by Dr. Hina Shafi, Chairperson, J&K Khadi and Village Industries Board as Chief Guest and Prof. Nazir A Ganai, Hon. Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K as a guest of honor in presence of Dr. Mehjabeen Nabi, Director Care Foundation, Prof Haroon R Naik, Director Research and P&M, Dr T.H Masoodi, Registrar SKUAST-K, Dr Azmat A Khan, OSD to VC SKUAST-K and Dr. Naveed Hameed, Chief Executive officer SKIIE Centre.
Speaking at the inaugural, Prof. Nazir A Ganai stressed on bringing change in society through Innovation and Entrepreneurship. He further added that women are change-makers who can drive us towards mission of VIKSIT J&K.
Chief Guest, Dr Hina Shafi highlighted the role of Khadi and Village in fostering the sense of empowerment among women folk. She appreciated the efforts of organizers, and complimented many young female faces in the conference who were doing wonders in business and acted as the benchmark to others.
Dr. Mehjabeen Nabi, Director of Care Foundation in her address stated “Women empowerment is vital for achieving gender equality, enabling women to have control over their lives and contribute to society. It involves providing equal opportunities in education, employment, and decision-making processes. Empowered women foster economic growth, social development, and the overall well-being of communities.”
The inaugural function also included honoring of two physically challenged but professionally empowered girls (Ms. Insha and Ms Nusrat) who act as role models to society with respect to women empowerment.
A highlight of the event was the showcase of various women-led startups, where these innovative entrepreneurs displayed their products and shared their entrepreneurial journey with the audience. This platform provided an excellent opportunity for these women to network, gain exposure, and seek potential collaborations.
Dr. Manoj and Dr. Bindu Singh, Directors of Agri Vikas Chamber, also delivered inspiring speeches on the significance of women empowerment and the role of organizations like AVC in supporting aspiring women entrepreneurs.
Dr. Touseef Ahmed, a renowned mentor to numerous startups, emphasized the need for creating platforms that enable and encourage women entrepreneurs from across the country to showcase their talents and businesses. His words resonated with the audience, offering valuable guidance and encouragement to the attendees.
The Udaan Women Empowering Event at SKUAST Srinagar served as a platform for fostering a supportive ecosystem for women entrepreneurs, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities necessary to thrive in the competitive business landscape.
