Bilal Bashir Bhat
Heralding a new era of gender equality, Professor (Dr.) Tehmina Yousuf has recently assumed the role of Principal at Islamia College of Science and Commerce in Srinagar. This appointment follows the landmark achievement in 2022 when Professor Nilofer Khan was named the first female Vice-Chancellor of Kashmir University by the LG Administration. Professor Khan’s leadership has been instrumental in promoting gender equality and setting a powerful example for educational institutions.
The appointments of the first female principal at Islamia College and the first female Vice-Chancellor at Kashmir University mark significant milestones in the journey toward gender inclusivity in Kashmir’s educational institutions. These historic achievements set a powerful precedent, highlighting the evolving mindset towards gender roles and the increasing opportunities for women in leadership positions.
“The appointments of Tehmina Yousuf and Professor Nilofer Khan are not just individual achievements but represent a broader shift towards recognizing and valuing the contributions of women in academia. These leaders are setting a precedent for future generations,” said Professor Tariq Ahmed, a fellow academic, in an interview with Onlykashmir.in.
Beyond the educational front, Jammu and Kashmir have seen significant strides in female leadership across various sectors. Nuzhat Gull became the first female sports secretary of J&K, BJP leader Dr. Darakshan Andrabi now heads the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, and the Jammu & Kashmir Hajj Committee is led by Safina Baig. These appointments reflect the growing recognition and empowerment of women in the region.
