Watch the recording for the webinar titled “Empowering Women: Bridging Gender Gaps for a Brighter Future,” hosted by Guru Nanak Dev Global University. This engaging virtual event aims to showcase inspiring initiatives, partnerships, and success stories that promote gender equality, bridge gender gaps, and empower women to reach their full potential. With a strong commitment to fostering a more inclusive society, the webinar will shed light on the university’s dedicated efforts in supporting women’s education, professional growth, entrepreneurship, and advocating against gender-based violence.

Webinar Outline:

I. Introduction

• Welcome and Opening Remarks
• Introduction to Guru Nanak Dev Global University’s Commitment to Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment
• Guru Nanak Dev Ji Philosophy towards Women Empowerment

II. Understanding Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment

• Definition and Importance of Gender Equality
• Addressing Gender Gaps and Disparities
• Key Challenges and Barriers Faced by Women in Various Sectors

III. Initiatives and Programs Promoting Gender Equality

• Showcase of Programs Promoting Gender Equality Initiatives
• Highlighting Partnerships with NGOs and Government Agencies
• Success Stories of Women Benefiting from these Initiatives

IV. Empowering Women in Education

• Enhancing Access to Quality Education for Girls and Women
• Empowering Women Through Skill Development and Vocational Training
• Encouraging Women in STEM Fields

V. Empowering Women in the Workplace

• Promoting Gender Diversity and Inclusivity in the Workplace
• Initiatives for Career Advancement and Leadership Opportunities for Women
• Success Stories of Women Achieving Career Milestones

VI. Empowering Women in Entrepreneurship

• Supporting Women-Owned Businesses and Startups
• Access to Finance and Resources for Women Entrepreneurs
• Showcasing Successful Women Entrepreneurs

VII. The Role of Men in Promoting Gender Equality

• Importance of Male Allies in Championing Women’s Rights
• Engaging Men in Gender Sensitization and Awareness
• Showcasing Male Champions for Gender Equality

IX. Q&A Session

• Participants’ Questions and Panelist Responses

X. Closing Remarks

• Recap of Key Takeaways from the Webinar
• Reinforcing Guru Nanak Dev Global University’s Commitment to Gender Equality
• Thanking Participants and Speakers for Their Valuable Contributions

Speakers

Dr. Bidisha Rudra

Bidisha Rudra is a seasoned professional and Senior Managing Director for Transitions commercial Sales at Essilor, where she has made a significant impact over her impressive 17-year journey with Essilor Luxottica. With a diverse and enriching career spanning various roles such as Market Research and Analytics, Managed Care Sales, Business Development, and Corporate Strategy, Bidisha brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Her passion for gender diversity and inclusion in the workplace is evident in her firm belief that achieving such objectives requires the collective effort of all employees. Bidisha’s academic achievements are equally impressive, holding a Ph.D. in Applied Economics from the University of Georgia, Athens, and a Master’s degree in Economics from the prestigious Delhi School of Economics, India. With her wealth of knowledge, leadership, and commitment to empowering women, Bidisha is a valuable speaker for the webinar, ready to inspire and drive positive change towards a more inclusive and equitable work environment.

POOJA ARAMBHAN

Meet Pooja Arambhan, a trailblazing individual who is making a remarkable impact on gender equality and women’s empowerment. As the Co-founder of iiV Health Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Pooja’s vision and dedication have helped break traditional biases and mold for women, empowering them to pursue their individual talents beyond the confines of traditional roles. Holding a Doctorate in her field, Pooja’s educational journey includes BLS/LLB Degrees with a specialization in Cyber laws. Her pursuit of excellence led her to complete an MBA in Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Strategy from Tel Aviv University, Israel, where she was awarded a full scholarship. Pooja is recognized as an Israel Asia Leader’s Fellow and a key contributor to the Bridge to Innovation program of India-Israel Governments, initiating impactful projects in Health, Agriculture, and Water sectors. Notably, she was the youngest invitee from India at the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles Summit held at the UN HQ in New York in 2014. Currently, Pooja serves as an esteemed member of the Mumbai Chapter of FICCI Flo start-up committee and has been elected as the Co-chair for the year 2023-2024. Pooja’s journey and insights are set to inspire and drive change towards a more equitable and inclusive society.

Dr. Santosh K. Kurinec

Santosh K. Kurinec is a distinguished Professor of Electrical and Microelectronic Engineering at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). She holds the esteemed distinction of being a Fellow of IEEE and a Member of the New York Academy of Sciences. With her extensive expertise, she serves as a Guest Professor at the Technical University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt, Germany. Santosh earned her Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Delhi, India, and started her career as a Scientist at the National Physical Laboratory in New Delhi. Her academic journey led her to the University of Florida as a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. Prior to her tenure at RIT, she held the position of Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering at Florida State University/Florida A & M University College of Engineering in Tallahassee, FL. Her research focuses on advanced integrated circuit materials and photovoltaics. She has an impressive publication record of over 130 research articles in esteemed journals and conference proceedings. Santosh has received numerous accolades, including the 2012 IEEE Technical Field Award for her outstanding integration of research and teaching in microelectronic engineering. Her remarkable contributions have led to her induction into the Women in Technology International Hall of Fame in 2018. She was honored with the IEEE Region 1 William Terry Distinguished Service Award in 2022, recognizing her dedication to IEEE service, exceptional research, and teaching in semiconductor technology, and her contributions to fostering the semiconductor workforce. Notably, in 2022, she became a Fellow of the International Association of Advanced Materials. Her significant impact is also evident through her edited books, including “Energy Efficient Computing & Electronics: Devices to Systems,” “Nanoscale Semiconductor Memories: Technology and Applications,” and “Emerging Photovoltaic Materials: Silicon & Beyond.”

DR. SURINDER KAUR

Dr. Surinder Kaur, Founder and President, Punjabi Heritage Foundation, is an exceptional individual whose achievements span across diverse fields, ranging from community services to media and literature. Her accolades underscore her dedication and profound impact on multiple spheres. With an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree from Royal American University, she stands as a testament to the transformative power of community engagement. This recognition reflects her unparalleled commitment to advancing society.

Her educational journey is marked by a BAMS degree from the Council of Alternative System of Medicine in Chandigarh, embodying her passion for alternative healthcare. Additionally, she pursued a course in French language from GNDU, ASR, showcasing her appreciation for cross-cultural communication. Demonstrating her tech-savvy nature, she completed a Diploma in Advanced Computer Technology from BCMT.

Dr. Kaur’s academic achievements are evident from her high-percentage scores in Higher Secondary (10+2) and matriculation examinations, earning her government scholarships from PSEB.

In the media landscape, Dr. Kaur has showcased her versatility and skills as an anchor and TV host on Doordarshan Kendra Jalandhar, Akashwani Radio Jalandhar, and Fastway Network Amritsar. She currently spearheads programs like “Suran de Vanjre,” “SK Show,” and “Charcha” on Sadda Radio USA. Her roles extend to news analysis at Sadda TV USA.

Dr. Kaur’s literary prowess is manifested in her three poetry books: “Sehkdy Harf” published by Punjabi Sath England, “Mehkdy Harf” translated into Urdu Shahmukhi script, and “Dehan Di Majlis” published by Akhira Foundation. These works delve into women’s issues, politics, and societal matters. She holds esteemed positions in the Punjabi Sahit Academy in Ludhiana and Jandaila Guru.

As a dedicated community leader, Dr. Kaur serves as President of the Punjabi Heritage Foundation in Punjab. This role amplifies her commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage. She has empowered women by establishing self-employment parlor centers and self-help groups in villages, in collaboration with NABARD. Her efforts to combat drug abuse and enhance financial literacy further exemplify her societal contributions.

Her exceptional contributions have earned her prestigious awards, including the Hallirao Subrav Patil Award from the All India Poetess Conference, the Literature Honor Award from the International Literature Festival Chandigarh, and the Rising Anchor Award from the Shere-E-Punjab Culture Forum. Her dedication to women’s rights and social betterment has not gone unnoticed.

Dr. Surinder Kaur’s profile encapsulates her journey as a dynamic community leader, media influencer, literary luminary, and dedicated social worker. Her endeavors have reshaped Punjab’s cultural landscape, empowered women, and contributed to the overall betterment of society. Her legacy stands as an inspiration for generations to come.

Dr. Trishna Sarkar

Dr. Trishna Sarkar is an accomplished Assistant Professor at the University of Delhi, where she has been making significant contributions since 2011. Her professional journey is marked by her role as an Assistant Professor at Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar College within the University’s esteemed Department of Economics.

A highly skilled communicator, Dr. Sarkar possesses exceptional organizational and time management abilities. She adeptly handles multiple projects concurrently, consistently meeting strict deadlines. Her problem-solving skills are exemplary, and she has a remarkable knack for thinking and acting swiftly to devise creative solutions.

Education and Expertise Dr. Sarkar’s academic journey showcases her dedication to excellence. She earned her PhD in Economics from Fakir Mohan University, Balasore, Odisha, in 2007. Prior to this, she completed her Post Graduation in Economics from Utkal University, Balasore, Odisha, in 1999. Her academic pursuits began with a Graduation in Economics Honors from Utkal University in 1997, followed by her High School education in Science from Fakir Mohan College, Balasore, Odisha, in 1994.

Dr. Sarkar’s journey encompass rigorous research and the art of creative writing. Her accomplishments are numerous and diverse, reflecting her commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding in her field. She has presented thought-provoking papers at various esteemed conferences, including the ’10th International Conference on Strategies for Promoting Inclusive Development (ICSPID- 2018)’ at Delhi University, where she delved into the adverse impact of climate change on Indian agriculture. Dr. Sarkar also explored the intricate relationship between nature, religion, and economics at the ‘National Conference on Environmental Challenges for New India’ in 2018. Her paper titled ‘Disappearing Wetlands’ examined the vital role of wetlands in Kolkata and the threats they face due to urban expansion. Her exploration of ‘Food Security in India’ at the ‘National Seminar on Empowering Growth through Corporate Governance and Economic Stability Measures’ further highlights her research prowess.

Her contributions extend to published works as well. She has authored the book ‘Food Security In India (A Case Study Of Balasore Municipality)’ published by Nidhi Books in 2015. Dr. Sarkar’s research articles have been published in esteemed publications, such as the ‘Praxis International, Journal of Social Science and Literature’ and the ‘Global Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies’.