International conference dwells on issues, challenges faced by women

Tribune News Service

Patiala, November 26

The Women Studies Centre of Punjabi University sorganised the 13th international conference on “Women in leadership: Emerging issues and challenges” here on Thursday. During the conference participants discussed patriarchy in society and motivation of women for decision making roles.

Rajinder Kaur Bhathal, former Chief Minister, Punjab, who was chief guest on the occasion, said, “The role of women has improved in the decision making process since the country’s independence, but much more needs to be done to tap their full potential.”

In her address Dr Navtej Purewall, professor of political sociology and development studies at University of London, focused on bringing about gender justice through transformation of society.

Prem Singh Mann, a retired professor and Chairperson, Department of Economics, Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, said, “On one hand women have to be motivated to take-up decision making roles and on the other, society laden with patriarchal attitude and thinking needs to be overhauled to provide them more opportunities to adorn leadership roles.”

Manpreet Kaur, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Amritsar, Kiranpreet Kaur Dhammi, member, Women Commission, Punjab, Dr Sunita Dhir, retired professor and theatre and film personality, and Dr Sarabjeet Kaur Sohal, Principal, University College, Chunni Kalan, were present on the occasion.