Srinagar, Oct 10: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, under the aegis of the Office of Dean Alumni and International Affairs, organised a special Women’s Session on Friday as part of its two-day Global Alumni Meet – SANGAM 2025.
The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of the institute’s distinguished women alumni and underscored their pivotal role in transforming professional, academic, and social landscapes.
Themed “Women in Power: Beyond Balance: Towards Brilliance” the session brought together accomplished alumnae, professionals, and scholars from diverse fields to share their experiences.
In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, extended warm greetings to all alumnae and participants, expressing immense pride in the institute’s women achievers.
“Our women alumni have excelled in every sphere, representing the values and vision of NIT Srinagar across the globe,” he said.
“They are not only role models for our students but also catalysts of social transformation. The true empowerment comes from education, confidence, and opportunity,” he added.
I/C Director and Dean Research & Consultancy, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Roohie Naaz, said the Women’s Session reflected the institute’s steadfast commitment to promoting gender inclusivity, innovation, and leadership development.
“Such platforms inspire dialogue and mentorship while recognising the contributions of women in building stronger institutions and communities. Women alumni of NIT Srinagar continue to be trailblazers, breaking stereotypes and setting benchmarks in their respective professions,” she said.
Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal of the Government Medical College, Srinagar, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, delivered an inspiring keynote address.
She emphasized the significance of empowering women professionals through mentorship, collaboration, and institutional support.
“Breaking the glass ceiling is not just about individual success; it is about opening doors for others and ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to dream, lead, and contribute meaningfully,” she said.
Prof. Iffat extended her appreciation to the Office of Alumni and International Affairs for curating the session as part of SANGAM 2025, describing it as “a tribute to the spirit of resilience, professionalism, and empowerment that defines NIT Srinagar’s women community.”
Institute Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman also lauded the Women’s Session for providing a meaningful platform to celebrate women’s achievements.
“Empowering women through education and opportunity is not just a goal; it is our responsibility as an institution,” he said.
Er. Aaquib Sultana Deva, Chief Engineer (Distribution), KPDCL, who was Guest of Honour on the occasion, expressed her gratitude to NIT Srinagar for hosting such a purposeful event.
Sharing her own journey, she highlighted perseverance, professional integrity, and the importance of self-belief in navigating challenges in male-dominated sectors.
“We must remember that every woman who succeeds in her field opens doors for hundreds of others to follow. Empowering women means empowering entire communities and transforming societies,” Er. Aaquib added.
Er. Anbreena Anjum, District Superintending Engineer, Jal Shakti Department, shared her remarkable professional journey marked by discipline, integrity, and a deep commitment to public service.
Speaking about her experiences in infrastructure and water resource management, she noted that women professionals are increasingly taking on leadership roles that were once considered off-limits.
Er. Samrah Shakeel, Officer on Special Duty, Skill Development, Board of Technical Education, J&K, in her address, focused on the transformative power of mentorship, collaboration, and continuous learning.
“Success becomes more meaningful when it uplifts others. Mentorship and peer support are powerful tools that can help women navigate challenges and discover their potential,” she said.
The first session was moderated by Dr. Yusra Banday (ECE) and Ms Falak Jahan (Chemistry).
Another session, titled “Breaking the Glass Ceiling,” was moderated by Dr. Iqra Altaf Gillani and featured all guest speakers as panelists alongside Prof. Roohie Naaz, who chaired the discussion.
The discussion explored themes of leadership, equity, representation, and empowerment of women in science, technology, governance, and academia.
In his remarks, Prof. M.A. Shah, Dean Alumni Affairs, said the session was an inspiring beginning to the Global Alumni Meet and aligned perfectly with the vision of connecting alumni across generations.
“Our women alumni are the pride of NIT Srinagar. Their journeys reflect courage, competence, and compassion. Through platforms like SANGAM 2025, we aim to celebrate their success and strengthen our alumni network for collaborative growth,” Prof. Shah said.
He said it is not a symbolic gesture but a strategic initiative aimed at providing a meaningful platform for the institute’s female alumns to share, inspire, and lead.
Earlier, the event began with a welcome note by Ms. Falak, followed by the screening of a short documentary titled “The Uprising” by MIT Press, depicting global women’s struggles and successes.
The guests were felicitated by Director NIT Srinagar Prof. Roohie Naaz, Prof. MA Shah as a token of appreciation.
In her concluding remarks, Dr. Iqra Altaf Gillani expressed gratitude to all speakers and participants, stating that the event provided a meaningful space for intergenerational learning and collaboration.
Session ended with an interactive Question-and-Answer segment, during which students from various departments posed questions on career growth, leadership challenges, and work-life balance.
