SRINAGAR: In a first-of-its-kind initiative to raise self-esteem among women folk in Kashmir, Soroptimist International, a global women’s organization, championing the cause of women’s rights, today launched its Kashmir chapter amidst much fanfare.
With Prof. Parveen Pandit, a prominent educationist, serving as chair, a charter ceremony was organized at the Government College of Education, Cluster University of Kashmir, in this regard.
The opening event of the SI International Kashmir chapter featured a vibrant cultural program and solemn isband. The ceremony, which is a milestone in the journey towards gender equality and social change, was attended by women from international, national, and regional platforms-.
Soroptimist International, a global women’s organization with a legacy spanning over a century, champions the cause of women’s rights and socio-economic empowerment on an international scale.
Cathy Cottridge, President of Soroptimist International Great Britain and Ireland (SIGBI), Prof. Neelofer Khan, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, Prof. Pam Rajput, Prof. Emeritus, Panjab University, Patiala were among the other distinguished present on the occasion.
The Charter Ceremony saw the official birth of SI Srinagar (Kashmir), complete with the symbolic collaring of the President by SIGBI President Cathy Cottridge, signifying the investiture of leadership responsibilities.
Cathy’s presence symbolized the broader reach of the Soroptimist movement, spanning continents and cultures “The Chartering of SI Srinagar (Kashmir) and the Collaring of President by SIGBI President were poignant moments, signifying the official birth of a new chapter and the formal investiture of leadership responsibilities,” Cathy said on the occasion.
Prof Nilofar Khan, who was the chief guest of the occasion, emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment and visibility in all fields through capacity building and awareness of women and the role of organizations like Soroptimist International in fostering meaningful societal transformation.
Prof Pam Rajput in her special address congratulated SI Srinagar for the charter and spoke about Soroptimist International and how she is proud of being part of such a prestigious international organization.
Zainab Riyaz, the Club Communication officer, spoke about the Vision and Mission of the organization encapsulating the essence of Soroptimist International’s commitment to fostering positive change in communities.
The representatives of SI International said the Charter Ceremony of Soroptimist International Srinagar (Kashmir) was a testament to the interconnectedness of a global sisterhood united by a common purpose.
