By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE – Lahore College for Women University (LCWU) successfully hosted the First Regional Event of the Women Empowerment and Mentoring Program (WEMP) in collaboration with the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE). The event took place at Iqra Auditorium, LCWU, bringing together distinguished academicians, mentors, mentees, and participants from leading higher education institutions, including Kinnaird College for Women University, University of Home Economics Lahore, and Fatima Jinnah Medical University Lahore.
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Prof. Dr. Uzma Qureshi, Vice Chancellor, LCWU delivered a welcome address emphasizing the importance of mentorship and leadership development in empowering women in academia and beyond. Expressing her hope for the success of the programme, Dr Uzma Qureshi said Islam advocates for gender equity in responsibilities, accountability, and rewards, underscoring that Pakistan has a legacy of prominent women figures in politics, education, judiciary, and the economy, demonstrating the nation’s belief in equality. Dr Qureshi highlighted that 48% of students enrolled in higher education are now female. She underscored that programmes like WEMP are designed to ensure equitable resources and support for career advancement in higher academia. She affirmed LCWU’s continued commitment to enhancing female capacity building and engagement in the practical life.
Prof. Dr. Farzana Rashid, Chairperson WEMP Committee at LCWU, in her vote if thanks expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, speakers, and participants for their valuable contributions.The secretary of WEMP committee at LCWU Dr. Tahira Kalsoom presented a comprehensive report on WEMP activities and highlighting the university’s initiatives in fostering women’s professional growth. Muhammad Muneeb-Ur-Rehman, Assistant Director NAHE, provided an insightful and comprehensive Program Orientation, outlining the objectives and future scope of WEMP. He also briefed the audience about the achievements of the program to-date.
Managing Director NAHE Noor Amna Malik highlighted the programme as a strategic initiative to promote gender mainstreaming. She explained that in partnership with HEDP and with support from the World Bank, WEMP aims to foster gender equality by empowering female faculty and staff within higher education institutions.Her address emphasized the role of mentorship in breaking barriers. She also emphasized the importance of self analysis and development for professional effectiveness for women in the higher education sector. “Similar regional events will also be held in collaboration with other participating universities of the program.” She added.This regional event served as a significant step towards fostering women’s empowerment and mentorship in higher education and reaffirmed LCWU’s commitment to supporting women in academia and leadership roles.
