National workshop on gender equality begins at MBB College with PM-USHA support, inaugurated by Padma Shri Arunoday Saha. Academicians discuss gender budgeting, women’s political participation, labour inequality, and inclusive policymaking to advance social justice and sustainable development.
A two-day national workshop on gender equality commenced at Maharaja Bir Bikram College, widely known as MBB College, drawing academicians, researchers, and students from various institutions to deliberate on pressing gender issues and progressive policy frameworks. The workshop has been jointly organised by the Departments of Economics and Political Science, reflecting an interdisciplinary approach to addressing structural inequalities and promoting inclusive academic dialogue.
The event is being conducted with financial assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA), highlighting the government’s sustained commitment to strengthening higher education institutions and fostering inclusive discourse across campuses nationwide. The support under PM-USHA underscores the emphasis on quality enhancement, research promotion, and equitable access in India’s higher education system.
The workshop was inaugurated by Professor and Padma Shri awardee Arunoday Saha, who stressed that gender equality remains a cornerstone of social justice and sustainable development. In his inaugural address, he underscored the need for coordinated efforts among educational institutions, policymakers, and civil society to eliminate gender-based discrimination and guarantee equal opportunities for all genders. He observed that while legal and policy frameworks have advanced considerably in recent years, significant gaps persist in implementation and societal attitudes.
Over the two-day programme, participants are expected to engage in a series of technical sessions, paper presentations, and panel discussions covering a wide range of topics. Key areas of focus include gender budgeting, women’s political participation, labour market inequalities, and the need for gender-sensitive policymaking. Experts are also exploring how economic policies and governance structures can better incorporate gender perspectives to ensure inclusive growth.
On the opening day, scholars presented research papers examining gender disparities in employment patterns, access to education, and representation in decision-making bodies. Discussions highlighted the persistent wage gap, underrepresentation of women in leadership roles, and the intersectional challenges faced by marginalized communities. Participants shared empirical findings as well as grassroots experiences, contributing to a rich exchange of ideas and best practices.
Faculty members from different colleges and universities, along with research scholars and students, actively participated in the deliberations. Interactive sessions encouraged critical engagement and collaborative learning, enabling attendees to question prevailing norms and propose innovative solutions. The organisers expressed optimism that the workshop would serve as a catalyst for sustained academic engagement on gender issues and inspire further research initiatives.
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By creating a platform for informed dialogue and collaborative reflection, the workshop aims to strengthen awareness and contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society. The organisers reiterated that higher education institutions play a pivotal role in shaping progressive mindsets and influencing policy debates, making such initiatives essential for long-term social transformation.
