The programme was organised in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), National Commission for Women (NCW) and Dr Archika Foundation. It was also conducted as part of the research initiative “Mapping Gender Sensitivity Behaviour Patterns among Youth in Higher Education: An AI-Driven Longitudinal Study”, aimed at understanding youth behaviour and encouraging a shift from awareness to responsible action.
Dr Archika Didi, Chairperson of Dr Archika Foundation, was the chief guest, while Justice Rajesh Tandon, former judge of the High Court of Uttarakhand, and Neha Yadav, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Special Police Unit for Women and Children, attended as guests of honour. Representatives of the National Commission for Women also participated in the programme.
Focus on dignity, safety and equal opportunities
Addressing the gathering, Justice Rajesh Tandon highlighted the need to protect women’s fundamental rights to livelihood, dignity and safety at the workplace. He stressed the importance of creating an environment where women can work and progress with dignity and security.
DCP Neha Yadav interacted with students on ways to manage stress arising from academic, social and workplace pressures. She encouraged students to develop healthy daily routines, including breathing exercises, adequate sleep, meditation, physical activity, reading and writing, to improve emotional well-being and mental resilience.
Dr Archika Didi said young people face several challenges in their academic, professional and personal lives and therefore need strong mental resilience. She also demonstrated meditation techniques and encouraged students to reflect on their everyday attitudes towards stereotypes, inappropriate comments, discrimination and exclusion.
‘Awareness must translate into action’
The IPEC Vice-Chairperson said awareness alone cannot bring meaningful change unless it is converted into understanding, empathy and positive action. She said young people are not merely the citizens of tomorrow but agents of change today, and need confidence, emotional balance, resilience and compassion to contribute positively to society.
Programme Convener Dr Pooja Tripathi said education should go beyond technical and professional skills. Students must also be equipped to think critically, question stereotypes, communicate respectfully, recognise inequality and stand up for dignity and inclusion.
She emphasised that young people are already shaping society through their choices, attitudes and behaviour. “The focus should therefore be on moving from awareness to understanding, empathy and responsible action,” she said.
During the concluding session, Vibhuti Shankar, Vice-President, Funded Project, said programmes focusing on youth development and social awareness are essential in the present context. He thanked Dr Archika Foundation and all partner organisations for their support and expressed hope that similar initiatives would continue at IPEC.
The programme was attended by Puneet Agarwal, Vice-Chairman, IPEC; Amit Jain, Dean, Student Welfare, the principal, senior officials, faculty members and a large number of students. The event concluded with a message urging young people to contribute towards building a safer, more respectful and inclusive society.
.jpg)
0 Comments