Odisha’s first women’s university to stand out as a centre of excellence

BHUBANESWAR: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday inaugurated state’s first women’s university named after Maa Rama Devi on the occasion of the 116th birth anniversary of the renowned freedom fighter.

Inaugurating the women’s university, the Chief Minister described Maa Rama Devi as an icon of women empowerment in the state.

He said she was the epitome of women’s liberation and empowerment for the successive generations to follow.

“Breaking the traditional world of conservatism with a rare sense of courage, she had come out of the closet to dedicate herself to the nation and serve society. Her conviction, determination and dedication to bring about social change and empower women through education are rare examples of courage in those times,” said the Chief Minister.

Stating that education is the most significant component of human development in any society, he said education enables people to face the challenges of life and work for humanity as a whole.

“I hope, Rama Devi Women’s University will be able to bring these qualitative changes among its students, and gradually evolve as an institute that inspires the aspirations of women in Odisha,” said the Chief Minister.

He said women constitute almost half of the population of the country, and the social impact of women’s education is greater than that of men in society.

“Development of society requires the equal participation of women in every walk of socio-economic life. But women’s participation in higher education is below the desired level.  I believe that increased participation of women in higher education can fast track our development process,” said Patnaik.

He said the University, which is established with overall policy objectives of increased participation of women in higher education, will be an ideal institution that recognises and promotes gender equality.

“I hope the Women’s University will initiate studies on women’s empowerment, women’s rights, gender equality and studies that will create confidence and enable our young women for forward movement in society.  The Government will provide all necessary support to this University to stand out as a Centre of Excellence,” he concluded.

The function was attended by Higher Education Minister Pradeep Panigrahi, Culture Minister Ashok Panda, Bhubaneswar MP Prasanna Patsani, MLAs Bijay Mohanty, Priyadarshi Mishra and Mayor Anant Narayan Jena.