Awareness Program on Gender-Inclusive Workplace Practices held at GCoE Srinagar

Srinagar: The Women Studies Centre of the Government College of Education (GCoE), IASE, Srinagar, in collaboration with the Indian Audit and Accounts Department J&K Srinagar, organized a One Day Awareness Programme on ‘Women’s NGO on Inclusive Workplace Practices – Gender Inclusivity, Equal Opportunities and Workplace Wellbeing’ Tuesday.
The event aimed to highlight the importance of gender-sensitive work environments and create awareness on the legal, social, and institutional mechanisms that promote workplace wellbeing.
The programme was attended by Principal of the College, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, who underscored the relevance of women’s empowerment and the critical role educational institutions play in promoting inclusive workplace practices. She emphasized the transformative potential of gender equity initiatives in ensuring safe, just, and productive workspaces.
General Manager, District Industries Centre Ganderbal, Dr. Mantasha Binti Rashid, spoke extensively on the structural and policy-driven aspects of gender inclusivity. She also stressed the importance of capacity building and institutional reforms aimed at fostering an environment where women can participate meaningfully in economic activities.
Director EMMRC, University of Kashmir, Prof. (Dr.) Salima Jan, stressed the role of media and communication in reshaping public narratives around gender roles and workplace culture.
President of Soroptimist International Kashmir, elaborated on global women’s rights initiatives and the role of international networks in uplifting women through education and empowerment.
Legal experts provided an extensive overview of the legal protections available to women workers, including provisions related to workplace harassment, maternity benefits, and the right to equal pay. Their deliberations helped participants understand the legal frameworks governing women’s workplace rights and the importance of legal literacy among employees. They also stressed the need for understanding the challenges faced by transgenders and the need to promote Education for empowering them.
Coordinator at the Centre for Women Studies and Research, University of Kashmir, discussed gender sensitization as a key strategy in fostering empathy, respect, and equality within institutions. She emphasized the need for regular training, orientation programmes, and policy interventions.
Coordinator WSC, highlighted the progress and challenges experienced by women in higher education spaces and the urgent need for institutional mechanisms such as ICCs and grievance redressal cells.
Deputy Accountant General (Administration-A&E), appreciated the collaborative effort between the two institutions and reiterated the importance of decentralizing awareness programmes so that gender