The Women Cell of the School of Liberal Arts, Uttaranchal University, organized an interactive session on Gender Sensitization on 4th September at 12:30 pm in the Seminar Hall. The session was specially designed for first-semester students with the objectives of introducing them to the Women Cell and its functions, as well as creating awareness about gender equality and fostering a healthy, respectful environment on campus.
The session began with a thought-provoking quotation on equality, setting the tone for the discussion. Ms. Ritu Baluni, Member Secretary of the Women Cell, highlighted gender sensitization to understand and address existing stereotypes and biases. Students were informed about how gender roles are often socially constructed and how these roles impact both men and women. The session emphasized that gender sensitization is not only about empowering women but also about ensuring that men are equally respected and valued as companions and equals.
The discussion further explored issues related to women that the Women Cell seeks to address, such as safety, rights, opportunities, and the need for a supportive environment. Students were encouraged to share their views, making the session highly interactive. Several examples from everyday life and media were discussed to illustrate how unconscious biases can shape attitudes and behaviors.
A key aspect of the session clarified that gender sensitization is not about one gender overpowering the other but about mutual respect, cooperation, and coexistence. The enthusiastic participation of the students reflected their keen interest in understanding and promoting inclusivity.
In conclusion, the session was an enriching experience that successfully raised awareness among first-year students and motivated them to uphold equality in both thought and practice. The event was coordinated by Ms. Ritu Baluni, Member Secretary, Women Cell, SLA, under the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Shalini Vohra, Director, SLA.
