Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: JK Public School Kunjwani, FICCI FLO JKL empower girls in STEM
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: In a landmark stride towards bridging the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), JK Public School Kunjwani, in collaboration with FICCI FLO JKL, hosted an inspiring seminar for girl students of Classes IX and X.
The initiative aimed to ignite curiosity, dismantle gender stereotypes, and motivate young women to take up Mathematics and Science for higher studies, preparing them to lead in a technology-driven world.
The event brought together eminent speakers from academia and industry who shared their journeys, insights, and practical guidance to help students envision themselves as future scientists, innovators, and changemakers.
Opening the seminar, Varuna Anand, Past Chairperson of FICCI FLO JKL and Founder of The Splendor of Kashmir, highlighted the transformative power of STEM as a catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurship, and social change. She urged students to view these disciplines not merely as subjects, but as tools for shaping careers, communities, and a progressive nation.
Representing Collegify, a leading global education consultancy, Ilakshee Nath (Senior Admission Specialist) addressed the need for aligning academic choices with personal aspirations. She examined why many girls study STEM subjects but hesitate to pursue them as careers, underlined the value of liberal sciences, celebrated women trailblazers, and emphasized the critical role of male allies. She also shared strategies for profile building, effective use of LinkedIn, and expanding women’s representation in STEM careers.
Her colleague, Taarika Kakkar (Senior Admissions Specialist, Careers & Programs), spoke on connecting with the right mentors, building impactful academic and professional profiles, and leveraging science and technology to enter creative fields. Through inspiring stories of Indian women in STEM who have made a global impact, she encouraged students to aim high and break barriers.
From the scientific sphere, Dr. Shelley Sehgal, Associate Professor, Department of Molecular Biology, Central University of Jammu, delivered a powerful talk on “Empowering Women in STEM – Unlock Your Potential”. She highlighted diverse career opportunities, spoke of the Prime Minister’s initiatives for promoting girls in science, and introduced government schemes such as Vigyan Jyoti, GATI, and KIRAN, designed to create pathways for young women in STEM.
The seminar was graced by Nandita Bajaj, Executive Secretary, FICCI FLO JKL; Sona Mehta, Treasurer, FICCI FLO JKL; and Richa Taneja, Regional Manager & Head of Enrollments, Collegify, whose presence and encouragement inspired the young attendees.
Speaking on the occasion, Rajesh Rathore, Principal, JK Public School Kunjwani, said: “Today’s seminar is not merely an event-it is a movement, a pledge to shatter ceilings that have long confined women’s aspirations in STEM.
“In this era of rapid technological change, the future will belong to those who adapt, lead, and inspire. And I see that future in the eyes of our young girls here today. I urge each of you to dream without limits, to challenge stereotypes, and to remember that your voice, your ideas, and your innovations matter”, he added.
“Let this be the beginning of a journey where you don’t just follow the path-you pave it. May you carry forward the lessons of today, and may the world one day speak of your breakthroughs, your leadership, and your courage to stand beyond boundaries”, he summed up.
As a gesture of appreciation, Shashi Chaudhary presented mementoes to the guests, acknowledging their role in inspiring the next generation of women leaders in science and technology.
“Through such initiatives, JK Public School Kunjwani continues to broaden horizons, nurture curiosity, and equip girl students with the confidence and skills to excel in diverse, dynamic, and impactful fields of science and technology”, she concluded.
