One-Day Workshop on Gender Sensitization held
Aligarh : The Department of Philosophy at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS, AMU), organized a one-day workshop titled “Gender Sensitization” in the Faculty of Arts Lounge. This event, organized under the banner of the DIALOG Discussion Forum, aimed to promote gender equality, awareness, and inclusivity within academic and professional settings.
The program commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Aquil Ahmed, Chairperson, Department of Philosophy, who emphasized the importance of gender sensitivity and equality. Dr. Ahmed highlighted the need to eradicate stereotypes and empower individuals, stressing that gender equality is a critical consideration for students and faculty alike.
The workshop featured two speakers: Dr. Tarushikha Sarvesh, Assistant Professor and NSS Program Officer, and Mr. Sheeraz Ahmed, Assistant Professor at the Advanced Centre of Women’s Studies. They jointly talked about the theme, “Respect, Reflect, Respond: Gender Sensitization for an Inclusive Campus.”
Mr. Sheeraz Ahmed discussed the legal aspects of gender sensitization, focusing on constitutional provisions supporting women’s rights. He elaborated on Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Indian Constitution, along with various case studies related to Articles 39(A), 39(D), 39(E), and 42, which address women’s livelihood and social security.
Dr. Tarushikha Sarvesh addressed the social aspects of gender sensitivity, engaging participants in interactive activities. These activities analyzed gender stereotypes, biases, and real-life challenges faced by women in traditionally male-dominated professions. Dr. Sarvesh introduced the “5Ds” approach to managing harassment: Direct Confrontation, Distraction, Delegate, Delay, and Document.
Presiding over the event, Prof. Samina Khan, Department of English and Presiding Officer of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), reiterated the university’s commitment to zero tolerance for sexual harassment. She emphasized that gender sensitivity aims to promote solidarity across genders, not superiority of one over another. She also described the ICC’s role in handling grievances and achieving resolutions.
The program concluded with remarks by Dr. Naushaba Anjum, Coordinator of the Departmental Sexual Harassment Committee, who acknowledged the workshop’s success and department’s dedication to promoting a respectful and inclusive campus culture.
The event was moderated by Dr. Hina Mushtaq, who also extended the vote of thanks. Faculty members, research scholars, and students from various departments actively participated in this workshop.