Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday inaugurated the State’s first women’s university named after Rama Devi on the occasion of the 116th birth anniversary ofthe eminent freedom fighter and social reformer.
Patnaik said, “Maa Rama Devi was an icon of women empowerment in the State. 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 changes and empower women through education are rare examples of courage in those times. She was the epitome of women’s liberation and empowerment for the successive generations to follow.”
Patnaik hoped the Rama Devi Women’s University would bring qualitative changes among its students and gradually evolve as an institute that inspires the aspirations of women.
The social impact of women’s education is greater than that of men in society. Development of society requires equal participation of women in every walk of socioeconomic life. But women’s participation in higher education is below the desired level, he observed.
“This university is established with overall policy objectives of increased participation of women in higher education. It will be an ideal institution that recognises and promotes gender equality. I hope the 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,” Patnaik added.
Among others, Higher Education Minister Dr Pradeep Panigrahy, Culture Minister Ashok Panda, MP Prasanna Patsani, MlAs Bijay Mpohanty and Priyadarshi Mishra, BMC Mayor Anant Narayan Jena, Higher Education Principal Secretary GVV Sharma, RD Women’s University OSD Prof Padmaja Mishra were present.