Science and education empower people, especially women who needs more empowerment and representation even now. That is why our government is supporting women empowerment,” said Dr Riad Kamel Abbas, Ambassador of Syria to India. He was the chief guest for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur.
“Syria is a small country but we are diverse in terms of culture and religion. Our aim is to move towards equality. Women are the basis of our society. So we are providing free education and medicine in Syria,” said the diplomat. He added: “SRMIST is one of the best universities in India and Syrian students studying here must make use of this opportunity well.” He also urged students to complete their education and go back to their motherland so that they can contribute towards its development.
Dean (sciences) Dr D John Thiruvadigal welcomed the gathering. He said that the college is giving several benefits for women researches, including seed grants.
In his presidential address, vice-chancellor of SRMIST, Dr Sandeep Sancheti said, “People have started realising the capacity of women in science. They are multitasking and capable of delivering what is required, although they face several challenges in domestic and professional front. We have to make sure that women in sciences are given due respect because they have a lot to deal with. Unlike other subjects, science involves fieldwork, test, laboratory based investigations and observations. It cannot be done in the domain of the home. Families and institutions should give them the power to grow.”
Director (International Relations), Kartar Singh said SRMIST hosts a large number of Syrian students. He urged students to work on different projects and researches so that it has an impact on women. He also pointed out that many funding agencies ask the primary question as to how their project would benefit women.
Registrar of SRMIST, Dr N Sethuraman highlighted how the college motivates women students and professors.
Syrian students received their course completion certificate for Diploma in English from the Syrian Ambassador on the occasion. SRMIST students performed cultural events. Research assistant professor, Dr P Shoba gave a presentation on “Women raising the hidden barriers through science.” She motivated the audience on how science should be perceived as a powerful weapon by woman to reach the place where they deserve to be.