FICCI-FLO JK&L, GCW Udhampur forge strategic partnership to empower women

Udhampur, May 3: In a significant move aimed at empowering women across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh Chapter, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government College for Women (GCW), Udhampur.
The MoU marks the commencement of a collaborative partnership to enhance the personal, academic and entrepreneurial capacities of women students in the region. Titled “The Power to Empower”, the initiative embodies a shared vision to create transformative opportunities for young women.
Senior representatives from both institutions were present for the signing. Representing FICCI-FLO JK&L were Aati Choudhary, Chairperson, Varuna Anand, Past Chairperson; Rupika Sahai, Vice Chairperson, and Nandita Bajaj, Secretary. GCW Udhampur was represented by Principal Prof Nalini Pathania and senior faculty members Dr Indu Khajuria (IQAC Convenor), Dr Ajay Kumar Sharma (NSS Programme Officer), Dr Ravinder Kumar (Career Counselling Cell Convenor) and Dr Rewa Lakhnotra (Hospitality Protocol Convenor).
Prof Nalini Pathania said: “This MoU is not just a formal agreement but a powerful commitment to equipping our young women with the skills, exposure, and support they need to thrive in today’s dynamic world. We are proud to collaborate with FICCI-FLO JK&L, whose dedication to women’s empowerment aligns seamlessly with our mission of holistic education.”
The MoU outlines a comprehensive framework of collaboration in areas such as skilling, entrepreneurship, health, and wellness. Through this partnership, both parties will jointly conduct events, workshops, and training programmes promoting digital and financial literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, and career development. Students will benefit from the guidance of accomplished women entrepreneurs and subject experts engaged by FLO JK&L, who will serve as mentors and role models. The agreement also places significant emphasis on physical and mental wellbeing. Initiatives will include awareness campaigns focused on drug de-addiction, stress management, and nutrition. Outreach efforts will extend to underprivileged communities, reinforcing the inclusive values of both institutions.
In a further step to empower women at the grassroots level, capacity-building workshops and specialised programmes will be offered to women associated with Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and local collectives. The establishment of the FICCI-FLO Young Women Affinity Group (YWAG) at GCW Udhampur will provide students with a platform for leadership, innovation, and regional networking. The agreement is valid for one year from the date of signing, with provisions for renewal upon mutual consent. Both parties have agreed to ensure the smooth conclusion of any ongoing activities should the MoU be terminated.