Jammu, Dec 26: The Disability Initiatives, University of Jammu, in collaboration with the Office of Programme Coordinator, NSS, JU, and ELFA International, organized a two-day workshop titled ‘Leadership Skills for an Inclusive World: Challenges and Prospects.’ The inaugural function featured Pardeep Dutta, Senior Editor, Times Now, as the chief guest, who said determination was a key skill for success and the importance of creating an inclusive society.
Dutta highlighted the impact of social conditioning, urging students to realize their inner potential and become architects of their destiny. He stressed that an inclusive approach should be rooted in compassion, not charity.
Prof Sarika Manhas, Coordinator Disability Initiatives, JU, welcomed participants, recognizing the leadership potential of students with disabilities and their capacity for compassion and empathy. She underlined the university’s commitment to supporting persons with disabilities.
Dr Hema Gandotra, Programme Coordinator, NSS, JU, discussed the workshop’s objectives, emphasizing the NSS volunteers’ role in building an inclusive social order. She urged volunteers to be ready as a support mechanism for those with disabilities.
Mr Mehran Khan, Founder and CEO of ELFA International, a key resource person, highlighted the role of motivation, determination, and perseverance in youth empowerment. He shared strategies for achieving equality and equity in society, emphasizing empathy and inclusion as benchmarks of good leadership.
The workshop’s technical session included games and activities to help students learn leadership skills. Over 50 students with disabilities from different University departments and NSS volunteers actively participated.
The formal vote of thanks was given by Dr Neelam Choudhary, Faculty DD & OE, JU. The workshop aimed to empower students, particularly those with disabilities, by fostering leadership skills and promoting an inclusive mindset. A team of research scholars from the Department of Home Science and Sociology contributed to the workshop’s smooth conduct.
