Solan, September 16
Shoolini University’s Centre for Leadership Coaching, in collaboration with Pehal Foundation, has launched Project Pragati, Rural Women Entrepreneurs Development Programme, an initiative aimed at uplifting women in nearby villages through training, education, and self-reliance. With the support and vision of Mr. Vishal Anand, Pro-Chancellor of Shoolini University, the first phase of the project was completed today with an equipment handover ceremony.
The programme, which began in November 2024, has already created inspiring stories of transformation and empowerment. Under the aegis of V-Empower, Centre for Leadership Coaching, two self-help groups from Salogra and Sanhol panchayats have been adopted for training and development. Women participants, referred to as “sakhis”, were trained through innovative methods, including video conferencing sessions and hands-on workshops, designed to enhance their skills and boost their confidence.
Mrs. Saroj Khosla, President Shoolini University and Chairperson SILB, attended as the Chief Guest, while Mrs. Manorama Anand was the Guest of Honour. Other distinguished guests included Prof. P.K. Khosla, Chancellor, Shoolini University; Mr. Vishal Anand, Pro-Chancellor, Shoolini University; Prof. Ashish Khosla, Director of Innovations and Marketing; and Dr. Sunil Puri, Registrar of the University.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. P.K. Khosla emphasised the University’s deep commitment to social responsibility. He said, we are responsible not only for academic excellence but also for the development of nearby communities. At Shoolini, we encourage our students to embrace the value of serving society. Along with women’s empowerment, the University has been supporting farmers and agriculturists in the region by sharing knowledge and resources. Shoolini will always stand by its community in every possible way.
In her keynote address, Mrs. Saroj Khosla recalled the University’s vision since its inception. She said when Shoolini was established, our primary goal was to be a research-oriented institution. Over time, however, we also felt a strong responsibility to work for the betterment of society. For decades, we have been adopting villages to provide educational support. This initiative for rural women’s empowerment is another step toward uplifting women and helping them become self-reliant.
The Guest of Honour, Mrs. Manorama Anand, along with Mrs. Saroj Khosla, distributed certificates to the trained women, recognising their achievements.
Delivering the concluding remarks, Pro-Chancellor Mr. Vishal Anand inspired participants, saying, “We are witnessing the energy and potential of Gen Z. Think big, think positively, and positive change will surely follow.”
Delivering the concluding remarks, Pro-Chancellor Mr. Vishal Anand inspired participants with his words and said we are witnessing the energy and potential of Gen Z. Think big, think positively, and positive change will surely follow.
The programme also facilitated all the women entrepreneurs from Tikar Panchayat and Salogra Panchayat for their cooperation and active participation. Sharing her thoughts, Kusum Lata Pradhan Sanhol Panchayat said, “It is often difficult for women to step out of their homes, but these hardworking women have shown that they can achieve remarkable things. We will include more women in this programme, and with the support of Shoolini University, they will also be able to secure meaningful employment.
Ms. Payal Khanna, Director, Centre for Leadership Coaching, highlighted the broader vision of the initiative. She said, the Rural Women Empowerment Development Programme is a shining example of academia joining hands with social organisations to drive positive change. By empowering women, Shoolini University is not only nurturing individuals but also strengthening families and communities, thereby contributing to holistic rural development.
