Date: 18th March, 2025
Venue: Mahatma Night Degree College, Chembur
Organizers: Mahatma Night Degree College, Soroptimist International, Bombay Chembur, and Stree Mukti Sanghatana
Target Audience: Labour Women
On March 18, 2025, The Women Development Cell (WDC) of Mahatma Night Degree College, in Collaboration with Soroptimist International, Bombay Chembur, and Stree Mukti Sanghatana, organized a commendable celebration for International Women’s Day. The event aimed to empower labour women by raising awareness of their rights, highlighting women’s issues, and fostering a sense of community among attendees.
The program commenced with an introductory note by Ms. Supriya, a volunteer from Stree Mukti Sanghatana. She warmly welcomed the principal of the college, Dr. Eknath Zhrekar, along with distinguished guests, including Mrs. Jyoti Mhapsekar, Chairman of SMS, and Mrs. Amol Ketkar, President of SMS. In a move to honour the legacy of women’s empowerment, the dignitaries offered garlands and flowers to the photograph of Savitribai Phule, a pioneering social reformer and advocate for women’s education in India.
Following the opening ceremony, Ms. Supriya introduced the guests, who then shared their insights and encouragement through thoughtful speeches directed at the women attendees. Each speech emphasized the importance of education, self-reliance, and the collective strength of women in society.
One of the highlights of the program was the address by Ms. Alka, another volunteer from Stree Mukti Sanghatana. She narrated poignant stories reflecting the challenges faced by women in labour sectors alongside introducing new laws designed to protect women’s rights against violations. This segment was particularly engaging, as many labour women in attendance seized the opportunity to pose questions regarding their rights and sought advice on handling various forms of violations.
The Question-and-Answer Session was facilitated effectively by the resource person, who provided considered and informative responses. This interactive exchange not only enlightened the audience about legal protections but also empowered them with practical strategies for addressing issues they may encounter in their workplaces.
Ms. Shabha, another organizer, concluded the program with a heartfelt vote of thanks. She expressed deep gratitude towards the management, Principal, Member of WDC of the college and the entire staff of Mahatma Night Degree College for their vital support in orchestrating this impactful event. She also thanked to the members of Soroptimist International, Bombay Chembur, and volunteers of Stree Mukti Sanghatana for their dedication to women’s issues and their ongoing efforts to promote gender equality.
To foster a spirit of camaraderie among participants, Stree Mukti Sanghatana generously sponsored snacks for everyone, ensuring that all attendees left with not only knowledge but a sense of unity and support.
The International Women’s Day celebration was a resounding success, fostering empowerment, knowledge, and support among labour women, and reaffirming the Community’s Commitment to promoting the rights and welfare of women in every sector.