Celebration Of International Women’s Day – VC’s Message

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, students and friends,

Today, we celebrate International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to honouring the achievements and contributions of women around the globe. It is a day to ponder on the progress we have made towards gender equality, and also to acknowledge the challenges that still lie ahead.

As Vice Chancellor of this esteemed institution, I am honoured to join you to commemorate this important occasion. Our university has always been committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunity for all. We believe firmly that gender should never be a barrier to success, and we are proud of the countless women who have walked through our doors and gone on to make significant contributions to society.

This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “Invest in Women, accelerate Progress”.  It is a powerful call to action, urging every one of us to challenge the status quo, to question outdated norms and stereotypes and to strive for a more inclusive and equitable world.

We must confront the gender biases that still exist in our classrooms, workplaces and communities. We must interrogate the systemic barricades that prevent women from reaching their full potential, whether it be in the form of unequal pay, limited access to education and healthcare, or lack of representation in leadership positions.

Most importantly, we must dare to be agents of change. We must actively work towards creating a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.

As members of this university community, we have a responsibility to lead by example. We must support and empower one another, championing the voices of women from all walks of life. We must strive to create an environment where diversity is celebrated and where everyone feels valued and respected.

On this International Women’s Day, let us recommit ourselves to the fight for gender equality. Let us stand in solidarity with women everywhere, accepting their contributions, honouring their achievements, and advocating for their rights.

Together, we can build a world where every woman has the freedom to pursue her dreams and fulfil her potential. Let us choose to challenge, not just today, but every day, until equality is no longer a distant goal but a reality for all.