St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata (SXUK) observed International Women’s Day on its campus on March 6, 2026, reaffirming its commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive academic environment. The initiative aimed to promote leadership, dialogue, and meaningful participation of all members of society.

Blessed by Rev. Dr. John Felix Raj, SJ, Vice-Chancellor of SXUK, the programme was organized by the Women and Gender Development Cell (WGDC) and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC).

A workshop on Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) and Financial Empowerment of Women was conducted for students, faculty, and staff members.

Addressing the gathering, Father Dr. Xavier Jeyaraj, SJ, Registrar of SXUK elaborated on this year’s theme, “Give to Gain.” He emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge, resources, and support, especially with marginalized sections, and highlighted the role of empathy and care in strengthening human dignity and relationships.

The session on prevention of sexual harassment was led by Smt. Ananya Dutta Chowdhury, Senior Manager at Damodar Valley Project. She underscored that a safe and dignified workplace is a fundamental human right and discussed the legal, social, and cultural dimensions of gender-based violations. Participants actively engaged in discussions, sharing experiences and exploring solutions to address such issues.

Another session on financial empowerment was conducted by Mr. Samik Dasgupta, Chief Business Manager at National Insurance Corporation, who spoke on the importance of financial independence for women.

Dr. Antara Ghatak, Convener of the WGDC, highlighted the cell’s ongoing initiatives, including workshops, awareness programmes, and physical training for female students. She stressed the university’s commitment to ensuring that gender equality is practiced actively on campus. The event concluded with a renewed pledge to create a more inclusive and supportive academic space for all.

Dr. Antara Ghatak

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• To create awareness about the social problems faced in gendered society and to inculcate the values of inclusiveness and sensitivity towards all.
• To conduct seminars and workshops in collaboration with Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) on gender and women’s issues that would lead to awareness and empowerment.
• To create awareness on legal rights through the lectures by distinguished experts.
• To provide support and create an enabling environment for sharing problems and difficulties faced by the virtue of gender.
• To work in tandem with the ICC which addresses all complaints of sexual harassment within the university.

• Innovative/creative methods of imparting gender awareness.
• Regularly organized seminars and workshops by eminent industry experts, gender activists and academicians.
• Creating a safe environment on campus for girls.
• Encouraging young boys and girls to participate in discussions.
• Collaborations with other departments, societies and social outreach units in the university.