Workshop on ‘Leadership skills for inclusive world’ culminates at Jammu University

Jammu, December 27: Two day workshop on ‘Leadership skills for an inclusive world: Challenges and Prospects’ organized by Disability Initiatives, University of Jammu in collaboration with the Office of Programme Coordinator, NSS, JU and ELFA International culminated successfully today. The workshop aimed at inculcating leadership skills among students with disabilities and NSS volunteers. Prof. Jasbir Singh, Rector Kishtwar Campus, University of Jammu was the chief guest at the valedictory session, while Ms. Shaheen Wahid, SSP South Jammu presided over the function. Both the guests motivated the students to contribute constructively towards creating an inclusive society. Ms. Shaheen Wahid in her interaction pointed out that it’s the mothers who are exemplary leaders and managers. She noted that disability is only a matter of perspective and one has to look beyond the bodily limitations. She also recommended the students to develop some hobbies like book reading, painting and other creative forms as a means of self expression and engagement. Ms. Wahid also motivated the youth to fight against the menace of drug abuse and help those around them involved in this social evil.

Prof. Jasbir Singh in his address talked about the need of nourishing innate qualities of those with special needs. He mentioned that when youth are sensitized about the needs and challenges of those with disabilities, it will bring about sustainable change in the society. He hoped that in future more such programs for more volunteers will be conducted in all colleges and educational institutions of J&K.

Prof. Sarika Manhas, Coordinator Disability Initiatives, JU in her interaction implored upon the students with disabilities to channelize their leadership acumen so that they are able to substantially contribute to the society. She expressed satisfaction about the skills the participants learned in the workshop, as these will help them to become excellent leaders and communicators.

Dr. Hema Gandotra, Programme Coordinator, NSS, JU, exhorted upon the youth to embark the journey of volunteerism with honesty, compassion and empathy. She asked them to lead the society with integrity and become the ambassadors of bringing change in the mindset of the society. She felt that through community service students can develop holistic personalities and contribute constructively to creation of a better society.

Mr. Mehran Khan, Founder and CEO of ELFA International and key resource person for the workshop. Dr. Neelam Choudhary, Faculty DD & OE, JU ably conducted the proceedings of the valedictory session.

More than 50 differently abled students and NSS volunteers learned leadership skills through interactive sessions spread across the two days of the workshop.