The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
PARALAKHEMUNDI, APRIL 2, 2025
“Make your voice transform the future of the nation,” urged Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, in his inspiring inaugural address at the third edition of the AIU National Women Student Parliament held at Centurion University on Wednesday. The event, marking the 100th anniversary of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), brought together over 200 female student leaders from more than 30 universities across the country, providing a significant platform for young women to engage in leadership, policy discussions, and social change.
Governor Dr. Kambhampati’s speech highlighted the critical role women play in shaping the future of India, underscoring that “equality, empowerment, and emancipation are not just ideas, but realities for every woman in India.” He celebrated the pioneering contributions of women throughout history and noted the ongoing revolution in fields such as business, law, sports, and governance, where women are now at the forefront. “The rise of women in leadership positions marks the changing landscape of our country,” he stated, encouraging the young leaders to embrace their power and influence to contribute to India’s continued progress.
The Governor also emphasized the importance of student elections in nurturing future leaders, expressing his belief that such experiences provide young people with the skills necessary to drive societal change. His message was clear: empowering women is essential for national growth and transformation.
The event was hosted by Centurion University in collaboration with AIU and featured prominent figures in education and governance.
Dr. Supriya Pattanayak, Vice-Chancellor of Centurion University, delivered a powerful address on the significance of empowering young women through leadership and dialogue. “Empowering women is not about protest; it’s about giving them the voice and power to shape the future,” she stated.
Prof. Sangram Keshari Swain, Convener of AIU, welcomed participants and set the stage for the event’s thought-provoking sessions. Dr. Mamata Rani Agarwal, Additional Secretary of AIU and a former Air Force pilot, emphasized the importance of platforms like the AIU Women’s Parliament in fostering young women leaders. “It’s not just about raising your voice, but about gaining the knowledge to make a difference,” she said.
Dr. G. S. N. Raju, Chancellor of Centurion University, shared his vision of fostering gender inclusivity in education and leadership, while Dr. Gitanjali Dash, Vice-Chancellor of Berhampur University, spoke about the full contribution of women in India’s development by 2047. Dr. Amiya Kumar Rath, Vice-Chancellor of Biju Patnaik University of Technology, Odisha, reinforced the idea that national change will only occur when the condition of women improves across all sectors.
The event was further graced by Dr. Muktikanta Mishra, President of Centurion University, and Prof. D. N. Rao, Vice President of Centurion University, both of whom reiterated the need for greater gender inclusivity in education and leadership.
As the inaugural session concluded, the distinguished guests were felicitated for their contributions to the event, and Dr. Anita Patra, Registrar of Centurion University, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all those who made the event possible.
The AIU National Women Student Parliament will continue with discussions and debates on socio-political issues, allowing young women leaders to present their perspectives and work towards meaningful resolutions aimed at empowering future women leaders. This platform remains a remarkable opportunity for young women to contribute their voices to shaping the future of the nation.
