MAHENDERGARH, 20.01.26-The Department of Biotechnology, in collaboration with the Women Empowerment Cell and the Research and Development Cell of Central University of Haryana (CUH), Mahendergarh successfully organised a panel discussion titled 'From Barriers and Breakthroughs: Women Redefining Science' at CUH on Tuesday.

The programme was organised with the objective of highlighting the challenges faced by women in science and celebrating their transformative contributions, with a focus on access, opportunities, and recognition in scientific careers. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, research scholars, and postgraduate students. Prof. (Dr.) Tankeshwar Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Haryana, in his message to the participants, emphasized that scientific excellence transcends gender and that academic institutions must actively foster inclusive ecosystems to nurture women scientists. He appreciated the initiative of the Department of Biotechnology and the Women Empowerment Cell in promoting dialogue on access, opportunities, and recognition for women in science.

Dr. Vidyullatha Peddireddy, Convenor, Women Empowerment Cell, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the significance of creating inclusive academic spaces that empower women in science. Dr. Namrata Dhaka, Convenor of the programme, Dr. Inderjeet Kaur and Dr. Manisha Pandey, organizing secretaries ensured the seamless planning and execution of the event. The distinguished panel comprised eminent academicians and administrators, including Prof. Tapasya Srivastava, Professor and Head, Department of Genetics, University of Delhi (South Campus); Prof. Sunita Srivastava, Professor and Head, Department of Physics, CUH and President, IIC; Prof. Neelam Sangwan, Senior Professor and Director, Research and Development Cell, CUH; and Prof. Surender Singh, Professor and Director, IQAC, CUH.

The discussion opened with an insightful overview of the historical underrepresentation of women among Nobel laureates in science, underscoring that the absence was not due to lack of brilliance, but due to barriers in access, opportunities, and recognition. The panel deliberated extensively on structural challenges such as educational access, mentorship, mobility, research funding, career progression, and leadership visibility. The speakers stressed the importance of institutional support systems, policy interventions, mentorship networks, and societal change in enabling women to transition from systemic barriers to scientific breakthroughs. The interactive session with students and research scholars further enriched the discussion, allowing young scientists to engage directly with the panelists and seek guidance on academic and research careers. The programme also featured creative contests and live interaction sessions, encouraging student participation and reflection on gender equity in science.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Rupesh Deshmukh, who acknowledged the contributions of the panelists, organizing team, faculty members, and student coordinators. The programme reaffirmed CUH’s commitment to promoting inclusive excellence, gender equity, and a robust research culture within the University.