The 71st convocation at Panjab university on 7th March 2024, turned into a full-on celebration of women’s achievements, just a day prior to International Women’s Day. Amazing ladies of the university stole the show by raking 72% of all medals and PhD degrees awarded during the event.
Among the honoured 1,093 students, 794 were women. This incredible feat is a testament to the dedication and hardwork of female students at PU.
In 45 years of PU’s history, PU awarded the prestigious Doctor of Science degree during the convocation, which was received by no other than incredible Prof. Manjit Kaur. She had played a significant role in the discovery of the Higgs Boson, also known as the “God Particle”. Her dedication to science is evident in the fact that her entire research work was evaluated by a panel of three international professors, ultimately earning her this well-deserved recognition. She is also the most cited researcher at PU.
Roopinder Kaur, 34, also showcased the true power of women. She completed her PhD in Punjabi literature while fulfilling the demands of motherhood. It took 6 years for her to finish her PhD, and during that time she also birthed two beautiful children. Despite facing several challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of her parents, Roopernder thrived and successfully defended her research on ‘Punjabi Pros’. She even breastfed her child during the convocation address, sending a powerful message about the strength and dedication of women in academia.
DR. Avneet kaur, a PhD graduate in pharmaceutical sciences from Jammu, seemed to bring her own cheering section to the convocation- her husband and their adorable 3-month- old daughter. Dr. Kaur’s research in development of nanotherapeutics to combat Alzheimer’s disease holds immense potential against the fight with this devastating illness.
Dr. Avneet Kaur credited her husband for being her rock throughout her PhD journey. She stated,”My partner has been my greatest support during the PhD work as he helped in household chores and encouraged me to complete my degree.”
“Age is just a number”, if you do not believe that meet Dr. Darshana Shonik, a magnificent 75 year old, who is a living proof of that statement. After cracking the UGC, she went on to complete her PhD, and became an inspiration for the learners everywhere.
Even after being married at the young age of 18, she never let her family obligations dim her passion for pursuing further education. She ultimately obtained her doctorate in Hindi and Sanskrit. She credited her success to the almighty and ever-supportive family with a special shout-out to her husband, Ashwoni Kumar Shonik.
Celebration of these achievements couldn’t have come at a better time. The stories of these women’s dedication, resilience and groundbreaking research perfectly embody the spirit of International Women’s Day. These ladies are perfect examples of women empowerment. While shattering glass ceilings, pushing boundaries and inspiring future generations of scholars, these ladies have proved that no target is unachievable once you set your mind to it.
