With 72% of total medals, women steal the show at Panjab University

Naina Mishra

Chandigarh, March 7

Women stole the spotlight during the 71st convocation of Panjab University (PU), securing an impressive 72% of the total medals and PhD degrees. Among the 1,093 students being honoured by the university, a substantial 794 are women.

For the first time in 45 years, the PU awarded the Doctorate of Science (DSc) during the convocation. Prof Manjit Kaur, renowned for her involvement in the discovery of the God Particle, was honoured with the DSc. Her entire research work, evaluated by three foreign professors, earned her the prestigious recognition. She is also among the most cited scientists at the PU.

Roopinder Kaur, 34, showcased incredible resilience, completing her PhD in Punjabi literature while juggling the responsibilities of motherhood. It took Kaur six years to complete her PhD, during which she gave birth to two children. Despite facing challenges, including the loss of her parents, she persisted and successfully defended her research on ‘Punjabi Pros’. She even breastfed her child during the convocation address, symbolising the strength of women in academia.

Dr Avneet Kaur from Jammu, accompanied by her husband and three-month-old daughter, got her PhD degree in pharmaceutical sciences. Her research focussed on developing nano therapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease. “My partner has been my greatest support during the PhD work as he helped in household chores and encouraged me to complete my degree,” Kaur added.

Dr Darshana Shonik, 75, proved that age is just a number. After cracking the UGC exam, she completed her PhD, becoming an inspiration for knowledge seekers. Despite getting married at the age of 18 and fulfilling family obligations, Dr Shonik pursued her passion for education, obtaining doctorate in Hindi and Sanskrit. She credited her success to the Almighty and her supportive family, especially her husband Ashwoni Kumar Shonik.